So if you have already filed a bankruptcy case and received a discharge – Congratulations! The goal of bankruptcy is to receive your bankruptcy discharge at the end of your Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 case. I am sure you are anxious to get a fresh start, but what should you do next?
First may I suggest you look at the book: LIFE AFTER BANKRUPTCY: The Game Plan to Rebuild, Restore and Renew your Credit after Bankruptcy. Of course I am partial to this book since I put so much time into writing it. It will walk you through the steps to get the maximum benefit of your bankruptcy discharge. It is also now available on Amazon.
Here is another step you can take to rebuild your credit, ensure your financial future, and make sure you get the most from your new debt-free status:
KEEP YOUR BANKRUPTCY DOCUMENTS!
Keep copies of your bankruptcy paperwork. It is important to keep copies of your bankruptcy petition, schedules, and order of discharge for your records. You can retrieve these documents from the court if you lose them. However, it will cost you and can be a bit of a hassle.
Why should you keep your paperwork?
- Although it does not happen every day, creditors have been known to try to collect on debts discharged in bankruptcy. If any creditors attempt to collect after your bankruptcy so you can use your paperwork to correct any issues with the creditor and correct your credit report.
How long should you keep your bankruptcy documents?
- I advise my clients to keep copies of their petition, schedules, discharge, and related documents with their permanent records. (At the Utah Bankruptcy Guy we provide our clients with PDFs, which they can store and print as necessary.) You may need a certified copy of the case documents if you are applying for a professional license in some states. In that case, you can obtain a certified copy from the bankruptcy court for a fee.