Sunday, October 18, 2009

How To Rebuild Credit After Filing Bankruptcy

By Fred Jones

Filing for bankruptcy is a big step in itself. While debt relief options can help avoid bankruptcy, filing is sometimes the only option available. Delinquent credit cards, home foreclosures, and outstanding hospital bills are just a few situations that can lead one to file bankruptcy. While bankruptcy can relieve a good part of one's debts, its the credit report that takes the big hit. Common knowledge is that filing for bankruptcy severely hurts a persons credit score and for even as long as seven years. Despite this notion though, its possible one can emerge from bankruptcy with a decent credit score.

The key to is establishing a plan for rebuilding credit, diligently following it, and being responsible along the way. Going through bankruptcy is not an easy process, but the lessons learned through it can put a person on the road to financial freedom via new-found responsibility.

The 1st step in rebuilding credit is usually the most difficult since there are many places to start. Below are some successful strategies that can be employed to rebuild credit. The 1st step in rebuilding is to secure new credit and use it " intelligently. There are a number of recommended techniques that can be employed to start building a positive credit history. The first option is applying for a secured credit card. These credit cards maximize your credit limit at the amount of money you have deposited in the bank. They are typically easier to get than unsecured (or traditional) credit cards. Before applying for a secured credit card, verify the annual fee is acceptable and that the company reports directly to the major credit bureaus. This will allow you "as you make payments" to establish a steady payment history.

Another good options is getting an installment loan. These loan help rebuild credit as well. An installment loan has a fixed payment each cycle and a term for repaying the debt. Typical types of installment loans are auto loans and mortgage loans. By paying each month, you can show your credit worthiness and rebuild a history of on time payments. Student loans can also serve as an installment loan, and paying each month will help to build a person's credit score. Securing an installment loan after bankruptcy is not without its ill-effects. Interest rates will more than likely be high. However, after a year or two of making payments on time, a person may be able to refinance to a lower rate. In the long-term, the responsible use of installment loans will help a person secure better loan rates and terms.

A 3rd strategy for rebuilding good credit is analyzing a persons credit report. Often there are times when errors exist in a credit report which could reflect negatively on a credit score. Even having filed bankruptcy, a person may find that some debts included show as past due or still open on the report. It is important to contact the credit bureaus and dispute this information. Not only do negative items reduce a credit score, but can prevent one from securing other forms of credit in the future. Taking the time necessary to review the report(s) and correct items can save thousands of dollars over time.

During the time that it takes for a person to emerge from bankruptcy filing, it is good to remember that rebuilding credit is not an overnight situation. It does takes time and every payment must be paid on time, all the time in order to rebuild good history. Establishing good spending practices and a realistic budget will help a person navigate towards a successful future. In the end, good to excellent credit is attainable, after filing bankruptcy, that will allow a person to take full advantage of excellent credit terms and conditions. - 30462

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