Being sued for Credit Card Debt

How to Keep From Being Sued

When someone sues you there are three possible outcomes: you win, you lose or you settle. If you can prove your case — and win — the case is over and the plaintiff loses. Losing the case, however,…
Five Rules for Being Debt Free

When too much debt puts a pinch on your financial resources, living debt free sounds like a challenge. With time and effort, you can, however, learn the money management skills you need to turn your…
What Happens if You’re Sued for a Debt and Don’t Have Money To Pay?

Being sued for a debt and not having the money to pay can trigger other financial headaches. Creditors typically sue if you don’t communicate with them or arrange to pay a debt after 180 days. Some…
The Options if Getting Sued by a Debt Collector

A lawsuit is typically a last resort for debt collectors; because litigation is expensive, collectors usually exhaust all other options, including demand letters, phone calls and attempts to offer you…
How Much of Your Wage Can Be Garnished in Arkansas?

Failing to make timely payments on your debt can have serious consequences for Arkansas consumers. If you do not work with a creditor to catch up your delinquent payments, the creditor may file a…
What Could Happen if You’re Being Sued for Back Rent?

Although landlord and tenant laws vary depending on the state you live in, landlords always have some latitude to sue tenants for rent that is owing under a rental contract. Each state has a formal…
Can Retirement Earnings Be Garnished in Georgia?

Georgia laws protect some pension and retirement plans while leaving other plans wide open for garnishment by creditors. The laws that govern garnishment in Georgia may affect you, so become aware of…
What Happens to Credit Card Debt After Death in Massachusetts?

When you incur a debt on you credit cards, you make a promise to the credit card issuer that you’ll eventually repay. However, if you die before repaying it, that debt may not get repaid at all. What…
Is a Surviving Spouse or Executor Responsible for Paying the Deceased’s Income Tax?

When taxpayers die, their assets go into an estate prior to distribution to beneficiaries, named either in the will or determined by the state. The representative of the estate — called the executor…
Can a Credit Card Garnish My Wages If I Am on Disability and Work Part Time?

After a creditor has made numerous attempts to resolve a past-due balance on a loan, credit card or other debt, it may resort to filing a civil suit against you for the balance of your debt. Unless…
Can Pensions Be Garnished by the IRS?

Americans may get behind on their taxes for many reasons, such as failure to pay taxes on a business venture’s income. While the IRS may seem to ignore a tax liability for a time, eventually it will…
Is a Surviving Relative Responsible for a Parent’s Unpaid Bills?

A surviving relative, even one who is an heir, is not responsible for a parent’s debt. Debts are not wiped out by death, however. Debt collectors may legally seek from the estate of the deceased…
Do I Owe Taxes to IRS on a Debt That Is Charged Off & Sold to Another Collection Agency?

One of the most difficult to grasp aspects of tax law is how certain transactions are treated as income even if there is no money exchanged. A discharge of debt happens to be one instance where you…
How to Take Responsibility for Paying Someone Else’s Debt

When a friend or family member gets into debt, he may approach you at some point about taking responsibility for it. In some cases, your family member or friend may not be able to get approved for…
What Incomes Cannot Be Garnished?

Garnishment allows debt collectors to take money from a debtor’s bank accounts or wages to satisfy a court judgment or government tax levy. Garnishment has such a potentially devastating effect on…
What Happens if a Person Dies With More Debt Than the Estate Can Pay?

Chlidren and other heirs seeking assets from the estate of a deceased loved one may be disappointed if the estate has more debts than assets. If the estate cannot repay all debts, creditors may…
Can You Be Sued Over Very Old Debts?

A debt collector can attempt to collect on a debt as long as it remains unpaid, as long as he does not violate the Fair Dept Credit Practices Act (FDCPA). A debt collector may not be able to sue you…
Is a Deceased Person’s Estate Responsible for Back Taxes?

There is no escaping death and taxes, and this includes the responsibility of a deceased person’s estate toward the payment of back taxes. Non-payment of back taxes can hold up the probate process or…
Do I Need to Show I Had a Car Repossessed on a Tax Return?

There are no provisions on federal income tax returns for specifically reporting a car repossession. However, in most situations, tax payers must report debt settlement activity related to car…
When a Husband Dies Does His Land Automatically Go to the Spouse in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, as in other states, spouses are free to bequeath their entire estate to a surviving spouse in a last will and testament. However, when a spouse dies without a will in Tennessee, the…
For How Long Does a Written Warning Stay on Your License?

Having a “good” driving record means you have not been charged points for driving violations. However, it does not mean you’ve never received a written warning from an officer for poor driving, for…
Tax Laws for Deceased Parents

When a parent dies, the practical concerns of money and taxes may be the last thing you want to think about, but you will have to ensure that your parent’s tax liabilities are met. In general, your…
Can a Credit Card Company Garnish Wages If I Am on Worker’s Compensation?

Under federal law, certain wages and earnings are protected from wage garnishment. A wage garnishment is different from a voluntary wage assignment, which is an agreement whereby you voluntarily…
Pennsylvania DOT’s Equalization and Overtime Procedures

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has numerous units of government, including the Department of Transportation (DOT). Many Pennsylvania DOT employees are represented by the American Federation of…
How Long Does a Judgment Against You Stay on Your License?

As a general rule, civil judgments have no impact on consumer driver’s licenses. There is, however, one notable exception. If a victim sues you after an automobile accident and wins, the resulting…
Do Debt Collectors Need a Signed Contract From the Lender in a Repo Lawsuit?

If you can no longer afford your car payments, losing the vehicle to repossession isn’t always the end of your financial woes. You are legally responsible for paying off the loan balance you…
Can a Person Be Sued for Credit Cards in Two Different States for the Same Issue?

Getting sued for an unpaid credit card bill can be an unpleasant experience with a devastating impact upon your credit score. A judgment for an unpaid bill can endanger not only your credit, but also…
Can I Transfer My Assets to My Wife if I’m Getting Sued?

If you do not pay a personal or business debt, an accident, unpaid taxes or other financial liability, a creditor or injured party may sue you for the amount you owe. If the court issues a judgment…
What Does an Order from a Debt Collector to Dismiss from Arbitration Council Mean?

The Federal Trade Commission administers the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, which is codified in Title 15 of the United States Code. Although the act prohibits abusive collection efforts and…
Am I Responsible for My Husbands Judgment If He Is a Sole Proprietor?

A sole proprietorship is the easiest form of business to create and it also carries the most risk. You could end up owing quite a bit of money in connection with your husband’s business debts if his…
Is It Against the Law to Sign Someone Else’s Check With Their Permission?

A friend might ask you to sign her name on a check because she is out of the area and has to pay a bill, or because a check she wants to deposit needs an endorsement. You can sign someone else’s check…
Will an In-Ground Pool Increase Your New York State Taxes?

An in-ground swimming pool provides summer fun, but it can also be a financial burden. Not only are there significant chemical costs, but an in-ground pool increases a homeowner’s insurance rate. In…
Florida Bankruptcy Law Restrictions on Protected Liquid Assets

A liquid asset is something easily converted into cash, including money held in a bank account or retirement fund. Florida bankruptcy law allows for expansive exemptions of liquid assets, including…
Am I Responsible for My Roommate’s Debt?

Creditors cannot hold you responsible for a roommate’s debt—unless you share legal responsibility for the debt. There are certain situations in which one roommate is held responsible for debts…
What Form Do I Use to Allow Someone Else to Claim One of My Children?

For many taxpayers, claiming their children represents significant tax advantages. These include claiming the dependent exemption, the child tax credit or the childcare credit. In some cases a…
How to Do a Motion to Dismiss Regarding Credit Cards in Indiana

In Indiana, you can file a motion to dismiss a credit card lawsuit that is without merit or in violation of state procedures. If the plaintiff does not comply with Indiana’s rules of trial procedure,…
Can I Still Get Unemployment If I’m a Consultant?

Consultants can be either independent contractors (self-employed) or employees. If you are an employee of a consulting firm that pays unemployment taxes, you are eligible for unemployment benefits. If…
Can Child Support Garnish Any of Your SSI Back Pay?

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are federal disability benefits for people with low incomes. These benefits are administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA), which pays the benefits…
Can I Be Sued for an Unpaid Judgment?

Cleaning up your credit history may involve satisfying old judgments. An unpaid judgment on your credit report can reduce your score, and this can look bad when applying for other loans or credit…
Can Unemployment Be Garnished in Nebraska?

Federal and state laws impose limitations on garnishment of wages after a civil judgment. Certain types of income are exempt and cannot be garnished to pay a debt. In Nebraska, unemployment payments…
Being Sued by Two Companies at the Same Time for the Same Debt

More than one company cannot sue you for the same debt. If you prove the plaintiff in the debt collection lawsuit lacks the legal authority to collect the debt in court, the court will dismiss the…
How Do I File a Motion to Dismiss on a Time-Barred Debt?

Getting sued for money owed can be a disaster for anyone. Depending upon your financial situation and the size of the alleged debt in question, a lawsuit to collect a debt could drive you into…
Missouri Military-Pension Taxability

Missouri residents who earn income during the year have an obligation to prepare a state income tax return after preparing their federal return. Like most states, Missouri calculates your taxable…
Credit Card Arbitration Help

A creditor may start legal proceedings against a consumer if he doesn’t pay his debt. Most credit card companies require consumers to go through arbitration to settle a debt dispute. It is a less…
Will I Still Get Unemployment Extension If I’m Still on My Original Claim?

Unemployed United States citizens may be concerned about applying for extended unemployment benefits. All 50 states in the U.S. provide initial unemployment benefits to eligible workers, but most…
Can a Deceased Person’s Estate Give Property Under a Trust?

When an individual dies, his estate will be distributed according to his wishes or according to the rules of probate law. If the individual used a trust document, assets in the estate will be given to…
Legal Rights of Sued Spouses

Marriage isn’t just a romantic relationship; in many ways, it’s also a business arrangement. As is the case with any business partnership, sometimes you can find yourself involved in a lawsuit by or…
Steps to Take When Sued by a Creditor

Court cases on television portray high drama and interesting situations, but this is rarely the way that it really is when a creditor sues a debtor for nonpayment of a debt. The process is very…
If a Relative Dies Without a Will & Leaves Bills, Is the Family Responsible?

If you die owing money to creditors, those debts do survive you, but in most instances your relatives will not be saddled with the responsibility directly. This is the case even if you die without a…
Am I Responsible for My Dead Husband’s Medical Bills Under Texas Law?

If you are under the assumption that your spouse’s debts will disappear after death, you might want to check your address. Texas, along with Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, New Mexico,…
Am I Responsible for My Spouse’s Bills Under Illinois Law?

The Illinois Family Expense Act requires spouses to accept liability for each other’s debts if they occurred during the course of the marriage and were related to promoting the general welfare of the…
Can My Wages Be Garnished for My Husband’s Child Support Order in Texas?

You may have heard that if you marry someone you inherit his debt. In some cases, this is true. When it comes to child support in Texas, a parent is ordered to pay the debt or face enforcement…
Can I Refinance If I’m Sued for Foreclosure in Pennsylvania?

You can apply to refinance anywhere, no matter what’s going on with your property. The challenge, however, lies in getting approved for a mortgage refinance after going through a financial event like…
Should You Go to an Arbitration Hearing Over Bad Debt Without an Attorney?

If your bills have gotten the best of you but bankruptcy seems too drastic, debt arbitration may be the answer. Arbitration allows you to negotiate a lower payoff amount for your debt with fewer…
Am I Legally Responsible for My Husband’s Bills?

