I have done some stupid things when I was younger, now my credit is all messed up?

Don't give up hope, there is a way to correct your situation.

Depending upon how much debt you have and what type, there are ways to correct this but it will take time. Here is some info regarding bankruptcy as the laws have changed. It is no longer a simple thing to do.

Counseling and Education Requirements

As a rule, pre-bankruptcy credit counseling and pre-discharge debtor education may not be provided at the same time. Credit counseling must take place before you file for bankruptcy; debtor education must take place after you file.

Your best bet is to get a credit counseling agency to advise you of the best options.

A pre-bankruptcy counseling session with an approved credit counseling organization should include an evaluation of your personal financial situation, a discussion of alternatives to bankruptcy, and a personal budget plan. A typical counseling session should last about 60 to 90 minutes, and can take place in person, on the phone, or online. The counseling organization is required to provide the counseling free of charge for those consumers who cannot afford to pay. If you cannot afford to pay a fee for credit counseling, you should request a fee waiver from the counseling organization before the session begins. Otherwise, you may be charged a fee for the counseling, which will generally be about $50, depending on where you live, the types of services you receive, and other factors. The counseling organization is required to discuss any fees with you before starting the counseling session.

I have provided a link to locate one in your area, these are the only ones recognized by the FTC and not those type that offer the moon and charge you fees to do very little. These agencies may wave any fees depending upon your circumstances.

Without knowing exactly how much debt you have, I can't really say whether bankruptcy is best or not. The first step would be get your credit reports and see what's on there. You may also consider trying to bargain with your creditors. Many times if you call them and tell them you either need to settle the account or you have to file bankruptcy, they'll settle. Make sure though, that they won't mark the account "paid for less than full balance" or your credit score will go down. If you need more info, please feel free to contact me.

Bankruptcy these days does not get rid of your debt as is did before, just gives you a payback plan but does stay on your report for 10 years. Find a better way.