I want to join the Coast Guard but I have bad credit, debt collections, and a car repo. I'm talking with a lawyer to do bankruptcy, but my Coast Guard Recruiter is saying I would have to wait to join for 7 years if I file. That would put me past the age of 27 (I'm 25 now) to join. I have read that bad credit and repo's will disqualify you to join and I have also read on the discussions here that I may not have a problem if I have a bankruptcy. Should I give my hopes up with joining or is there a possibility for a waiver in this situation? I'm not too sure if my recruiter is interested in helping me, so is there something I can do to get a waiver? Thanks for any help! Quinn
My debt was discharged in a Chapter 7 in January 2003. I left for bootcamp in May 2004. Go to a different recruiter because this one doesn't know what they're talking about. Of course, I wouldn't recommend the bankruptcy anyway. See if you can join and then put the SCRA to use to your benefit. I know it's hard, but even just finding an apartment can be a real hassel after a bankruptcy. Take this from someone with experience in the matter.
I have been told the same thing by my local recruiter. Any information would be greatly appreciated, alot of people have said that there is absolutely nothing I can do but wait 7 years. I am 27 yrs now and feel like i'm running out of time.