Your legal liability for your spouse’s bills depends a great deal on where you live. In the nine community-property states — Wisconsin, Arizona, Washington, California, Texas, Louisiana, New Mexico,…
Who Has to Be Paid First From Deceased’s Property in a Trust?

A common method of transferring the assets of one person to beneficiaries on death is through a living trust. A trustee manages the trust and is responsible for paying out all of the trust’s…
The Death of a Spouse & an Unpaid Credit Card in Kentucky

After the death of a spouse, the last thing that may be on your mind is unpaid credit card bills. However, creditors are likely to continue attempting to collect past due payments even after the death…
Am I Liable in Florida for My Husband’s Business If He Dies?

If a person dies intestate — without a will — Florida Statutes provide that the surviving spouse is entitled to her spouse’s estate, and that includes any business in which the spouse had an…
After a Person Dies Do You Have to Pay their Credit Card If You Are an Authorized User?

Paying off a deceased loved one’s debts can be a lengthy process, especially if the estate is not large enough to cover all of the debt. If the estate is not paying the debt, the credit card company…
Can Pennsylvania Pensions Be Garnished for Alimony Payments?

Pensions enjoy significant protections in every state, including Pennsylvania, because pensions are protected by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) at the federal level. ERISA…
How to Pass Financial Information to Heirs Upon Death

Total financial planning requires ensuring that your heirs have a way to know about your finances after your death. The people inheriting your estate must know about everything regarding your finances…
Can My Wages Be Garnished for a $400 Balance?

State and federal law places restrictions on the amount a creditor may garnish wages in a pay period. All states have wage garnishment statues, which dictate the allowed garnishment percentages.…
Louisiana Laws on Appealing Wage Garnishment

Garnishment occurs when a court orders that a part of your wages be immediately deducted from your check to pay off outstanding debts. You will rightly be alarmed if you get a garnishment order.…
Can SSI Be Garnished for Back Child Support in Texas?

Trying to collect child support can be a challenge. Some parents try to evade their obligations, but federal law makes it hard for them to do so. Child support enforcement laws provide practical ways…
Can a Creditor Garnishee Your Wages in Arizona for a Secured Debt?

Arizona, like other states, permits a judgment creditor to apply to the court for a writ of garnishment order. If granted, the writ directs the judgment debtor’s employer to set aside a specified…
Can Your Wages Be Garnished for Repossession in Florida?

Garnishment is one of the tools creditors use to get money when you can’t pay. Rather than wait for you to write the check, your employer diverts a share of your wages to your creditor each payday…
Is the Estate Responsible for Deceased Property Taxes?

When a person dies, an estate opens to settle his financial affairs and pay his debts. An estate is directly responsible for payment of any debts owed by the deceased, which may include payment of…
What Can I Do About a Dental Office Sending My Account to Collections?

Credit card companies are not the only ones that can send delinquent payments to a collections office. If you run up a medical bill from your regular doctor or dental office and are unable to pay it,…
When an Account Is Closed for Cause Would This Be the Start of an SOL for Reporting?

Millions of people each year have their bank accounts closed “for cause,” which means the owner had a negative balance, such as taking out more money than he has in his account. If you are worried…
Who Pays the Taxes From a Deceased Bank Account?

When a loved one dies, you’re faced with a multitude of decisions about what to do with any inheritance you receive. You also must probate any property left to an estate and arrange for the funeral…
Can I Be Sued for a Debt Before the Debt Is Verified?

Consumers should look at a debt collector who is trying to collect a debt from them with skepticism. As debts are bought and sold by third party debt buyers, errors can be introduced into the process,…
Can I End Up Paying Taxes on a Charged-Off Debt and Have it Sold to a Third Party Collection Agency?

A debt does not vanish simply because your creditor charges it off. Charge-offs benefit creditors by allowing the business to clear bad debts from its accounting records. Charging off a debt gives the…
How Are Minnesota Garnishment Deductions Calculated?

When you owe a debt, your wages may be garnished to settle the amount owed. If a court issues a writ of garnishment to your employer, he is required to hold a certain amount of your pay to settle your…
If I Have a Judgment But the Defendant Works in Another State Can I Garnish His Wages?

The decision as to whether a creditor or debt collector can garnish a debtor’s wages is governed by state law. Most states allow creditors to garnish wages to recover delinquent debts. Before you can…
Should You Go to Court Over Credit Card Debt in Texas?

In Texas, the petitioner, who is the credit card lender, files a lawsuit in court. You, the respondent, are served with legal notice of the lawsuit. Receiving a summons to appear in court for a debt…
How Does Credit-Card Debt Arbitration Work in Kentucky?

Credit card arbitration is a tactic used my credit card companies to collect past-due monies. According to Forbes magazine, arbitration is rigged to favor credit-card companies and work against the…
If You Are Mentally Disabled Can Credit Cards Collect Debt?

In the 1990s, the mentally disabled population were often granted credit cards, regardless of their ability to repay a loan or capacity to enter into a contract. Depending on the severity of a…
If I Get a Military Pension, Will I Lose My Pension if I Get Remarried?

The United States military provides pensions to retirees and certain disabled military personnel in recognition of the fact that their service and personal financial sacrifices required giving up…
When Can a Wife Draw From Her Husband’s Pension?

Although pensions are disappearing, a few private and public institutions still offer this generous benefit to workers. One of the benefits of some pensions is the ability for spouses to collect on…
Can Pensions Be Garnished in Georgia?

Your creditors can sue you in Georgia to recover debts that you owe to them. However, your creditors are limited as to what they may take from you. Your creditors generally cannot take your retirement…
Defaulting Banks & Checking Accounts

The financial crisis of 2008 put many banks out of business and instilled fear in the hearts of many consumers. Checking accounts are the financial instrument many use to manage most of their…
How to File a Motion to Dismiss Debt

When a plaintiff seeks repayment of an expired debt — meaning the statute of limitations runs out — or cannot prove that a defendant is the actual owner of the debt, the defendant may file a motion…
Can a Home Be Seized in Texas for Credit Card Debt?

If collection agencies are calling you and threatening to seize your home if you don’t pay up, you can defend yourself by understanding what consumer rights Texas law affords its residents. While in…
If I Am Being Sued by a Credit Card Company, Can It Take My Child Support Money?

If a person owes money on a credit card and carries the balance for long enough without paying on his bill, he may eventually face lawsuits from his creditors. The creditors will usually follow a…
Can a Credit Card Company Garnish Your Wages or Take Your Car in the State of Florida?

If you are concerned about a credit card company taking your car or your bank account, it probably means that you have not made payments to the company in a long time. Wage garnishment and asset…
Can a Spouse Get a Student Loan for a Husband?

Sometimes going back to school to earn a first or second bachelor’s degree, postgraduate degree or college certificate seems like the best way to move careers forward. If your husband is considering…
Executor Duties With a Surviving Spouse

If you have been named the executor of an estate, you have many tasks that you must complete to ensure that the will has been executed properly and that all appropriate notifications have been made…
Can They Still Keep My Income Taxes If My Wages Are Garnished?

If you fall behind on loan payments, fail to pay child support or alimony or you do not pay your taxes on time, your wages may be garnished and your bank and other financial accounts frozen. Laws…
Can a Florida Mortgage Company Garnish Wages?

If you fail to make payments on your mortgage, a Florida lender can ask for a judgment against you. A court can grant this judgment if the debt is active and lawful and your borrowing contract has…
Can I Deduct My Garnished Wages on My Taxes?

Wage garnishment is a way for creditors to forcefully and legally take income that you owe to them. Creditors can only get a garnishment order from a legal court of law; once obtained, the order…
How to Handle Bill Collectors on the Phone When the SOL Has Passed

When you fail to pay a debt, bill collectors have the right to contact you to request payment. In many cases, these creditors are persistent and call you frequently in an attempt to collect on the…
How Long Does Settled Debt Stay on Your Credit Report?

Settling a debt might save you thousands of dollars on an account now, but it could cost you much more on future loans because it sticks to your report for years. However, most debts that get to the…
Oregon’s Law on Marital Credit

In Oregon, the legislature allows spouses to obtain “short form” summary divorces if they can agree upon a distribution of debts and assets without a court’s participation. When spouses are unable to…
If My Bank Froze My Account, What Is the Fastest Way to Unfreeze It?

If a creditor freezes your bank account, you may have the funds in the account released under certain conditions. For instance, federal laws prevent a creditor from freezing your bank account if the…
Basic Issues About Business Credit Cards & Credit Repair

Banks and finance firms issue credit cards to businesses, and these cards work in the same way as consumer credit cards. Although business cards are issued in the name of the entity rather than an…
Can a Hospital Garnish My Spouse’s Wages?

When you can’t afford to pay a medical bill you run the risk of having a lawsuit filed against you by the medical facility. When this happens, the hospital could eventually get an order to garnish…
Tennessee Consumer Rights When Sued by a Collection Agency

The Consumer Credit Protection Act protects the rights of a consumer sued by a debt collection agency in Tennessee and other states across the country. This law caps the amount of money a collection…
Can Wages Be Garnished Over an Unsecured Debt?

A secured debt is linked to your assets, such as your home for a mortgage; the lender can foreclose on your home if you stop making payments. Unsecured debt, such as credit card debts and medical…
What Measures Debt & Paying Ability?

Your ability to secure credit and successfully manage your debt is one of the most important aspects of your life, both financial and otherwise. Your credit management is tracked by your credit report…
Relationship Between House Size & Income

The traditional image of a wealthy person includes residence in a large house, and many wealthy people fulfill this image by buying a large house as soon as they become rich enough to afford it. One…
Can I Still Get My Pension If I’m Fired?

Pensions are retirement benefits provided by your employer. These benefits replace some of the personal savings you need when you retire. However, sometimes companies terminate employees before they…
How Long Does It Take for Credit Card Companies to Garnish Your Wages?

Creditors have multiple collections options available, one of which is to garnish your wages. Usually creditors do this only if you can’t work out a payment plan or don’t have any other assets of…
Can a Creditor Garnishee Your Check in California?

Garnishment is the process of freezing your financial accounts or legally seizing a portion of your wages to recover creditor debt or back taxes you owe. In California, creditors can petition the…
What Happens to Credit Card Debt When Someone Dies in Texas?

When somebody close to you dies, you probably aren’t thinking about paying her credit card bills for her. However, resolving debts is one of the loose ends you may have to address for your deceased…
What Happens When a Credit Card Collector Goes to an Arbitration Board?

When you default on your credit card debt, the credit card company charges off the debt and sells your balance to a collection agency after 180 days. Because collectors buy debts for far less than the…
Are Children Liable for Parents’ Funeral Expenses?

When a parent passes away, it can be an especially stressful time emotionally and financially. Part of the process that comes immediately after the death is making funeral arrangements. If you are the…
How Large Does a Debt Have to Be to Be Sued?

Creditors have the ability to sue for an unpaid debt. Some debt allows creditors to take immediate action if it is not paid — most contracts give creditors the right to seize collateral like a house…
Salary Garnishments in Ohio

An employee’s salary is the amount her employer agreed to pay her each payday. Though salary is usually a fixed amount of pay that the employee can count on, it is not exempt from a wage garnishment.…
If I’m Being Sued for Credit Card Debt, Can My Credit Report Be Used Against Me?

A credit report compiles your payment history into four sections: negative accounts, positive accounts, public records and collections. The information contained in a credit report is vital because it…
What Makes a Deed of Trust Unenforceable?

