Chapter 7 Bankruptcy - Rebuilding After the Fact

When it comes to Chapter 7 bankruptcy, the decision to file is a big one. The outcome of having all of your debt discharged can be powerful, though. Many people are facing a financial hole right now, due to economic conditions or limitations on being able to work. When this happens, it often restricts the ability of the individual to pay his or her debts. Over time, this debt burden can tax a person so much so that he or she is forced to make a decision. Many times, the best decision is to file Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

Now What?
Once you file it, and you receive a discharge, it is time to work to rebuild your financial future. You no longer are legally responsible for repaying your debts. None of the lenders listed on your discharge can file a claim against you. You may no longer have to worry about paying those debts, but you do have to rebuild your credit and your financial health. How can you rebuild your finances after filing Chapter 7 bankruptcy?

• Put in place a budget first. This is the one thing you need to ensure. Give yourself enough money to spend, but ensure that you are living on a cash- only basis. This allows you to live within your means to avoid financial struggles later.

• Build your savings. One of the most frequent problems people have is not having a savings account to go to when they need to borrow. When this happens, you may struggle to do anything but to turn to credit. Save some of your money.

• Use credit. After Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you will have lenders approach you to offer new credit offers within six months to a year. However, these will be the most expensive offers you get. It is often necessary to use secured cards and high interest rate cards to rebuild a stronger credit score. That way, you can qualify for lower rates down the road.

• Always only use as much credit as you can afford to pay off within a month. This cuts the cost of using it significantly.

• Work to make payments on your utilities on time. If you own a home or have a car loan, be sure to make on time payments for these things, too. That will help you to show future lenders that you are planning to make wise credit decisions moving forward.

Know your limits, too. Once you receive a discharge from your Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you are free to rebuild your credit any way you want to. However, your credit score will be very low. It will take time and positive credit action to help you to rebuild. Do plan to invest in making wise decisions going forward to avoid a financial mishap from occurring again.