debt relief

Bankruptcy & Immigration Status

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Recently a few different people have asked me how a potential bankruptcy case could affect their immigration status.


According to bankruptcy law, the government is prohibited from discriminating against someone solely based on their filing for bankruptcy, as stated in 11 U.S.C. § 525(a). However, it is important to note that there could be consequences in an immigration case if it is discovered that false information was provided or if relevant details were omitted on the bankruptcy paperwork.


It is crucial to be honest and transparent throughout the bankruptcy process, ensuring that all required information is accurately disclosed. Failure to do so may lead to denial of the bankruptcy discharge,
criminal repercussions, and complications in an immigration case, as it could be perceived as a misrepresentation or an attempt to conceal relevant financial information.


If you are considering bankruptcy and have concerns about its potential impact on your green card or immigration status, I strongly recommend consulting with an experienced immigration attorney. They will be able to provide you with personalized guidance based on your specific circumstances and help you navigate through any potential challenges.


Should you have any further questions about bankruptcy or dealing with your creditors, please do not hesitate to reach out. Our office specializes in bankruptcy to assist you. For more information go to ravosalaw.com.

This is only intended to be information and does not constitute legal advice, nor does it create any attorney-client relationship with the firm.



Bankruptcy & Credit Scores

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Though it may go without saying, filing for bankruptcy is a big decision. And while it can wipe away crippling debts, it can also impact the trajectory of one’s financial future. That said, if you or someone you know is considering filing, you may have questions about what will happen to your credit score post-bankruptcy. 

I thought I’d share some insights on some of my clients’ most frequently asked questions:

How does bankruptcy affect my credit score?

Once you file for bankruptcy, the credit bureau will be notified, and your FICO score will adjust. According to debt.org, a person with an average 680 score will lose between 130 and 150 points in bankruptcy; someone with an above-average 780 score could see their score plummet by as many as 240 points. 

Conversely, if your score prior to filing bankruptcy was in the 400 to 500 range, you may see a slight boost (50 points or so) as the filing washes away significant debts from your record.

How long will bankruptcy be on my record? 

Bankruptcy will remain on your credit report for 7 to 10 years, depending on how you choose to file. A chapter 13 bankruptcy, which requires partial debt repayment, lingers for seven years, whereas a chapter 7 bankruptcy remains for a decade.

How can I rebuild my credit score?

There’s a light at the end of the tunnel. It is possible to rebuild your credit. Here are a few ways to start boosting that number back up:

  • Pay all bills on time. Set up payment reminders and consider autopay services. Make multiple payments per month as you’re able, and keep a close eye on your budget.
  • After bankruptcy focus on building savings, to help cover emergency expenses.
  • Once you have built savings and have a comfortable budget, apply for new credit in small doses. Do that byopening a secured credit card, getting a credit builder loan, or taking out a small loan from a reputable lender. Be careful to fully understand the terms of any new credit account.
  • Dispute inaccuracies on your credit reports, and make sure accounts are accurately reported as discharged after the bankruptcy.
  • Report positive payment history to the credit bureau. Doing so will show stability and prove your creditworthiness over time. Monthly payments like rent, utilities, and cell phone may qualify. Learn more about adding positive information to your report here. 

If you have any questions about how your credit score will be affected by bankruptcy or what your options are, please reach out. As always, we are here to help.

Visit ravosalawoffices.com for all of the ways to contact us today.