While you realize that bankruptcy is the most favorable option for your financial health, you may still feel uneasy about filing. You want to put it all behind you and rebuild your financial house, and you know working on your credit score is a good place to start.
You must have a sound strategy for repairing your credit after bankruptcy. Without a solid plan, it may take longer than necessary for you to get back on solid financial ground.
Check your credit report and score
First, check your current credit score and report to understand how much work you must do. While your bankruptcy and negative information show up on your report, there could be inaccurate or outdated information. If there is, dispute the errors and have them removed from your score.
Create a budget
Now is an ideal time to either start budgeting or create a post-bankruptcy budget. If you completed pre-discharge credit counseling, you may have learned how to budget. Put what you learned to use for your next financial chapter in life. The right budget helps you know how much money comes in and goes out every month, which can help prevent another financial disaster. Also, making on-time payments improves your credit score.
Improve your financial profile
Right now, you must show lenders that you are not a risky borrower. Do so by applying for a secured credit card, secured loan or co-signed credit card. You could also become an authorized user on another person’s credit card. Each option helps you to secure credit and boost your score.
Exercise patience when re-establishing your credit after bankruptcy. It may take more time than you like to get where you want to be, but hard work and diligence can pay you back more than you realize.
