 TITLE: How Does Filing Bankruptcy Affect Your Credit? CONTENT: Think About the Long Term\n-------------------------\nWhen you need debt relief, it's natural to focus mostly on what bankruptcy, debt settlement or any other alternative can do for you right now. But because each of these options can affect your credit score and financial situation, it's crucial that you take the time to research every course of action and consider both the short- and long-term effects of each.\nBefore you go through with one of them, consider consulting with a credit counselor or bankruptcy attorney to get an objective, expert opinion. Credit counselors generally don't charge for this service, and many bankruptcy attorneys offer free consultations as well.\nBetween your own research and expert advice, you'll have a better chance of choosing the correct path forward. END