While bankruptcy is a powerful tool that can help you take control of your finances, your decision to file will have an impact on other areas of your life, such as renting an apartment. Your bankruptcy history will likely affect your ability to secure rental housing. Below are three important things to know about renting an apartment after filing bankruptcy.

Tips for Renting an Apartment After Bankruptcy

1. Any Prospective Landlord Will Be Able to See If You've Filed for Bankruptcy

For the vast majority of rental units, landlords will run a rental history and credit check on interested applicants. Your bankruptcy will show up on your credit report for 10 years, and if back-rent was included in your bankruptcy discharge, your previous landlord could give you a less-than-stellar reference. Don't try to conceal your bankruptcy or the debts it eliminated; your landlord can easily find out.

2. A Bankruptcy Doesn't Guarantee Disapproval

If you've filed for bankruptcy, you can still be find adequate rental housing. While some landlords want to steer clear of tenants with spotty financial histories, most are interested in renting their units and maintaining full capacities. These landlords will typically allow a tenant to move in for an additional security deposit. While it might seem like an obstacle, this protects both you and your landlord should you encounter future financial challenges.

3. Do Everything Possible to Maintain Good Credit in the Wake of Your Bankruptcy

Whether you filed eight days or eight years ago, it's imperative you take proactive steps to strengthen and rebuild your post-bankruptcy credit. This is the surest way to appeal to prospective landlords. Taking out a secured or low-limit credit card and paying it off every month is a smart way to start—just be aware of interest rates and finance charges.

Bankruptcy lawyer Mark Briden of Mark Briden Law is here to help you make sense of the debt relief process. Since 1987, he has been representing clients throughout the Redding, California, area and providing them with affordable payment plans. Call (530) 222-1664 or visit his firm's website to arrange a free consultation, which can be conducted either in person or over the phone.