In our last library article, we discussed how declaring bankruptcy will often have a significant and adverse effect on your credit score – but also how being in debt and missing payments can badly harm your credit history. If you decide to petition for bankruptcy in California, you should know that there are several steps you can take after filing that can help get your credit score back on track quickly:
• Pay all of your bills on time. It’s simple and it works. Keep your balances low and try to make
more than minimum payments. Close accounts that you don’t use.
• Get a new credit card and use it wisely. Only make small purchases on your card and be sure to pay off the entire
balance each month. If you are unable to get approved for an unsecured
card, start with a secured card for the first year or two.
• Make a budget. Making a budget and following it will ensure that you do not find yourself
without funds to make monthly payments. This is a smart move even if you
declared bankruptcy because of medical bills, divorce, or another life
emergency.
• Take out a small loan. Again, you can improve your score by proving that you are now trustworthy
and responsible when it comes to lending money. Consider a small loan,
such as a car loan, that you are positive you can pay considering your
income, other expenses, and even emergency situations.
• Build an emergency fund. Most people with debt issues aren’t irresponsible, they simply weren’t
prepared for an emergency. This time, be ready for a death in the family,
a job loss, or a medical issue by having a savings account just for such issues.
• Keep an eye on your credit report. Credit reports can have mistakes. Make sure you know which cards you have
open, what your credit report is listing, and that all of your accounts
are accurate.
If you are smart with your credit and cautious with your money in the years
after a bankruptcy, you can repair your damaged credit report significantly
in just a few years – and far before the ten years it takes for
your bankruptcy to drop off of your credit history officially. To learn
more about bankruptcy and your credit score, talk to
Chula Vista bankruptcy attorney Kerry Denton today by calling 888-478-0168.