credit report

[ineedinfo]

Unfortunately, I may be looking to finance a used car (although I plan on trying to save a buy a better used car than what I currently have, which is on its last legs and not going to make it thru 2 1/2 more years).

I looked at my credit report last night and there are 4 accounts listed as in collections that are actually included in my 13.

This is a stupid question, but *should* they be listed as in collections? I'm assuming they were in that status when I filed, so I don't know if they continue to show that way until my 13 is completed or if they should show now as being part of my plan (which they are).

[lrprn]

If the accounts were in collections *before* you filed, then the 'in collections' designations on your credit report can remain coded that way even after filing bk. According to the Federal Trade Commission, "When negative information in your report is accurate, only the passage of time can assure its removal. A credit reporting company can report most accurate negative information for seven years." http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/cons...dit/cre03.shtm

The most important question here is do the four accounts in question show a zero balance? If they don't, then dispute that immediately. They need to, even if the debts were in collection before you filed.

Since the accounts are included in your bk, you can try disputing the four "in collections" codes with all three credit agencies and ask them to change the designation to IIB (included in bankruptcy). They just might do it (although be prepared for it to flip back unexpectedly in a few months).

After your case is successfully discharged, even the pre-filing collections codes must be changed to IIB or DIB (discharged in bankruptcy) showing a balance of zero.