Establishing Your Credit After Bankruptcy
Excessive credit card balances, unexpected medical bills, loss of employment or a divorce can leave personal bankruptcy as the only option. Once the decision is made to file bankruptcy, the heavy weight of debt is lifted off your back.
For more information about the pros and cons of filing bankruptcy contact the bankruptcy attorneys at LegalHelpers.com. LegalHelpers has helped thousands of people eliminate millions of dollars of debt and they can help you too.
So, what happens after bankruptcy? The short answer is that you must begin to rebuild your credit. Beware the traps of getting mixed up in debt once again.
Make sure all past debts have been removed from your credit report. Occasionally, some small debts may be overlooked.
Another good idea is to get a secured credit card. A secured credit card is one where you keep a certain amount in the bank and borrow against it. Make sure it has a low interest rate and a low annual fee. Paying the advancement back in two months will reflect positively on your credit report.
If you need to make a major purchase like a house or car, look for “bankruptcy friendly” lenders. Put down as large a down payment as you can afford and finance the rest. A new car will depreciate two years after purchase. Buying used will protect you against this.
The best way to avoid future debt troubles is to live within your means. Your payments on credit cards should never be more than 20 per cent of your expendable income. In this case, expendable income means what is left after you pay for all your necessities.
You can ask your bankruptcy attorney for additional bankruptcy resources. You may find a credit counseling or debt education class helpful. Remember, there are resources available to help you to financial freedom.