A deed of trust is an instrument used to secure an underlying debt obligation tied to real property, such as a promissory note on a home loan. If an individual defaults on a note secured by a deed of…
How Long Before Collections Start Garnishing Wages?

If you have delinquent bills that are behind on payment, a creditor can seek to have your wages attached until the debt is paid. Since federal law controls the process, there is a strict procedure…
Can I File Taxes If I’m Renting an Apartment?

Congress uses tax law in order to generate revenue for the federal government and promote certain social actions — like saving for retirement — that it deems important. It is the job of the Internal…
Can You Get Sued for Breaking a Lease?

Breaking a lease will likely have consequences, but the extent of consequences depends largely on your landlord. Because ending a lease early is breach of contract, this move can negatively affect…
Pennsylvania Laws Regarding Being Sued for Credit Card Debt

The statute of limitations on credit card debt is four years in Pennsylvania. Creditors must bring legal proceedings against a debtor for past-due debt before the statute of limitations runs out or…
How to Prove SOL Debt

The acronym “SOL” is used to describe debt that is beyond state statute of limitation laws. Statute of limitation laws regulate how long debt collectors can use lawsuits to collect unpaid debts. Laws…
If Debt Is Past SOL, What Else Can a Debt Collector Do?

A creditor has a limited period of time to sue a debtor for the collection of a past-due or delinquent line of credit. This period of time is known as the “statute of limitations,” and it is set at…
Can I Be Sued for Breaking a Lease Because I Lost My Job?

When you lose your job, sometimes you lose more than just your employment; you may lose everything that job helped pay for. Among the many obligations that you might be unable to meet in the event of…
Binding Arbitration for Credit Cards

Occasionally, legal or financial disputes arise between consumers and credit card companies. In such cases, credit card agreements allow cardholders to seek a “binding arbitration” hearing, which is a…
Wages for Ironworkers in Georgia

Average job growth is likely for both structural and reinforcing ironworkers through at least 2018, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. More ironworkers are needed for maintaining,…
Laws on Who Pays Credit Card Debt of the Deceased

Although it seems intuitive that your credit card debt would disappear after death, you will have to check your state law to determine who will be responsible for your credit card debt after death.…
Your Rights When Sued by a Collection Agency

Not all collection agencies sue consumers. Those that do, file suit according to their own specific set of guidelines. For example, certain collection agencies only file lawsuits against individuals…
Who Pays for the Past Taxes of the Deceased?

When a taxpayer dies, it does not automatically wipe out any tax debt owing from when he was alive. Taxes must be calculated and all returns filed up to the date of death. Taxes from prior years that…
What Are My Rights If I’m Being Suspended or Fired From Work in Maryland State?

In Maryland, most employment is considered “at will,” so even if your employer unfairly fired you, it may be difficult to win a wrongful termination lawsuit. However, if your employer suspends or…
Is My Husband Responsible for My Student Loan?

Student loans are a significant long-term financial obligation. At the end of your educational career, you may owe hundreds of thousands of dollars, and you must gradually pay back your loans. If you…
Can a Collection Agency Check My Bank Transactions?

A collection agency is a business that assumes the responsibility of recovering past due debts for creditors, and typically receives a portion of the recovered funds as payment. A collection agency…
How to Improve Debt Utilization

Debt utilization—which is the percentage of your credit card debt in relation to your credit limit—affects your credit score. The more debt you owe, the greater the likelihood of a lower FICO…
Who Pays the Taxes After Parents Are Deceased?

When a person’s parents die, the time that follows is usually difficult and filled with many different questions. One of these questions surrounds the responsibility of paying the taxes on the assets…
How & Where to File for Unpaid Wages in Washington State

In Washington, employees can file for unpaid wages against their employers. The Washington Department of Labor and Industries has the authority to collect unpaid wages for employees under the 2006…
Can Creditors Garnish a Prepaid Debit Card?

A borrower is subject to a garnishment action when she is delinquent on a loan, is taken to court by the creditor or debt collector and has assets or wages confiscated by the court. Usually, back…
What Are the Laws in Texas Concerning Unpaid Credit Debt?

The Office of the Consumer Credit Consumer oversees laws for unpaid credit debt in Texas. These regulations pertain to the pursuit of credit debts owed and the statute of limitations involving these…
Is the Homeowner Responsible When Someone Gets Injured on Their Property?

Homeowners are sometimes legally responsible when someone gets injured on their property. This is part of premises liability law. The cause of the injury and the reason for the injured party’s…
In Getting a Divorce, Is the Wife Responsible for the Husband’s Debt That He Made While Married?

During marriage, spouses in some states may share responsibility for each other’s debts. Once you’re divorced, however, you aren’t responsible for your husband’s individual debts, even if he rung up…
The Law Regarding Credit Card Debt in North Carolina

North Carolina is a consumer-friendly state with one of the shortest debt collection laws regarding the collection of past-due credit card debt in the country. Debt collection laws mandate the length…
Minimum Wages for Withholding

Your employer has a legal obligation to withhold money from your wages to cover your federal taxes. If you meet certain IRS conditions — including that you won’t make enough money this year to pay…
Maryland’s Credit Debt Laws at Death

Probate is a legal process that validates a decedent’s last will and testament, distributes the decedent’s assets and pays off all remaining debts. The state of Maryland has a fairly simple probate…
Laws in New York State Regarding Estate Taxes

Estates in New York may be subject to both income and estate taxes. Although New York eliminated its own estate tax and is aligned with the federal government’s estate tax law, estates that are valued…
How to: Help With Repaying a Debt

Debt repayment is one of the most challenging tasks people face. It can create anxiety and be intimidating for overwhelmed borrowers. But doing so creates grave dangers, such as generating…
Do You Claim a Settled Credit Card on Taxes?

Potentially higher income tax bills are one disadvantage of debt settlement. The Internal Revenue Service requires listing of credit card settlement on income tax returns—if the settlement is for…
How to Answer a Lawsuit for Debt Collection in Texas

Many people are overwhelmed when they are served with a notice that a creditor is filing a lawsuit against them and choose to ignore it rather than defend themselves. However, in Texas, failing to…
Vermont Statutes on Consumer Credit

Vermont is a consumer-friendly state with moderately long statutes of limitations laws on delinquent credit card debt. Statutes of limitations are for the protection of consumers. However, state…
Who Can Garnish Your Wages in Tennessee?

Wage garnishment is legal in Tennessee for a variety of debts. Every creditor retains the right to attempt to pursue a wage garnishment order to force a debtor to meet financial obligations. Eligible…
How Long Does It Take for Collections to Garnish Wages?

Debt collectors put significant effort into collecting debts through voluntarily payment. Unfortunately, not all debtors have the means or the inclination to set up a voluntary payment plan. In this…
Can a Credit Card Company Put a Hold on Your Checking Account Without You Knowing?

Any creditor, including a credit card company, may place a hold — also called a freeze — on a bank account of a borrower who doesn’t make payments on his debt. Before a creditor takes such extreme…
What Is My Obligation If My Bill Is Sold to a Collection Agency?

Consumers may look upon debt collectors as nothing more than an annoyance. Some people may assume they have more of an obligation to repay a creditor than a collector. However, debt obligations…
Can a Collection Agency Garnish My Student Loans?

A collection agency forcing payment on debt is bad enough, but if it takes your student loan money, you may not be able to afford school. Technically, a collection agency should not have the power to…
How Can I See a Record of My Garnishment Payments?

When a creditor seeks to garnish, it must file and win a lawsuit against you, then get an order from the court to garnish your property, such as your wages or bank account. Legal entities, such as the…
Louisiana Garnishee Laws

Garnishment is the process by which a creditor obtains a court order to intercept part of an employee’s paycheck and use it to satisfy an outstanding debt. Though federal law acts as the ultimate…
Does It Help My Credit If I Add My Name to the Title of a House?

Credit experts sometimes suggest consumers co-sign an account in good standing because the credit bureaus report the positive history for any name on an account. Adding your name to the title on a…
If My Husband Dies as a Senior Citizen, Do I Get His Social Security?

Social Security provides retirement benefits for the worker who reaches retirement age. If the worker dies, qualifying survivors may collect survivor benefits based on the work history of the deceased…
Legal Responsibility of Ex Spouse for Credit Card Debt Incurred After Divorce

Like most things in family law, a spouse’s responsibility in a divorce case for credit card debt incurred by the other is governed by individual state laws. One fairly universal feature of state debt…
Can You Pay Off a Bill for Someone Else With a Balance Transfer?

A balance transfer is the act of moving funds from one financial account to another. You can use a balance transfer to pay off a personal debt or debt accumulated by a friend or family member.…
Statute of Limitation on Unsecured Loans in Texas

Texas mandates one of the shortest statutes of limitations laws in the country. As of May 2011, creditors and lenders have up to four years to pursue debt, including unsecured loans. If a lender fails…
Can I Still Keep My Disability If My Husband Passed Away & I Got His Life Insurance?

Wondering how the receipt of life insurance proceeds from a policy that covered your spouse will affect eligibility to begin or continue receiving disability benefits is a common concern. By…
What is ABS in Credit Card Banking?

An asset-backed security (ABS) is a way of repackaging outstanding loans and selling them to investors, who in turn benefit from the returns associated with its interest rates. These investors also…
Can Wages Be Garnished Without Judgment for Child Support in Texas?

If your divorce agreement says you must pay child support, you are legally obligated to do so until your child is 18, unless the agreement specifies a different ending date. In Texas, the attorney…
How to Know When Your Garnishment Has Been Paid in Full

A garnishment is a legal process that gives a debt collector the right to take your property to fulfill a debt obligation. The most common form of garnishment includes wage or bank account…
Can a Bank Account Be Garnished for Credit Card Debt in New Jersey?

Creditors in the United States can and will garnish bank accounts when someone owes them money. New Jersey is no exception. Garnishing a bank account is one of the easiest ways companies can get the…
How to Not Get Sued by Creditors

Missing one or two payments may not prompt a lawsuit by a creditor. But if you continue to miss payments, your creditor can file a suit against you to collect funds, late fees and additional interest.…
Can a Credit Union Freeze Your Checking Account for Past Due Debt?

A creditor has a right to file a lawsuit against a debtor if he defaults on a loan or a credit card. When a creditor receives a court judgment confirming the debt, she can attempt to collect it by…
How Long Does a Credit Card Settlement Settled With Prejudice Stay on Your Credit Record?

A credit card debt settled with prejudice means the debtor and the debt collector reached an agreement on the debt to resolve the issue. Usually, settled credit card debts are for less than the full…
Can You Stop a Court Order Judgment on a Credit Card Debt?

A credit card company you owe a balance to can seek a court judgment against you if you do not voluntarily pay off your debt. Or the credit card company can sell the account to a debt collector that…
Does Adding My Name to a Title Help My Credit?

Credit improvement requires a history of payments made on or before the deadlines, low credit card balances and a mixture of various account types, according to MSN Money writer Liz Pulliam Weston.…
If My Husband Is Receiving VA Disability Benefits & He Dies Can I Still Collect the Benefits

Losing a spouse is hard enough without worrying about your finances. If your late husband or wife was a disabled veteran, disability checks from the Department of Veteran’s Affairs may have been an…
The Responsibility of Debt in Separation

When a marriage comes to an end, things can get quite complicated. If you own assets as a couple, hold debt together or have children, divorce is even more difficult. Sometimes circumstances dictate a…
Can Mortgage Companies Garnish Your Wages in Michigan After Foreclosure?

