If you’ve recently filed bankruptcy, and you’ve received your bankruptcy discharge, you’ll find yourself in a different financial world. Fortunately, there are plenty of things you can do to start off on the right foot. In this blog, we’re going to go over good steps you can take to maintain financial security in your future.
Credit Score
You can check your credit score for free through several different online sources. Check your credit score as soon as your bankruptcy is settled, and see what you’re working with. Remember it can take years to rebuild your credit – it’ll be good to know where you stand.
Fulfill Payments to Unsettled Debts
Pay off debts that weren’t erased in your bankruptcy filing. Since these debts will stick with you until they’re paid off, you’ll want to take care of them as soon as possible. Avoid costly interest rates… pay off those debts!
Rebuild That Credit
Building credit can involve all sorts of financial tactics. Once you’re beyond bankruptcy, you’ll want to build your credit as quickly as possible to allow for future financial freedom. Consider picking up a “secured credit card.” These cards are connected to a savings account that you’ll have to put money into prior to using the card. Since the credit account holds the savings account as collateral, secured credit cards are still available for borrowers with poor credit. Lenders often don’t require a credit check when they issue a secured credit card.
Pay On Time
Whether it’s a home payment, car payment, or any payment, you’ll want to pay on time. Late payments leave a sour mark on your credit history, and you’ll further hinder your credit score.
Save
If you can, you should save. Putting away money can keep your head above water down the line. Save money as an emergency fund. Putting that money aside could save you from slipping into debt in the future.
Build A Retirement Plan
Again, if you can, you should save. If you’ve got a job that provides any excess funds, set up a retirement account that pulls money directly from your paycheck. Putting money away can make life more comfortable in the future.