It may sound like the stupidest financial move ever: getting credit cards after bankruptcy. But done right, it may be one of the smartest moves you can make for your credit. The main purpose for getting new credit cards after bankruptcy is to help boost your credit scores, which most likely took a hit when you filed.

If you’re thinking you can settle your student loan debt for 40% to 60% less than what you currently owe, think again. Student loans are nearly impossible to discharge in bankruptcy and therefore just as difficult to settle. If you’ve defaulted on your student loans, your best option is to figure out how to get caught up. Otherwise, you could be sued for the debt.

A credit bureau gathers information about how consumers use credit. In other words, they collect information from as many consumer financial transactions or inquiries as they can. They then sell access to that combined information to anyone who has a legally-recognized reason (permissible purpose).

According to Experian.com, an unpaid tax lien will most definitely affect your credit score negatively. How much, however, varies since Experian notes that it depends on an individual’s overall track record of paying bills on time. The important thing is to find ways to get the IRS lien paid before considering options you have that can remove a current or old and paid lien from your credit score.

Macy’s Credit Card is provided by Department Stores National Bank for Macy’s customers. Interested customers can apply for a card online. Current cardholders can log into their online account to view their account information, pay their bill, manage their account and more. Cardholder benefits include discounts and special offers at Macy’s stores. Macy’s Credit Card is accepted at any Macy’s store.