What could prevent a debtor from receiving a discharge in bankruptcy?

A debtor could be prevented from receiving a discharge in bankruptcy due to failure to keep adequate records. In bankruptcy proceedings, particularly under Chapter 7 and Chapter 13, a debtor is required to provide a full disclosure of their financial situation. This includes detailed records of income, assets, liabilities, and expenses. If a debtor is unable to provide the necessary documentation or fails to keep appropriate financial records, the bankruptcy court may deem that the debtor has not met their obligation to cooperate fully in the bankruptcy process. This lack of adequate records can raise doubts about the honesty and completeness of the debtor's disclosures, which is critical for granting a discharge of debts.

The other options, while relevant to bankruptcy, do not carry the same weight in preventing a discharge. For example, obtaining new credit post-filing does not inherently prevent discharge; it may raise questions about the debtor's financial management but is not a direct cause for denial. Making payments on time is typically seen as a positive behavior, and disclosing all assets is essential for the proceedings, likely contributing positively to the outcome.