Foreclosure in Michigan generally raises two major concerns for the borrower. The first concern is obvious: the borrower will lose his home in foreclosure. The second concern is more subtle: the…
Am I Responsible for My Ex-Husband’s Student Loan Debt?

The division of marital property and debts in a divorce can cause heated debates. Each state maintains its own laws for the division of debt over the course of a marriage. You could end up paying for…
Florida Laws That Protect a Surviving Spouse if They Are Not Provided for in the Testator’s Estate

If a will meets a state’s requirements for validity, the testator’s estate will be passed to his beneficiaries. Generally, a testator can name anyone as a beneficiary. However, in Florida, a testator…
The Statutes of Limitations for Debt in Connecticut

Debts are classified as open contracts, written contracts, promissory notes or oral agreements. Every state mandates its own debt collection laws, including the length of time creditors are permitted…
What Action Might You Take to Ensure That Your Credit Cards & Other Financial Information Is Secure?

The Federal Trade Commission estimates that as many as 9 million Americans suffer identity theft each year. Credit card fraud can ruin your credit for years and can cause possible problems with the…
Is a Bank Allowed to Take Money Out of an Account?

The money that you deposit into your bank account belongs to you, and typically you and the other account signers are the only people who are authorized to take money from your account. You can give…
Is There a Set Limit That Can Be Garnished Out of a Paycheck?

Wage garnishment is the process by which an employer is ordered to withhold a certain amount of money from an employee’s paycheck in order to satisfy a debt. A garnishment is often the result of a…
Help With Credit Card Debt in Florida

If you cannot pay your credit card bills as promised, you have several options to find debt relief, according to the Florida Attorney General. Failure to pay your credit card bills can lead to…
How to Stop Debt Collector Calls After the SOL Expired

The federal statute of limitations on outstanding debt is currently 10 years; however, each individual state can mandate a shorter statute of limitations. The shortest state statute of limitations on…
How Can I Garnish Someone’s Wages in the State of Texas?

Under Texas law, you can’t garnish an individual’s wages. The state makes exceptions for unpaid child support and student loan debts, but if you’re suing someone over a credit card or medical bill, or…
Nebraska Laws: Can You Be Sued or Have Your Wages Garnished if in a Debt Settlement Program?

When a person is late paying back a debt to creditors, he faces a number of different options in managing his debt. Among the most popular options is enrolling in a debt settlement program. This…
Can You Use Someone Else’s Credit Card to Pay Off Yours?

You cannot make a payment to a credit card or pay off a credit card using another credit card. Furthermore, you cannot use someone else’s credit card to make a purchase or payment since only that…
If the Deceased Has Property in a Trust, Can it Be Sold to Pay His Debts?

A revocable living trust can protect your assets from probate when you die, but not from your creditors. If someone has a claim against your estate, it can make that claim against your trust as well.…
Is the Credit Card Company Liable for Credit Card Fraud?

In some cases, credit card companies are fully liable for credit card fraud. In other circumstances, you can be partially liable up to the first $50, as of 2011. The rules for credit cards are…
Florida Debt & Credit Card Survivor Liability

In Florida, a decedent’s credit card debts cannot be passed on to his surviving spouse, relatives, heirs or beneficiaries. All of his debt is paid during the probate process using estate assets, and…
How Do You Report a Credit Card That Has Been Hacked?

Though credit cards are one of the most convenient ways to pay, they are also not fully secure. Credit card companies offer recourse to customers who are victims of identity theft in the form of…
How to Settle Judgments Without Bankruptcy

A judgment is a court-issued order for you to pay back money you owe to a creditor. Because it costs money for a creditor to file a lawsuit and get a legal judgment against you, many creditors will…
Responsibility for Credit Card Debt After the Death of a Spouse in Ohio

The sluggish economy in 2011 has led to difficult financial times for many families, and, in some cases, debts have piled up quickly. If your spouse passes away in the state of Ohio while still having…
How Long Will It Take Them to Garnish Your Wages at a New Employer?

Wage garnishment is the process of a creditor taking money for debt repayment via your job earnings. This process is entirely legal, but it takes time to complete because the creditor must follow due…
After My Wife’s Bankruptcy Am I Responsible for My Credit Cards?

Any debtor has the legal right to file bankruptcy as long as the criteria for bankruptcy are met. The bankruptcy process only eliminates the debt for the debtor included on the bankruptcy petition.…
Wife’s Rights If Her Name Is Not on the Husband’s Credit Card

If a wife’s name is not on her husband’s credit card account, it belongs solely to him and he is the only one legally responsible for paying the debt on the account. The exception to this rule is if…
What Does a Debt Arbitrator Do?

Most Americans have debt of one kind or another. Taking on debt is often a necessity to buy a home or finance an education; however, when an individual can no longer effectively manage his debt…
Surviving Spouse & Credit Card Debts in New York State

The state of New York is not a community property state. That means assets and liabilities, such as credit card debts, are not shared jointly by the man and the wife in marriage. When either party in…
What if I Can’t Find a Job on My Own?

In a job seeker’s dream, the search is a simple as asking for a reliable, high-paying job and receiving it. Yet even when the unemployment rate is at its lowest, finding work can seem impossible. When…
My Wages Were Garnished: How Can I See How Much More I Have to Pay in Order to Be Finished Paying?

If a garnishment was issued against your wages, your employer is supposed to withhold the required amount from your paychecks until the garnishment is released—when you finish paying off the debt or…
Government Assistance for Credit Card Debt

Government assistance for credit card debt is offered through bankruptcy. Bankruptcy severely damages credit scores, but it is the only program available from the government for directly eliminating…
Mobile Home Lot Eviction Laws in South Carolina

The South Carolina Code of Laws, Title 27 of Chapter 47, contains the respective rights and duties between landlords of mobile home parks and their tenants. The South Carolina Manufactured Home Park…
Why Do Banks Run a Credit Check for Checking Accounts?

Bank accounts do not necessarily involve debt, so the credit reporting bureaus usually leave them off of a report. However, banks sometimes pull credit on a customer. Credit inquiries related to a…
Can a Bank Make Entries on a Loan Application Without Your Knowledge?

Banks may occasionally receive loan applications that are incomplete. To correct inaccurate details, your banker might revise some of the initial entries made on your loan application. Generally, you…
South Carolina Bad Debt Laws

Several state and federal laws protect South Carolina residents who incurred debts honestly and were ultimately unable to pay them. But if one lies to get credit or deliberately sets out to defraud…
Can You Garnish on Credit Card Debt in Nevada?

When a person takes out a credit card, allowing him to make loans against a line of credit, he runs the risk of incurring steep penalties and fees if he fails to pay the loans on time. When this…
Can I Be Sued in a Credit Card Debt Settlement Program?

When people borrow money using their credit cards, they are legally required to pay this money back. Failing to pay this money back according to the repayment terms in their credit card agreement…
California Laws on Garnishments From a Debt Collector

A creditor or debt collector cannot take it upon himself to garnish your bank account or wages; he must first get a judgment against you for the money you owe. The Internal Revenue Service is exempt…
Texas Law on a Spouse’s Death & Debt

When a spouse dies in Texas, the state requires a probate court process so that all outstanding debts can be settled legally. Texas is a community property state, however, so the surviving spouse may…
Can Any Person Inherit a Debt?

Many people are deeply in debt. Whether the debt was caused by poor financial habits, an economic downturn or just bad luck, the thought of leaving your family to inherit any part of that debt is…
Telemarketing Laws for South Carolina

Federal and state laws govern consumer rights against deceptive trade practices. Telemarketing businesses must comply with both. In South Carolina, the Department of Consumer Affairs can investigate…
What Lines of Credit Are Available to People Under 21?

Young adults often begin their quest toward independence by going to school or getting their first job. Prior to March 2010, independence also meant getting your first credit card. But many people…
Will I Be Sued If My House Is Foreclosed Because I’m Unable to Pay My Mortgage?

Being behind on your mortgage and facing a potential foreclosure may seem like the worst thing that can happen to you financially, but being sued and losing a lawsuit after the foreclosure can make…
If the Department of Revenue Garnished My Wages, How Much Will They Take?

If you owe back taxes, which you refuse to pay or make arrangements to pay, the governing revenue agency can garnish or levy your wages. The Internal Revenue Service administrates federal tax laws and…
When Will a Credit Card Left Unpaid for Three Months Go to Collections?

When you fail to make any payments on a credit card, the credit card company will eventually give up on receiving payment and sell the account to a collection agency. This has several negative…
What Could Happen If a Second Mortgage Is Foreclosed On?

Mortgage foreclosure is a repossession lawsuit. Foreclosure proceedings can begin whether a first or second mortgage is in default. But what happens depends on whether one or both are in default, and…
What Can I Do if a Collection Company Froze My Bank Account?

A collection company that wins a lawsuit against you earns the right, as a judgment creditor, to garnish your bank account. Before removing money from your bank account and turning it over to the…
Is a Wife Responsible for a Husband’s Debt in Pennsylvania?

Debt within a marriage can be a divisive subject. If the spouses have different attitudes toward money — perhaps one’s a saver and the other a spender — this can lead to arguments and sometimes even…
Can You Order a Credit Report on a Family Member?

You can order credit reports on individuals through the three major credit bureaus — TransUnion, Equifax and Experian. However, you must meet eligibility requirements, provide supporting…
Credit Card Debt After Death in the State of Michigan

When a person dies, debt collectors may try to contact his spouse or other close relatives to collect his debt. Although debt collectors may appear sympathetic, their behavior is illegal. In most…
Can I Get a Second Credit Card for a Family Member?

When you have a credit card account, sometimes you want to let your family members make purchases on that account. Instead of lending out your credit card, many credit card companies allow you to get…
Unsecured Debt & Survivor Liability in Florida

When a family member or loved one passes away, there are generally many legal and financial details for the survivors to handle. One concern with many families is whether they are liable for debts…
Is a Husband Responsible for a Wife’s Debt in Texas?

Texas is a community property state and as such, many people believe the husband is responsible for his wife’s debt and vice versa. In some cases that is true, but the reality of the law is actually…
What Is the Statute of Limitation for Unsecured Debt Collection in Nebraska?

The statute of limitations for unsecured debt in Nebraska varies by the debt’s specific classification. An unsecured debt may fall into almost any debt category depending on how the loan or other…
How to Claim Unpaid Salary

The federal Fair Labor Standards Act requires employers to fairly pay their workers and provides workers with a means to investigate, and if necessary, sue employers for unpaid wages. The Department…
Issues of Credit Card Debt

The average consumer has more than $4,200 in credit card debt, according to Experian. While carrying any credit card debt isn’t necessarily either a good or bad thing, all credit card users should be…
Am I Responsible for My Husband’s Debts?

Under normal circumstances, a debt collector can contact the wife of a debtor in an attempt to collect a debt. This can be averted, to an extent, if legal precautions are taken ahead of time, by…
Debt Refinancing Information for You

Debt refinancing happens when an individual or a business combines several debts into one single payment to lower overall costs, among other reasons. For example, if you have two loans with an…
What Settlement Can I Negotiate If Sued for Credit Card Debt?

If you lose a credit card debt collection lawsuit, the creditor will hold a legal judgment against you. Not only does the judgment damage your credit, it gives your creditor the right to take payment…
How Long Does it Take an Average Person to Pay Off Their Credit Card Debt?

Unfortunately, paying off credit card debt is not always a simple and straightforward process — especially when all you can make is the minimum payment each month. Continuous use of the card while…
How Does Unemployment Cause Credit Card Debt?

