In today’s unfortunate economic circumstances, many people are finding it necessary to declare bankruptcy. If you are one of these people, you might feel hopeless, like there is no hope for your financial future; however, this is not necessarily the case. Although, the road to bankruptcy recovery is not easy or fast, it is possible. The following advice may be beneficial for you as you take steps to get your finances in order after bankruptcy.
Once you file for bankruptcy, the first thing to do is contact your creditors because there are certain assets that are non-exempt from bankruptcy including cash and certificates of deposits. These non-exempt assets will be required to be returned to the court-appointed trustee during your case. However, this is just one part of the long bankruptcy process, and there is a long road to recovery in the future.
Do not be surprised if you find it tough to get a loan for the next few years, because most lenders out there are most likely skeptical about lending to someone who has recently filed for bankruptcy. Most people with a bankruptcy on their record will not be able to qualify for a home or car loan. However, if they do manage to qualify for a basic loan or a credit card, typically the interest rate will be extremely high.
Although, it may seem hopeless, what you do after bankruptcy can make the difference in your credit and your financial future; so, try your best to remain positive. A positive attitude will go a long way in a bankruptcy situation, even though you may not think so. There is so much truth to the theory, “the power of positive thinking,” so apply the theory to your situation and use it to your advantage.
For those that own cars, you will obviously still need them to get around, therefore talk with your car lender about signing a reaffirmation agreement. This agreement specifies your willingness to continue making payments and to act in good faith, thus allowing you to keep the vehicle. Remember, however, that if you do not act in good faith, your vehicle could be repossessed and sold and you will be liable for any deficiency.
One of the most important parts of recovery after bankruptcy will be establishing new lines of credit, which will be difficult given the bankruptcy on your record. Most likely traditional banks will not approve you, however there is a chance that they will allow you to deposit money into an account and give you a credit card attached to that card, also known as a secured credit card. This may not seem like the best option given that you recently filed for bankruptcy and money is tight, however, it is necessary to establish some sort of credit.
Besides working to build better credit for the future, you will also want to access your credit report and make sure that it is clean. There are credit bureaus – Equifax, Experian, and Trans Union – that you can check with to make sure that your debts have been eliminated due to bankruptcy. If the reports do not show this, talk to the bureaus and get them updated.
While you are seeking to re-establish your credit, it is important to resist co-signing for anyone. Although co-signing may seem harmless, if the loan goes bad, it will be on your record for awhile and their will be a judgment against you, especially because of the bankruptcy on your record. When it comes down to it, the risk is simply not worth it, even if you think it will help you build your credit.
Also, when it comes to credit cards, do not carry a balance if you do not have to. Many people assume that a credit card balance is good for your credit, however it is not smart for your financial future because you never know what financial emergencies could come up and get in the way of your ability to make payments. Therefore, if you can, pay the balance in full.
Also, after you have filed for bankruptcy, do not be surprised if people ask you about it. There are a lot of reasons people file for bankruptcy, some crazier than others, and you want to make sure that the people you are talking with understand why you had to file for bankruptcy. Therefore, prepare your story. This does not mean you make one up, rather that you know the details you will share with people to help them understand why you had to file for bankruptcy in the first place.
Remember, life happens, and if for you bankruptcy is a part of that, oh well. Be positive and move forward. Recovery is a process, but it is possible.