Credit Repair After Bankruptcy: What You Need to Know

Bankruptcy can feel like the end of the road—but it doesn’t have to be. While it’s true that bankruptcy can significantly affect your credit, it also gives you a chance to hit reset. At Credit Done Right, we’ve helped many people rebuild strong, healthy credit after bankruptcy—and you can too.

Here’s everything you need to know about repairing your credit after filing for bankruptcy.

How Bankruptcy Affects Your Credit

Filing for bankruptcy has a major impact on your credit score and can remain on your credit report for:

  • Chapter 7: Up to 10 years

  • Chapter 13: Up to 7 years

During that time, you may find it more difficult to qualify for loans, rent housing, or get approved for credit cards—but that doesn’t mean you’re stuck. With the right steps, you can rebuild your credit and regain financial stability.

Step 1: Review Your Credit Reports

After bankruptcy, it’s important to make sure your credit reports are accurate. Check that:

  • Debts included in the bankruptcy are marked as “discharged” or “included in bankruptcy”

  • Accounts not included in the filing are still reported properly

  • There are no duplicate or incorrect listings

You can get your reports for free from all three bureaus at AnnualCreditReport.com.

Step 2: Start Rebuilding Immediately

The sooner you begin rebuilding, the faster your score can improve. Some smart ways to start:

  • Get a secured credit card – These require a cash deposit and help build new positive credit.

  • Apply for a credit-builder loan – These small loans are specifically designed to help improve your credit score over time.

  • Become an authorized user – Ask a trusted family member to add you to their credit card (you don’t even need to use it).

  • Always pay on time – Even one late payment can set back your progress.

Step 3: Keep Your Balances Low

As you rebuild credit, your utilization ratio—how much credit you’re using compared to your limit—is extremely important. Try to keep your usage below 30% of your available credit at all times.

Pro tip: Even if you pay in full every month, using a high percentage of your limit during the month can hurt your score if it reports before you pay.

Step 4: Be Patient and Consistent

Rebuilding credit after bankruptcy takes time. It won’t happen overnight, but every on-time payment and every positive account helps. Many people see credit improvements in just 6–12 months, with major gains over 1–2 years.

Stick to the basics:

  • Pay all bills on time

  • Keep balances low

  • Avoid unnecessary new debt

  • Monitor your progress

How Credit Done Right Can Help

We specialize in helping clients navigate credit repair after bankruptcy. Our team can:

  • Review your credit reports for errors or incomplete bankruptcy updates

  • Dispute inaccurate information with the credit bureaus

  • Provide personalized advice on rebuilding your credit

  • Help you create a long-term strategy for financial recovery

You don’t have to go it alone.

Life After Bankruptcy Is Possible

Bankruptcy is a major financial event—but it’s also a fresh start. With the right support and strategy, you can come back stronger and more financially confident than ever.

Contact Credit Done Right today for a free consultation. We’ll help you build a path to better credit—no matter where you’re starting from.

Megan Coleman