You recently filed for Chapter 7, 11 or even 13 bankruptcy, and you have made it to the point where all of your debt has finally been discharged. You’re now ready to begin your life after bankruptcy and are asking yourself the question, “what do I do next?” It’s essential to understand what happens when you file for bankruptcy and how it can be considered a fresh start.
Once you have grasped the basics of how bankruptcy has affected you, it is time to formulate your plan moving forward. This will ensure that you are fully utilizing the fresh start bankruptcy has given you. Read more to discover tips on how to succeed in life after bankruptcy.
Gathering Information and Reviewing Your Finances
Your finances before bankruptcy become a lot different after bankruptcy, as debt is discharged and a fresh start can begin. It is vital to review and better understand the state of your finances, along with your current financial health, especially before you start planning for the future. You can do this by gathering and reviewing all of your bankruptcy paperwork; be sure to file it for future reference. You may also want to consider your current income and expenses to help you prepare for budgeting.
Budgeting for the Future
The next step in your fresh start bankruptcy process is to create a budget for yourself. This will help you be sure to stay on top of your finances. A great way to ensure you are correctly budgeting for the future is to seek help from a financial advisor or credit counselor. They can assist you in creating a personalized post-bankruptcy budget that will work for you.
The Emergency Fund
Along with your budget, saving a little money on the side is a great way to ensure your financial success for the future. The best way to do this is by creating an emergency fund for yourself. An emergency fund allows you to have money put aside that can be used towards unexpected expenses and help you avoid any future debt.
Rebuilding Your Credit Score
One piece of information that is vital to review post-bankruptcy is your current credit report. This will give you insight into the state of your credit history and score. You will now have the opportunity to dispute any misinformation that may appear on your credit report. Once you have reviewed and cleaned up your credit history, it is time for you to begin rebuilding your credit score. There are a variety of ways to start rebuilding your credit, such as through a secured credit card or co-signed loans. These are ways you can begin showing creditors that you are no longer a risky borrower.
As you can see, bankruptcy can give you a fresh start to your financial life, and by following the right steps, there is always a possibility for life after bankruptcy. I have over 37 years of experience as a Burlington bankruptcy Lawyer. Let me help guide you through the bankruptcy process. Contact my office today to schedule a consultation. Life after bankruptcy starts here!
