Chris D. Hefty
November 9, 2020
Many times I am asked the question, "How long does bankruptcy stay on your credit report?" On average a Chapter 7 will remain on your credit report for ten years and a Chapter 13 for seven years. However, bankruptcy is not necessarily a credit death sentence. With computer data collection by credit reporting agencies, the bankruptcy information on your credit report will remain listed depending on the agency's policies. You can contact the credit reporting agency to find out what their policies are and how to remove the bankruptcy information. Sometimes, the information can improve your credit.
As a bankruptcy attorney, I use a credit report that displays my clients' current credit scores, along with an estimate of what their scores will be in approximately one year after bankruptcy. In most cases, their scores increase. The rare exception is the client who has been current on his or her payments but is simply overwhelmed with debt. The majority, however, are in default on all or most of their debts when they file for bankruptcy. The fundamental reason bankruptcy raises your credit score is that it lowers your debt-to-income ratio.
To calculate your debt-to-income ratio, you divide your debt payments by your gross monthly income. The lower your debt-to-income ratio, the more willing creditors are to lend you money. Since all or most of your debts are discharged, after bankruptcy, you have more disposable income to pay new debts. The fact that bankruptcy can improve your credit may explain why bankruptcy filers often get offers for credit cards and car loans within weeks after their cases are closed.
Credit is not indicative of your character or worth. It is simply a measure of your ability to borrow money. Bankruptcy is intended to give debtors a fresh start by freeing them from the burdens of debt. Thus, it puts them in a better financial position.
To find out if bankruptcy is the correct option for you contact The Law Office of Chris D. Hefty.