 TITLE: How Does Filing Bankruptcy Affect Your Credit? CONTENT: How to Rebuild Credit After a Bankruptcy\n----------------------------------------\nWhile a bankruptcy will remain on your credit report for seven or 10 years, that doesn't mean your credit score can't improve during that time. As you add new positive information to your credit report, you can rebuild your credit score.\nHere are a few things you can do to make it happen:\n*   **Monitor your credit.** It's crucial that you check your credit score and credit report frequently. Not only does this help you keep track of your progress, but it also provides you with the information you need to address potential issues that could further damage your credit score.\n*   **Pay your bills on time.** Make it a goal to pay all bills on time going forward to avoid late payments. Remember, your payment history is the most influential credit score component, so it's a top priority.\n*   **Stick to a budget.** It's important to avoid debt that could potentially destroy all the work you've done so far. To do this, create a budget and stick to it. Try to avoid overspending and apply for credit only when absolutely necessary.\n*   **Consider a secured credit card.** A secured credit card functions similarly to a regular credit card, but requires an upfront security deposit as collateral for your credit line. As you use the card regularly, keep your balance low relative to your credit limit and pay your bill on time every month, you'll be able to establish some positive history on your credit report. Plus, if you pay your balance in full every month, you can do all of this without paying a dime in interest.\nAs you take these steps to establish good credit behaviors, you'll be able to slowly recover from the impact of your bankruptcy. END