Unemployment often causes severe financial distress, especially in those who have little money in savings. If you have credit cards you might be tempted to use them when available cash is low.…
Can a Third-Party Collection Agency Collect Interest?

Even if you know exactly how much you owed your credit card company when it charged off your debt, don’t be too surprised if the bill you receive from the third-party collection agency that purchased…
How to Be Safe Using a Credit Card Online

Some people hesitate to enter their credit card information online due to fear of having their personal information swiped. But rather than avoid online shopping or paying bills online, learn…
What Happens When You Get Sued By a Loan Company?

A loan company will need to file a lawsuit and obtain a court judgment against you before it can force you to pay any money owed. This is a process that requires a minimum of several months and…
Can a Person Be Sued Through Credit Card Reduction Processes?

A credit card reduction process is better known as debt settlement. Debt settlement allows reduction of credit card debt by paying off individual cards for less than the full balance. Savings are…
How Long Can You Have Unpaid Debt Before it Goes Away?

Unpaid debt that is delinquent can keep you from qualifying for a mortgage or getting an automobile loan at a favorable rate. Delinquent debts are listed on credit reports for seven years, usually as…
Help With Credit Card Debt in California

If you live in California and have credit card debts you cannot pay, you can be sued or have your wages garnished. Fortunately, both state and federal laws allow honest California residents to…
Credit Card Debt After Death in California

If a spouse or loved one has passed away in California owing a significant amount of credit card debt, it’s wise to be aware of state laws governing this situation. While it’s possible that the debt…
Can I Include Credit Card Debt & Home in a Bankruptcy?

Bankruptcy can be a way to deal with unmanageable debt. If you file for bankruptcy successfully, in some circumstances you may be able to see some or all of your unsecured debt wiped away. Some types…
Am I Liable for My Parents’ Medical Bills When They Die?

The high cost of health care services is a common concern among consumers. Elderly individuals typically require more medical care than younger individuals. Although programs such as Medicare provide…
The Maximum Amount That Can Be Garnished From Wages in Virginia

The state of Virginia allows creditors to garnish wages to recover unpaid debts from consumers. Title III of the Consumer Credit Protection Act sets the federal limit on the amount an employer can…
How Much Can a Credit Card Garnish My Wages?

If you default on your credit-card payment agreement, the creditor can take measures to collect the unpaid debt. In some cases, it sells the debt to a debt-collection agency or hires an attorney to…
I’m Being Sued: How Will This Affect My Credit?

If getting sued doesn’t cause enough to worry about, apart from the legal fees and time involved, you should be aware that a lawsuit may also impact your credit score. While not all lawsuits impact…
What Percentage of Wages Can Be Garnished in Illinois

The state of Illinois is one of many that allow creditors to garnish a debtor’s wages. Many states adopt the federal withholding limit for ordinary wage garnishments, however, Illinois has its own…
Can I Be Sued on a Charged Off Credit Card?

If you fail to make your credit card payment, your credit card issuer may “charge off” your account. Not only are charge-offs the No. 1 reason why creditors get denied new loans, according to Steve…
What Happens to Debt When the Dollar Collapses?

The value of a currency is always in flux as economic conditions shift and other currencies rise and fall in value relative to one another. The U.S. dollar is not exempt from these fluctuations,…
If You Are an Authorized Credit Card User Can Your Wages Be Garnished?

In general, your wages are subject to garnishment anytime a creditor wins a lawsuit against you while you are employed. Fortunately, credit card companies and the collection agencies they employ do…
Is a Husband Responsible for His Wife’s Credit Card Debt Even If His Name Is Not on the Card?

Married couples often pool their financial resources to pay down joint debts. Being married, however, does not necessarily mean that both parties are equally responsible for debts that each holds…
Is It Easy for a Collection Company to Garinsh Wages for a Small Amount?

Many people responsibly try to use debt reduction and elimination methods such as refinancing and settlement to get back on their feet financially, but not everyone who does this is successful. Other…
Can You Apply for a Credit Card Based on a Spouse’s Income?

Applying for a credit card is a relatively easy and straightforward process. A standard application will ask for your employer information and income. As of March 2011, you can apply for a credit card…
What Happens If I Don’t Go to Court for a Credit Card?

When you stop making payments on your credit cards, the credit card company considers your account in default. The credit agreement you signed when you opened your account is a contract between you…
Am I Liable for My Deceased Father’s Debt?

If your father leaves debt behind when he passes away, collection agencies may contact you to attempt to recoup the money. Despite what they say, you probably don’t have to pay your father’s debt. You…
Is My Spouse’s Debt on My Credit Report?

Your credit report contains your financial history, such as credit you have received and whether you’ve paid your loans and credit cards on time. When you get married, your financial situation may…
What Happens if You Are Served for an Unpaid Credit Card?

When a court process server or local sheriff serves you papers for an unpaid credit card, it means the credit card company is suing you for the unpaid balance on your account, plus court costs. The…
Can I Be Sued After the Credit Collection Statute of Limitations?

Debt collectors are not supposed to sue you once your state’s statute of limitations for bill collection passes, but some disregard the law and file a court case anyways. Technically, you should be…
Maryland Law on Credit Card Debt Upon Death

In most states, outstanding debts are covered by the estate assets during the probate process, or they are written off if an estate is declared insolvent. Maryland handles estate debt in the same…
Can I Take Money Out of My Credit Card?

Credit card transactions typically involve the electronic transfer of money from your credit line to the bank account of the business or vendor that accepted your card for payment. However, if you…
Can a Credit Card Company Debt Become a Mortgage?

If you don’t pay your credit card debt and your credit card company obtains a judgment against you, your credit card debt can take on some characteristics of a mortgage. This is because your creditor…
What a Judgment on Debt Means

If you have unsecured debt and don’t meet your payment obligations, your creditor can’t take any of your assets without a lawsuit. If your creditor successfully sues you, it has a judgment against you…
What Items Do I Send to the Credit Bureau When Someone Dies?

While a death in the family can be emotionally destabilizing, you should act swiftly to notify the major credit bureaus and stop thieves from trying to use the deceased’s financial data. Scam artists…
Wages and Tips

A number of professions, typically in the service industry, receive tips. Tips can be a way for people who work hard or in the right establishment to earn substantial amounts of extra cash. There are…
What Happens to Credit Card Debt When You Die in Texas?

Credit card debt is one of the most common types of debt Americans carry aside from their mortgage. When you pass away, your spouse, heirs or estate administrator must take on the task of informing…
Can a Collection Agency Collect on a Debt That Was Charged Off?

If you fall behind on your credit card payments, your debt may eventually reach the “charge-off” stage. Although the name may sound as if your debt no longer exists, why it really means is that your…
Is the Wife Responsible for Her Husband’s Credit Card Debt After He Dies?

Dealing with the death of a loved one can be traumatic. When it’s your husband who died, things may seem worse because you must deal with the paperwork and legalities on your own. Getting contacted…
Do the Debtors Make the Family Pay the Debt in Full When a Person Dies?

When a family member dies, it can be devastating to everyone involved. If the person who passed away also carried a lot of outstanding debt, surviving family members may have the added burden of…
Can I Be Sued for Back Child Support?

Both parents must provide some degree of support for their biological or adopted children. Generally, one parent has physical custody of the child and the other parent must pay child support. If you…
Can You Garnish Wages in Michigan for Credit Card Debt?

In Michigan, your wages can be garnished for credit card debt, but only after your creditor has exhausted all other collection options. Wage garnishment is not something your credit card company can…
Laws Regarding Credit Cards

Federal regulations in the United States concerning fair credit aim to protect the consumer, while permitting creditors to collect what is owed to them. Consumers who receive a regular credit card…
What Does it Mean to Have a Credit Card Company Discharge a Debt?

Credit card companies are very good at pointing out your legal responsibility to pay your debt. This is not necessarily a bad thing, because it prevents people from abusing the credit card companies.…
To Collect a Debt Can Someone Put a Hold on Your Checking Account?

Holds are placed on checking accounts through a process called garnishment. Credit card companies and debt collectors commonly use garnishment to collect unpaid debts. However, garnishment is a very…
Is It Worth Paying Back a Collection Agency?

When a creditor cannot collect from you, it will usually write off your account and transfer the account to a third party for collection. These third-party debt collectors, or “collection agencies,”…
What Happens if I’m Summoned by a Court From a Credit Card Company?

A court summons for credit card debt is a serious issue and could lead to a monetary judgment and possible garnishment of bank accounts or wages. People who fail to respond to summonses automatically…
I Need a Major Credit Card

Credit cards are credit lines that allow you to borrow money to make purchases and perform transactions. Visa, MasterCard, American Express and discover are the major credit card companies in the U.S.…
My Credit Card Company Has Been Misreporting

Credit report mistakes can drain hundreds of points off a credit score, and fixing them is not always simple, because the credit dispute system is mostly automated. Going to a credit bureau should be…
What Happens to a First Mortgage If the Second Mortgage Forecloses?

Sometimes homeowners take out a second mortgage on their homes, only to find that unexpected life events prevent them from being able to afford the payment. Many borrowers in this situation will skip…
How Does Credit Card Debt Affect a Family?

Credit card debt can affect many aspects of life. Often people do not pay attention to the amount of credit card debt they are accumulating until they have a difficult time making payments or they…
Is North Carolina a Communal State for Divorce Debt?

North Carolina, like most other states in the Union, divides marital property and debt under the laws of equitable distribution. This means that a court can make either party directly or indirectly…
Can a Person Be Sued by Multiple Credit Card Companies?

Some people with extreme financial problems find themselves fending off multiple credit card lawsuits from different card companies. There simply are no provisions for combining the accounts or…
Can You Still Deal With the Credit Card Company If You’re Being Sued?

Credit card lawsuits are serious matters and sometimes lead to court judgments and even wage garnishment. A lawsuit is usually a last resort for collecting debt after months or even years of other…
When Credit Cards Are Settled Am I Responsible for the Differences As Taxes?

In a desperate search for a way to get out of debt you may have gone to a debt settlement company and had you been lucky, settled the account for 25 cents on the dollar. Now, you might have a new…
How Much Can Someone Garnishee My Wages?

Borrowers typically intend to pay what they owe, but sometimes financial difficulties make this a challenge, or borrowers refuse to pay a debt based on principle or unresolved disputes. If you do not…
Can I Get a Credit Card to Transfer My Balance if My Debt Is High?

If you have a lot of debt, transferring your balance to a new credit card may help you manage your finances. However, you may need to meet eligibility requirements to qualify for a balance transfer.…
Is it Legal to Garnish Wages in Georgia?

Georgia follows federal regulations for wage garnishment. This means the state has no separate laws for garnishment and instead opts to allow federal law to take precedence. Georgia law does maintain…
Am I in Debt?

Debt is any money owed to a person or company. In the U.S. as in most parts of the world, debt is a part of daily life. People borrow money that they must then pay back for a variety of reasons,…
Florida Foreclosure Laws on Garnished Wages

After the court grants a judgment or order, such as for child support or alimony, the money can be collected by any means necessary. A common way to obtain the money is through seizing property or…
How Can I Get Life Insurance When I’m on Disability?

People in good health typically do not have problems qualifying for at least basic life insurance, although some pay more in premiums due to the way the insurance company has categorized them. When…
What is Your Credit Card Debt Responsibility in a Divorce?

A lot of property division law amounts to debt division for many American couples. Illnesses, layoffs and poor purchasing decisions can leave you and your soon-to-be-ex mired in debt. Since many…
Who Can Garnish Wages in Texas?

