How Long?

[LoserBoy]

How long after filing CH7 can you really begin to get new credit established. Irresponsibility is not my problem, circumstances are. I'll be employed again (I assume) and will be back on track, but how long do I really have to wait? Isn't using credit part of what builds credit?

Also, is it a good idea to try to keep a credit card ($0 balance) through the proceedings? I have a BOA card that I've never used and BOA is where my mortgage is --which I will be reaffirming. Will they play ball with me? And if so, should I?

[BassBoy]

It is wise to wait until after your discharge to get new credit (or loans). I will point out that time is the best healer, so if you can go a while without the CC's, it's okay to do so.

When you file BK, it is not wise to incurr any new debt while in active BK. You shouldn't be acquiring any new loans or CC's or using any CC's as well. As for the BoA CC, creditors can (and will probably) close the account once they are aware of your BK.