Picture this scenario: You found a lawyer, filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, met all the requirements and now your debts are clear.

Now that you have a fresh financial start, you can go about the process of rebuilding your finances, including improving your credit score.

While a Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing will appear on your credit report, the filing also likely wiped out the bad credit card debts that were bringing your score down.

With these gone your slate is effectively wiped clean. Your credit history now can be whatever you make of it.

There is life after bankruptcy, and building up that credit score is not as hard as it is made out to be. Where to start? Here are three tips to help you rebuild your credit the right way.

Consider a secured credit card. According to the Money Central website, the best way to bounce back from bankruptcy is to use credit. However, many credit card companies may be wary to extend a credit card to someone who recently filed Chapter 7. And, the credit offers you may get may have high interest rates or heavy fees. One way around

A secured credit card requires you to put some collateral up to “secure” the debt for the card. So to get this credit card you may have to place some money up front in an account.

Most secured cards have a rather low credit limit. However, the goal of this card is to show credit companies you can make regular payments. Consider using this card to make small payments that you can easily pay off in full at the end of the month. Also, before you sign up speak with your bank about your options for converting this card into a regular, unsecured credit card after a year or so of good payments by you.

Pay on time. This time around your goal is to pay the balance of the card off every single month. Achieving this goal also means watching what you spend that month. Use your card for small purchases you’re sure you can pay off at the end of the month. Be aware of when your bill is due and send it in a little early. The Post Office is not going to apologize to you if the mail is running a little late that week. Another option: See if you can switch to automatic bill pay. That way the bill gets paid on time regardless.

Start saving. You need money that you don’t touch in case something important comes up. Many people who file for bankruptcy do so because of job loss or high medical bills, not because they just forgot to make payments on their credit cards. This is why you’re often told to save up at least 3 months worth of expected expenses like rent and food. Does three months sound daunting? The Money Management website suggests to start by aiming to save two weeks’ worth of pay in your savings account. Baby steps are key.

There are your three tips for your credit renaissance. Happy life after bankruptcy!