BANKRUPTCY

***HOW TO SURVIVE BANKRUPTCY***

Chances are, more people will file for bankruptcy this year than any other year in U.S. history. The process can get ugly, so if you're considering it, here's some advice on how to get through a bankruptcy filing and start rebuilding for the future . . .

#1.). TALK TO EXPERTS. Before you do anything, get some advice. You're required to go through credit counseling before you file for bankruptcy. You can meet with a counselor in person, or in most cases, you can do it over the phone for free.

To find an expert in your area, check out the National Foundation for Credit Counselors at www.NFCC.org. Also, groups like Debtors Anonymous can help you address your bad spending habits. With their help, you might even be able to avoid bankruptcy altogether.

#2.) ADDRESS YOUR MISTAKES. If you're filing for bankruptcy, chances are you made some BIG ONES. After you file, you won't have any credit to fall back on, so it's important to address your bad habits and rid yourself of them as soon as possible.

#3.) START REBUILDING. Bankruptcy is tough, but life goes on. So start applying for credit again. You won't be approved for a while, and when you are, your interest rates will be through the roof. But eventually, you'll need credit to buy a computer, a car, or a home.

So don't bury your head in the sand and resolve that credit cards are evil. Credit isn't the problem. Overspending is.

#4.) DON'T DO IT AGAIN. Learn to make better financial decisions and stay within your budget. Use a computer program like Quicken, or pick up some self-help books. Filing for bankruptcy the second time is even harder . . . so make sure you never have to do it again.(AskMen.com)