Usually, when a debtor owes a creditor money and the creditor receives a civil judgment against him, the creditor can make a motion to garnish the debtor’s wages or another form of income. However,…
Divorce and Debt

Many people think about dividing marital property when it comes to divorce; who will get the house, who will get what car and whether or not to split the retirement accounts are all key issues in…
Do I Have to Pay for a Credit Card With My Husband’s Name on It When He Passes Away?

The death of a spouse is a difficult enough event without worrying about how your spouse’s debts will affect you. If your husband has racked up credit card debt, your responsibility for servicing…
Can Credit Card Debt Be Attached to a Home?

When you find yourself in a significant amount of credit card debt, you may be worried about what the credit card companies could do to try to get their money. Credit card debt is not originally tied…
The Truth About 0% Credit Cards

“There are no free lunches” has become a cliché for a reason. While 0 percent sounds good on paper, that cheap hamburger may end up costing closer to a filet mignon. Handled properly, however,…
What If I Pay a Debt Collection Agency?

When you do not pay bills on time, the original creditor can turn the account over to a collection agency. Then, representatives of that company will likely start writing and calling you to demand…
Wages, Tips & Other Compensation

“Wages, tips and other compensation” is a phrase that may sound like financial jargon to many individuals. It is actually a phrase referring to the federal taxable income of an individual employee.…
Can My Wages Be Garnished in Pennsylvania?

When a person won’t pay a debt, the creditor may attempt to extract payment by force. This can be accomplished in a number of ways, with one of the most effective being the garnishment of a person’s…
Can My Bank Account Be Frozen by a Collection Agency if Two People Are on the Account?

When a person owes money to a creditor and refuses to pay after repeated requests for payment, the creditor may take the debtor to court. If the creditor wins his cases, the judge hearing the case…
Credit Score 101

The first thing to know about the credit score it that it is a complicated matrix on which an action, like opening a credit account, can impact one consumer’s score quite differently from another…
My Credit Card Is Being Used by Someone Else

Unauthorized use of a credit credit is an unfortunate event in anyone’s financial life. A cardholder’s mind flashes to thousands of dollars worth of charges, a ruined credit score and a messy process…
Can You Be Taken to Court on an Old Credit Card Debt?

If you fail to pay back your credit card debts, you not only face the prospect of a damaged credit score and difficulty in getting a new loan, but your creditors also can sue you to recover the money.…
Has Anyone Had Their Car Seized Due to a Credit Card Judgment?

If a credit card company has a judgment against you, your vehicle may be in danger of being repossessed. Regardless of how responsibly you send car payments to your auto lender, credit card companies…
Can Wages Be Garnished Through a Prepaid Credit Card?

When a person has debts that are outstanding and delinquent with a creditor, he always runs the risk that he will become the target of a lawsuit seeking collection of these debts. In such a case, the…
Will I Be Sued When I Enroll in a Debt Settlement Company?

A person who is the target of a creditor may try a number of different ways of getting out of debt. These can include restructuring payments to creditors, as well as cutting back on expenses. However,…
Can You Be Sued From a Collection Agency?

Depending on the age of a credit account and the amount of debt owed, a collection agency may move beyond phone collection to file a lawsuit in civil court to recoup the funds. If a collection agency…
Joint Divorce Debt

One of the harshest things to face in a debt division is having to take responsibility for part of your soon-to-be-ex’s debt load when you may not have enjoyed anything she bought running it up.…
Can Credit Card Companies Garnish Your Wages Without Going to Court?

Running up a large debt on a credit card can have a number of bad consequences for the debtor. Among them is the prospect of being sued in civil court for the amount owed. If the company wins, the…
Credit Repair and Debt Solution

If you’re struggling with bad credit, fixing your credit and improving your credit score will make your life easier. There is no single credit repair solution that meets every consumer’s needs.…
How to Stop Capital One Calls

With more than $50 billion in credit card account receivables, Capital One of McLean, Virginia, is one of the largest credit card issuers in the United States. Capital One was founded in 1988, by…
Will a Good Income Get Me a Bank Credit Card?

When you apply for a bank credit card, you are essentially applying for a loan with a flexible, also called revolving, line of debt. To qualify for this loan, you have to prove to the bank that you…
What Can They Garnish for Credit Card Debt?

Credit card debt can cause a person an enormous amount of stress. If a person is late paying his credit card bill, the credit card company will often add penalties to the principal of the loan and…
Help to Resolve Debt

There is a connection between high debts and a lower credit rating, even when you never miss a payment. But by working to resolve debt and manage your finances responsibly, you can improve your credit…
Can a Company Garnish My Wages in Texas?

Texas is one of the few states that do not allow creditors or debt collectors to garnish a debtor’s wages. This protection includes collection for debts covered under the Fair Debt Collection…
Credit Card Options to Build Your Credit

When you’re first establishing credit or rebuilding after a financial meltdown, you may become frustrated with the credit card companies because you usually need to have credit to apply for credit.…
Statute of Limitations for Consumer Debt in Vermont

When a consumer debt can’t repay his debts in a timely manner, he may be subject to a creditor’s collection lawsuit. If the creditor’s lawsuit results in a judgment against the debtor, actions used to…
Can Wages Be Garnished for Credit Card Debt?

Wages are potentially subject to garnishment if you fail to repay a legitimate debt. Credit card companies generally write off bad debt as a loss and sell the debt at a discount to collection…
What Are the Laws on Re-Aged Debt?

Credit card debt that’s legally re-aged can help consumers who are in financial trouble. However, companies that are seeking to recoup old debts from consumers may attempt to illegally re-age their…
Person Responsible for a Credit Card Debt of a Deceased

One of the difficult parts of losing a loved one is sorting out her financial affairs. This is particularly tricky if the person died owing money. When this happens, the person sorting out her estate…
Does a Collection Agency Ever Sell a Debt Back?

When a person takes out a debt, he signs a contract that obligates him to pay back the debt under specific terms, such as at a particular rate of interest. This contract functions very much like any…
Will I Get Sued for Credit Card Debt?

The answer to the question “Will I get sued for credit card debt?” proves complex. Federal laws, state laws and the debt collection options available to creditors weigh heavily on whether a credit…
My Charge-off Was Sold to a Collection Agency

When a person does not pay back a debt to the creditor, the creditor will often charge the debt off, declaring to a credit reporting agency that it will not be able to collect on it. While this will…
Can a Wife File Chapter 7 With a Husband If All the Debt Is in the Husband’s Name?

Bankruptcy is a legal procedure that provides honest but unfortunate debtors who do not have the ability to repay their debts a means of obtaining a fresh financial start without the burden of onerous…
Does Adding Someone to Your Credit Account Help Their Credit?

It can be hard to watch a loved one struggle to regain credit footing after amassing debt, especially on the heels of unforeseen circumstances such as losing a job or undergoing expensive emergency…
Can You Keep Your Vehicle With a Discharged Bankruptcy?

There are two common types of bankruptcy: liquidation and reorganization. With a reorganization bankruptcy, you follow the court’s repayment plan to pay your debts. With a liquidation bankruptcy, the…
How to Transfer a Personal Check to Someone Else

You can endorse personal checks to others — often called “signing over” a check — if you follow the proper steps. Transferring a personal check is beneficial if money is owed to another party. It…
What Happens to the First Mortgage When the Second Forecloses?

What happens to another mortgage after a foreclosure depends heavily on several factors, including the time of the mortgage, when and whether the mortgage was recorded and any agreements between the…
South Carolina Credit Card Debt Collection Law

If you do not pay your credit card bills on time, the lender has the legal right to turn the debt over to a collection agency. But several South Carolina state laws, as well as the federal Fair Debt…
How Does Credit Card Debt Arbitration Work?

Per the terms of the credit card contract, most credit card companies require mandatory binding arbitration in the event of a dispute with the cardholder. When you sign the contract with the company…
What Do I Do If I Can’t Pay My Mortgage?

Not being able to pay the mortgage can strike terror in your heart as you envision the sheriff coming to throw your family and your belongings out on the street without warning. In reality, losing…
Help: I Can’t Pay My Mortgage

Buying the house that you want and subsequently discovering that you’re having trouble affording it is an all too common occurrence. Crushing monthly payments can compromise a budget to the point that…
Statute of Limitations to Collect Debt in Connecticut

Connecticut law regarding the statute of limitations for enforcing debts varies depending on the basis for the debt. Different limitation periods also apply after the debt has been made into a…
Does Being a Homemaker Affect Your Credit Score?

The daily tasks of being a homemaker may not require you to handle credit, but this does not mean you have a poor FICO credit score. In fact, you may have a great one. Not having a employer can affect…
Joint Debt After a Divorce

Managing debt after a divorce can be tricky. A credit account is binding upon all account holders, regardless of marital status. If you have joint credit or debt and a judge orders your ex-spouse to…
The Average Household Credit-Card Debt in the U.S.

Credit cards make life easier in a number of ways: they serve as an emergency cushion when unexpected financial crises arise, facilitate online transactions and permit larger purchases that can be…
How to Beat Arbitration for Credit Card Debts

In you are subject to “forced arbitration” in a credit card dispute, this means that you give up your right to go to court. This is harmful for consumers who are victims of fraud and predatory…
Can They Garnish My Wages for Not Paying a Credit Card?

When you apply and get approved for a credit card, it is with the understanding that you will repay all charges you make on your account plus interest. If you fail to pay as agreed, you have defaulted…
Bankruptcy & Joint Credit Cards With a Family Member

You could find yourself liable for the amount owed on a joint credit card if the other cardholder declares bankruptcy. Discharge depends on the type bankruptcy you declare and if the co-holder is your…
Recovery From Bank Debt

When a person takes money from a bank in the form of a loan, the bank will generally require that he pay back the money within a set period of time, at a specific rate of interest. If the person fails…
The Minimum Debt for Bankruptcy

Debtors who have far more debt than income may consider filing for bankruptcy. Bankruptcy can be attractive because it offers the debtor a chance to start over, although it leaves a negative mark on…
Can a Credit Card Company Take Your Home in a Suit?

Not paying your credit card bills will result in collection activity by your creditors. You may receive numerous letters and phone calls asking you to pay your debts. You can stop picking up your mail…
My Spouse Used My Credit Cards: Am I Responsible?

In a household, many family members can split a credit card. Although the credit card might be in a single family member’s name, the family member who the credit card is assigned to can give…
Can a Spouse Be Sued for Her Husband’s Debt?

When a couple take the marriage vow to support each other “for better or for worse,” outstanding debt probably is the last thing on their minds. In certain situations, however, married couples share…
How Much Debt Does the Average Person Have?

The average amount of personal debt in the United States has been steadily higher than the average amount of savings per person for a number of years. Although the total amount of personal debt has…
Effects on a Spouse’s Credit Score of a Credit Card Default Because of a Wife’s Death

A wife’s death is certainly a traumatic event. In addition to emotional grief, funeral expenses and related issues may cause financial problems, including default on a credit card owned by the spouse.…
Debt and the Death of a Spouse

The death of a spouse is an emotional time. As the surviving spouse, you must work through your grief even as you make arrangements to handle your deceased partner’s estate including debts. The laws…
Can Credit Card Companies Garnish My Spouse’s Wages?

Unpaid credit card debts can affect both you and your spouse in some situations. Depending on the kind of card you have, a creditor might be able to garnish your spouse’s wages to recover the debt.…
Death of a Spouse & Debt

Dealing with the death of a spouse is hard enough without having to worry about financial matters, but unfortunately, dealing with any debt your spouse left behind is crucial to avoid trouble down the…
Who Can You Contact for Help If You’re Being Hounded by Credit Agencies?

