Posted on June 1, 2009 at 12:40 am Would it matter to my employers if I filed for bankruptcy in the past? I filed for that when i was 18 and got discharged just recently. I know it's a thing of the past but I'm worried that i might not get a job because of that.

Posted on June 1, 2009 at 12:57 am Luckyluckylucky, most employers are unfortunately abt hiring individuals with a history of filing for bankruptcy. Most of them do so because of their "history" of being financially irresponsible. Don't quote me on this, but banks and credit unions are typically very stringent on these matters, which makes sense because they are, after all, financial institutions.

Posted on June 1, 2009 at 12:59 am The Bankruptcy Code 11 U.S.C. sec. 525 (b) states that no private employer may terminate or discriminate against an individual who is or has been in bankruptcy or is associated with an individual who is/was in bankruptcy.Ultimately though,  the decision to hire you or not is in your future employer's discretion.

Posted on June 1, 2009 at 1:49 am Luckyluckylucky, if I may ask, how did you file for bankruptcy at the age of 18? Were you that hard up on your debts back then?

Posted on June 1, 2009 at 3:43 pm To me it is a matter of perception, and the bottom line is humans are naturally judgemental so it may have an adverse effect on the interviewing process. It is also very difficult to prove that there was descrimination involved in a company's hiring process. Just know that because Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 Bankruptcy both stay on your public records for 20 years any potential employer could find that out if they really wanted to. For most employers, though, finding that out is much easier. In an employment background check, the question, "Have you ever filed bankruptcy?" often appears. If you have, you must answer "Yes" or else you have committed a felony.

Posted on June 1, 2009 at 10:35 pm Moving forward, after that bankruptcy experience, I wonder if you have taken steps to improve your credit If not, here are some, hopefully, helpful tips for you:1. Never ever be late on your payments again. After a bankruptcy, improving your payment history is one of the most positive step that you can take. If you are living a hectic lifestyle, and to avoid missing payment, try setting up automatic payments from your bank account.2. Monitor your credit report. Obtain a copy every year and look out for errors and then take steps in correcting them, if you find any.3. Try to apply for a credit card. Your chances maybe low and what you may get are the ones with very low spending limits with very high interests...but that should be a positive start.4. Get a secured credit card (it requires you to deposit money that is equivalent to your spending limit)--if the usual credit card is still hard to obtain. After a year or two, if you are able to pay your balance faithfully every month, with this secured card, you should be able to get a regular credit card. 5. Take budgeting seriously and avoid filing bankruptcy again.