After a successful bankruptcy filing, debtors have a fresh start in their financial life. No more harassing phone calls, nasty letters, and the relentless stress of where to find the funds to meet your obligations. If you need to look for a new job after you’ve filed for bankruptcy and fear the effect that filing for bankruptcy may have on your chances of being hired, take heart. The law continues to provide you with the protection you need to get your life back in order.

Be sincere and sincere

Employers cannot legally ask you in an interview whether or not you have filed for bankruptcy. Even if you are applying for a cash handling position, such as an accounting or payroll job, the law prohibits them from asking you directly about your financial history during a job interview.

However, most employers conduct a credit check as a routine part of the hiring process. This is especially the case when the position to be filled has fiscal responsibilities. Before they can check your credit history, they need your permission to do so. An employer can refuse to hire you if you deny this consent.

If you consent, a potential employer will find out about your bankruptcy because they are reported on your credit history. A Chapter 13 bankruptcy generally stays on credit reports for seven years, while a Chapter 7 bankruptcy is reported for 10 years.

In this case, handle the situation as sincerely and honestly as possible. See the interview as an opportunity to explain the circumstances of your bankruptcy, something a credit report cannot do. If you have taken steps to address the events related to your bankruptcy, mention them as well. It is critical that a potential employer see you as a mature and responsible person who learns from past mistakes and can take concrete steps to move in a positive direction.

Get great recommendations

Include as many professional and character recommendations in your job application as possible. While these do not need to focus or even mention your bankruptcy past, it is important that they present you as a thoroughly trusted and accomplished professional who is an asset to any potential employer.

Filing for bankruptcy is a wake-up call for most people. The experience teaches them to take control and responsibility for the financial, personal and professional aspects of their lives. It makes them more aware and very appreciative of the opportunities life offers them. Overall, it’s not a bad profile for a prospective employee, and most employers would probably agree.