Most people who have owed a debt or have been late with a bill payment know the feeling of being harassed by phone calls and letters. Bill collectors have a large stake in trying to convince…
I Am Being Sued for Old Credit Card Debt

If you have old debt on which you have defaulted, there may come a day when you get a court summons in the mail — the creditor is suing you. This can happen often with credit card debt. Knowing your…
What Is the Relationship Between Credit Cards & Your Credit History?

Credit card companies report your payment history, how you use your available credit and the length of time your credit accounts have been open to the major credit bureaus. The credit bureaus then put…
A Wife’s Responsibility for Her Husband’s Debt

When you get married, you promise to take your husband “for richer or for poorer.” However, this doesn’t necessarily mean taking responsibility for his debts. If you marry a debtor, you aren’t…
Why Unused Credit Cards Are Being Closed

In the wake of the credit crisis of 2008, some credit card issuers are giving customers the ultimatum to use their account or lose it. Closing inactive accounts usually saves the issuers money and…
When Delinquent Credit Card Companies Can Put a Hold on a Checking Account

Falling into debt and failing to pay back your credit cards can lead to serious consequences. In some debt situations, a credit card company can freeze or hold your bank account, preventing you from…
Can Being Added to Someone Else’s Credit Card Improve My Credit?

Your parents have good credit. You, not so much. You may wonder if you could improve your credit by having one or both of your parents add you to their credit cards. Under the most recent credit…
Insurance That Will Pay the Mortgage if a Spouse Dies

For many people, a mortgage is the largest debt they pay. These people may fear that if they die early they will leave their family with a large mortgage debt that they might struggle to pay. One…
Can Banks Take Checking Accounts If You Default on Credit Cards?

If you take out a loan using a credit card, you are legally obligated to pay it back within a specified time period. If you don’t, the company has several options to force you to pay. Among these is…
What Happens to a Second Mortgage When the First Forecloses?

Your first mortgage buys your house, but your second mortgage uses your house to raise money. A second mortgage — also known as a home equity loan or home equity line of credit — is a loan using…
Can Your Employer Garnish Your Wages for a Company Phone Bill?

Workers commonly use their employer’s phone at work for various reasons. Some employees may be required to use the phone to conduct business, while others may be allowed to use the phone for personal…
Paying Interest & Fees on Collection Agency Debt

If a person defaults on a personal debt he will likely face pressure to pay off his debt. The creditor may choose to pressure the debtor itself or it may outsource the task to a collection agency.…
Am I Responsible for Wife’s Credit Card Debt Prior to the Marriage in New York?

New York state residents are not responsible for their spouse’s premarital debts. Even during marriage, you can’t usually be held responsible for your spouse’s debts if hers is the only name on the…
Would Adding Someone Else to My Credit Card Account Help Build Their Credit?

Adding a person to your credit card account won’t by itself harm or help the other person’s credit score. As with all loans and credit transactions, it is your credit activity that affects both…
Can Wages Be Garnished After Foreclosure?

When a person is unable to pay back the loan he used to pay for his home, the lender may seize the home as collateral on the debt — a process known as foreclosure. When a home is foreclosed on, the…
Can You Take Money out of a Credit Card?

Money is withdrawn from a credit card account through a transaction called a cash advance. Advances are available through automated teller machines (ATMs) or inside the bank. They are easy to obtain,…
What Happens When You Are Sued for Debt?

Over time, debts you don’t pay pass from creditor to creditor. This process continues until you either pay the debt or one of the debt buyers files a lawsuit against you. Your state’s laws determine…
Arbitration of Credit Card Debt

When you have a dispute with a credit card company, you typically have to deal with it through the arbitration process. Arbitration is much like going to court except that it has nothing to do with…
How Much Social Security Benefit Does a Person Get Upon the Death of a Spouse?

Taking care of finances becomes a priority after the loss of a spouse. Social Security provides life insurance benefits to spouses for workers who had sufficient work credits during their lifetime.…
Who’s Responsible for Your Credit Card Debt If You Die?

If you die leaving behind credit card debts, what happens to that debt depends upon several factors. In general, your credit card debts are not inherited by your heirs, but that doesn’t necessarily…
My Credit Card Company Keep Raising My Balance on a Defaulted Card

If you miss a payment or two on your credit card accounts, the company will consider that account in default until you catch up on minimum payments due. Defaulting on credit card payments has a number…
Do Credit Cards Verify Income?

Income has little to do with whether a credit card company approves your loan, because it relies almost exclusively on your numerical credit score rating. Lying about income on a credit application is…
What Will Happen When I Go to Court for a Credit Card Civil Suit?

If you default on your credit card debts, your creditors may act to get their money back. If phone calls and letters go unanswered, your creditors may sue. The purpose of a credit card lawsuit is to…
Can a Credit Card Company Take the Funds Out of My Checking Account?

Bank garnishment allows credit card companies to take money from your checking account, but several things have to happen before this is possible. The credit card company has to sue you for…
What Does a Settlement Do to My Credit?

Debt settlement is considered a negative credit event and hurts your credit score, potentially making it difficult or impossible to receive credit at competitive rates for a while. Debt settlement…
A Bankruptcy Discharge and Credit Card Debt

The bankruptcy courts exclude certain debts from a bankruptcy, including taxes, judgments and student loans. Other debts, such as car loans, installment loans and unsecured debt like that from credit…
Collection Laws in South Carolina for Credit Card Debt

South Carolina debt collection laws, contained in Title 37 Chapter 5 of the South Carolina Code, SCC, closely mirror the laws set by the federal government under the Fair Debt Collection Practices…
Debt Equalization & Divorce

Debt division in divorce can be a tough job, made all the more difficult by child support, spousal support and the addition of a new set of living expenses. Although parties may perceive that their…
What Wages May Be Garnished?

When you get into debt, one of the potential consequences of not making payments on the debt is wage garnishment. This is a process by which a creditor takes part of your paycheck every time you get…
Can a Credit Card Lien Take Money Out of a Checking Account?

Credit card companies and other debt collectors can place a lien on your property, such as a house. The lien forces you to satisfy the debt to the credit card company if you sell the property. The…
Can My Second Mortgage Come After Me If My First Mortgage Foreclosed in California?

The typical “mortgage” arrangement in California is not a mortgage but a deed of trust. One property can have multiple deeds of trust, and if one of the lenders forecloses, it will erase the rights of…
Does the Original Credit Card Company Have to Provide a Signed Contract in a Lawsuit?

By signing a contract with a credit card company you agree to the company’s terms and conditions, including that which requires you to make regular payments. If you stop making payments, the credit…
Debt Issues & Death

When an individual dies, it may be unclear who is responsible for paying any debts. The responsibility for paying usually falls to the estate and its executor. Prior to distribution of assets, the…
Is My Spouse Responsible for My Mortgage?

If your spouse is concerned about debts, such as a mortgage, that you have brought into the marriage or have taken on during the marriage, it could be because he is wary of being held responsible for…
Is it Possible to File Bankruptcy After Five Years in Kentucky?

Filing for bankruptcy is one of the most serious financial decisions you can make. While you can wipe out your debt, you may have to give up some of your assets. Bankruptcy exemptions dictate what you…
Am I Liable for My Husband’s Debt?

Your liability for your husband’s debt depends on where you live, the account terms and the type of debt involved. You should not assume responsibility for outstanding debts unless there is proof of…
The Minimum Amount of Debt Necessary to File Bankruptcy

No matter how small your debts, you can file bankruptcy. If you’re filing Chapter 13 bankruptcy, however, there’s a maximum limit to how big your debts can be. In Chapter 7, you may be limited by…
Can I Be Sued by a Collection Agency Over a Car I Had Repossessed?

Having your car repossessed can make a bad financial situation worse by taking away your transportation; it can also be a blow to the ego. To add insult to injury, you might even get a collection…
Credit Card Problems

Credit cards offer an easy way to conduct daily financial transactions. These financial instruments can help you build a credit history and may be helpful in emergency situations. Some transactions…
A Spouse’s Responsibility in Bankruptcy

Nothing requires you and your spouse to file bankruptcy together. You can file even if your spouse doesn’t agree with your decision. Even if you file separately, your spouse will have to provide the…
Can Wages Be Garnished for Medical Bills?

Medical bills are considered unsecured debt, meaning that there is no collateral to cover them. As with debt incurred with credit cards or personal loans, an unsecured creditor must first sue and win…
Am I Responsible for My Spouse’s Credit Card Debt?

Spouses with irresponsible spending habits or poor money management skills not only cause stress in a marriage but may also impact your ability to obtain loans, qualify for rentals and even to be…
Can a Credit Card Company Garnishee My Bank Accounts Without First Giving Me Notice?

A consumer who has purchased items with a credit card is obligated to make payments on time every month. If he falls behind or stops making payments, the credit card company will try to get the money…
Is Credit Card Debt Discharged in Bankruptcy?

Bankruptcy allows people with financial worries to partially or fully discharge approved debts through their nearest division of the United States Bankruptcy Court. While some debts cannot be…
Bankrupting Credit Card Debt Laws

The United States Trustee Program reported data from bankruptcy cases closed between 2000 and 2002. This data showed that nearly $20 billion in credit card debt was discharged in Chapter 7 bankruptcy…
Can a Bank Garnish My Salary to Pay the Mortgage?

When you stop sending mortgage payments to the bank, your lender will pursue collection activity against you. This includes calling you at home or at work, making negative reports to the credit…
What Happens With a Mortgage When Foreclosing?

If you have a mortgage on a property and can no longer afford the regular payments, your lender may decide to foreclose. A foreclosure means that the lender takes possession of the property and sells…
The Florida Divorce Law on Debt

In Florida, courts will divide marital property and liabilities using the state’s equitable property distribution laws. Divorcing spouses can divide their marital assets and liabilities through…
Can a Credit Card Company Garnishee or Freeze Wages?

With Americans swimming in debt, the issue of wage garnishment routinely arises in the workplace and courts. Credit card companies seek garnishment when you are delinquent in your payments but have…
Am I Responsible for a Spouse’s Debt After a Separation?

A legal separation is a way in which married couples can divide marital interests while still remaining married. Who is responsible for the marital debts in any legal separation differs from case to…
Is Tax Debt Bankruptable?

Bankruptcy is a process by which you can get a court order, known as a discharge, that eliminates most, if not all, of your debts. Typically, you cannot discharge tax debt in a bankruptcy, as the…
Can a Mortgage Company Garnish Wages?

When a person takes out a home loan, this loan is nearly always secured by the home itself, which acts as collateral. If the person goes into default on the home loan, the company that issued the…
Is the Spouse Responsible If the Death of Spouse Is With Credit Card Debt?

The death of a spouse is devastating. It can also be financially complicated, especially if the deceased partner had significant credit card debt. As the surviving spouse, you should be aware of both…
Can 401k Funds Be Subject to Garnishment for Credit Card Debt?

A 401k plan’s assets cannot be taken from you to satisfy a creditor’s claim in most instances. In the case of credit card debt, the creditor cannot take your 401k plan assets. If the creditor sues…
What Happens to Credit When You Get Divorced?

Divorce, regardless of how easy or difficult the process is, usually affects both your credit and your spouse’s. While your divorce isn’t directly listed on your credit report, the effects of…
Can a Credit Card Company Take Money Out of My Checking?

Imagine the shock and panic of discovering that money is missing from your checking account. Upon further investigation, you discover that your credit card company withdrew funds from your account…
Can Credit Card Debts Be Garnished From Wages?

Credit card debts can be garnished from wages. In fact, credit card debt, along with alimony and child support, is one of the leading uses of wage garnishment.
What Options Are Available When a Civil Suit Has Been Filed by a Credit Card Company?

The options available to a credit card debtor who has been sued for defaulting on his payment obligations are rather limited. However, there are affirmative steps each debtor/defendant should take to…
Do I Have to Repay Credit Card Debt?

A credit card allows the consumer to make purchases on the card now and pay the bill later. This isn’t free money, however. This extension of credit comes with responsibility and therefore, it’s…
Can Wages Be Garnished for Medical Collection?

When a person undergoes medical treatment, he will often be billed after, not before the treatment. When this happens, the person is legally obligated to pay the money that the medical facility…
Can I End Up Paying Taxes on a Charged-Off Debt & Have it Sold to a Third-Party Collection Agency?

A charge-off occurs when a creditor has deemed a debt to be noncollectible and writes the debt off as an expense, thereby, reducing its taxable income. Having the balance on your credit card written…
Debt Recovery Solutions

When it comes time to turn your commitment to financial freedom into action, you may be confused about where to start. The answer is different for everyone, depending on each person’s specific…
What Does a Discharged Mortgage Mean?

A discharge is a designation that a mortgage — or any loan — officially has ended. This is an important step for many borrowers, because how the mortgage ends, or how its payments are dealt with,…
Can My Wages Be Garnished in Tennessee for a Credit Debt That I Haven’t Paid?

Having unpaid debt weighs heavily on you, and fearing your wages will be garnished can cause distress and worry. Tennessee has laws that govern wage garnishment. While your wages can be garnished for…
I Am Struggling With Debt

Debt often starts small but slowly accumulates over time. It is easy to overspend one month thinking the money will be available the next. Eventually, debt can practically consume an individual’s…
South Carolina Debt Laws

Federal laws such as the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act help protect residents of South Carolina. Even when someone owes a credit card company or similar business money, they still have a number…
Can My Wages Be Garnished to Pay Credit Cards?

When you can’t pay your credit card bills, you’re faced with two options. You can call your credit card company and admit you can’t pay everything you owe, and possibly get a break, or you can ignore…
How Much Credit Card Debt Can I Be Sued For?

When a person takes out a credit card account, he is taking out a line of credit with a finance company. In all cases, the debtor will be required to sign a contract outlining the terms under which…
Can a Credit Card Company Garnish Your Wages in Georgia?

Credit card users who fall behind on their payments face a range of potential negative consequences, including lowered credit scores, increased interest rates and even lawsuits. A credit card company…
Can a Credit Card Company Access My Bank Account?

Credit card companies can access your bank account to withdraw money for a bad debt, but only after filing a lawsuit and gaining permission from a judge. You will be notified of that process every…
If You Are Sued for Credit Cards, Can They Take Your House?

When your credit card company sues your for failing to pay back the money you charged on the card, you face a range of possible consequences. While each credit card debt situation is different, it is…
What Steps Should You Take If You’re Summoned to Court for a Past Credit Card Debt?

When you receive a credit card and make purchases with that card, you are legally liable for the payments. If you run into financial difficulty, you have the option of discussing this with the company…
Can Your Paycheck Be Garnished for a Foreclosure?

It is possible that your paycheck could be garnished as a result of a foreclosure, but if it happens at all it could take years to begin. CNN reports that losing a home to foreclosure doesn’t…
The Credit Card Laws Regarding Past Due Payments

The Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility and Disclosure (CARD) Act went into effect in the U.S. in February 2010. While consumer advocates still say there is work to be done, the CARD Act…
Can I Be Held Responsible for Someone Else’s Credit Card Debt?

There are many ways to end up responsible for credit card debt that you did not personally accrue. Divorce, identity theft and simple clerical errors are all ways you can end up owing money without…
I Can’t Pay My Mortgage

The realization that you can’t make your monthly mortgage payment can create a feeling of helplessness or even panic. If you’re faced with this situation, the best thing to do is take action before…
Texas Law Regarding Credit Debt

Texas law protects residents against unfair collection practices and financial hardship due to most consumer debt. The law limits debt collector actions regarding garnishment and liens and protects…
Can Credit Card Companies Attach My Wages?

In most states, credit card companies can attach wages with a court order. Federal and state laws limit garnishment amounts for credit card debt and when the laws conflict, the rule benefiting the…
Credit Card Debt & Savings

People struggling with credit card debt often face the dilemma of saving versus paying down credit card debt. Theories regarding which option is best abound. While building up an emergency fund is…
Will I Take on My New Husband’s Debt?

While debt incurred before marriage can affect your household budget and finances, you are not responsible for paying any debt incurred by your spouse before marriage. To avoid unwittingly taking…
Credit Debt Rights

Consumer credit laws seek to protect cardholders by regulating how credit-card companies handle interest rates, credit customers’ payments and collect delinquent debts. Still, consumers need to pay…
Can I Be Sued in Pennsylvania for Personal Debt?

Companies and individuals can sue Pennsylvanians to collect any sort of debt as long as their lawsuits meet federal and state regulations for debt collections. However, consumers who are sued over…
What Wages Cannot Be Garnished?

Wage garnishment is a collection process creditors use when they have exhausted all other options to obtain payments from those who owe them money. In the garnishing process, a creditor takes a…
Wage Garnishments for Credit Card Debt

After charging too much on your credit cards, you might find yourself in a position where you cannot afford to make your minimum monthly payments. Once this goes on for several months, you could…
How Do You Close Out Credit Cards After Someone Dies?

The easiest way to cancel a credit card after a cardholder’s death depends on whether there’s any unpaid balance on the card. If there’s no balance, you may contact the credit card company and tell it…
I Lost My Job & Can’t Pay My Mortgage

Losing a job creates panic as you wonder how you’re going to pay your mortgage and other bills. Mortgage lenders anticipate that a percentage of borrowers will experience hardship. Foreclosure is…
Can My Wages Be Garnished for Credit Card Debt?

Not paying a credit card debt doesn’t make it go away. Unpaid credit card debt can follow you for years. It can remain on your credit report for up to seven years and may reduce the amount in your…
What Is the Most That Can Be Garnished Out of Wages in the State of Minnesota?

Wage garnishment is a way for a creditor or a collector to recover unpaid debt. Federal laws, such as Consumer Credit Protection Act, limit the amount that a creditor can withhold. Collectors must…
North Carolina State Laws for Credit Card Debt When Someone Dies

When a debtor dies, his estate must prioritize his debts in accordance with state laws and pay off as many debts as possible. North Carolina state law places an extremely low priority on credit card…
Debt After Death in Florida

While you won’t be around to worry about it, many people wonder what happens to their debts after death. Though there is no one single answer to this question, your debts, like all your estate…
Starting Wages for New RNs

Registered nurses, or RNs, form the largest occupation within the health care industry. In many cases, registered nurses are the first point of contact in hospitals, nursing homes and doctors offices.…
Can Wages Be Garnished for a Foreclosure?

After going through foreclosure, you might think that the worst part is over. While this might be the case in some situations, in other foreclosures, the lender might eventually be able to garnish…
What Does Discharged Loan Mean?

Discharged loans are a form of discharged debt. Simply defined, a discharged loan is when an outstanding debt has been forgiven. Nearly all loans can be discharged under the right circumstances,…
Credit Card Debt and the Death of a Spouse

While the death of a spouse is a difficult and trying emotional time, it also brings up financial concerns that can be hard to deal with. If your spouse dies leaving behind credit card debts, what…
Does Being Sued Affect Your Credit Score?

A lawsuit provides a civil method by which a business or individual can seek justice for a real or supposed wrong. The court then determines liability for the incident in question and, if the…
If My First Mortgage Forecloses, Am I Responsible for the Second Mortgage in California?

The difference between a first mortgage and a second mortgage is the date the mortgage was recorded at the county recorder’s office. The date of recording determines the priority of the mortgage.…
Resources for Teaching Kids About Credit Cards

Schools don’t typically teach students how to properly manage their finances. If you want your child to be financially responsible, you may need to teach him about money. Credit cards make it easy to…
If a Parent Dies Who Is Responsible for the Debt?

The death of a parent is a major event that can impact many areas of life including finances. If your parents have debt, creditors may attempt to collect debts when the last surviving parent dies. The…
What to Do if You’re Being Sued by a Credit Card Company in Small Claims Court

If you have credit card bills and are late making the payments, the credit card companies will begin collection actions. The companies have been known to call at various times during the day and…
Can a Credit Card Company Garnish Your Wages in Tennessee?

If you live in Tennessee and fall behind on paying off a debt, your creditor may be able to garnish your wages. While you can often prevent wage garnishment by working out a payment arrangement with…
Can Minimum Wages Be Garnished?

Debtors who default on their debt are sometimes subject to wage garnishment. Wage garnishment can be a scary and restrictive process, and no matter how you’re involved with it, you must understand its…
Debt After Death & the IRS

Dealing with the financial affairs of the deceased can be a tedious and unrewarding endeavor. Surviving family members must simultaneously deal with grief, burial issues, the disposition of the…
Am I Liable for My Mother’s Debt?

As a general rule, children are not liable for the debts their parents incur. Thus, in most cases, creditors cannot legally pursue you for payment of accounts your mother defaulted on–even if she…
Laws on Judgments in South Carolina

Judgments are legal rulings that provide for monetary relief to the judgment creditor. Judgment laws, exemptions and time limitations vary by state. Laws in South Carolina state that judgments are…
Can I File Taxes If I’m on SSI Disability?

One of the biggest misconceptions among taxpayers is that all Social Security benefit types are the same. The truth is, Social Security benefits are intended for different purposes, such as retirement…
Can a Credit Card Company Put a Hold on My Checking Account for a Past Due Debt?

Credit card companies have a variety of debt collection options at their disposal. Although your credit card company wants you to pay your minimum payment voluntarily each month, if you fail to do so,…
Severe Debt Problems

The problems caused by excessive debt can be subtle, but they often cause considerable damage to the debtor’s life and finances. Getting into debt can be very easy — simply run up a lot of bills on…
Will My Spouse Be Responsible for My Debt If I Die?

When engaging in estate planning, special consideration should be given to what will happen to your debts when you die. If you are married, you could potentially put your spouse in a negative…
What Percentage of Your Wages Can Be Garnished in Georgia?

If you owe money and have not paid your debt, a creditor can go to court and have a judgment sought against you. If a judge rules against you, a wage garnishment can be filed with your employer,…
Smart Debt Information

If you’re losing sleep over debt, you’re not alone. The Federal Trade Commission notes that at some point in their lives, many people experience financial difficulties that lead to collection notices…
The Responsibility for Medical Debt in a Divorce

Health care coverage and payment of ongoing medical bills are issues that should be dealt with in your divorce agreement. This is also the time to address the matter of any unpaid medical debt. That…
Am I Liable for My Husband’s Credit Card Debt in New York?

If your husband has significant credit card debts, this can be a troubling situation. It’s important to understand your own liability in cases where your spouse has a spending habit that seems out of…
Am I Responsible for a Relative’s Debt?

Your responsibility regarding a relative’s debt depends on the account type, your state of residency and your relationship to the account holder. Generally, you are not liable for debts you did not…
Can a Credit Card Company Take Money Out of My Bank Account for Past-Due Amounts?

A credit card company cannot take money from your bank account for past-due payments unless it is specifically authorized to do so by you — or by a court of law. Under normal circumstances the credit…
Ignoring Debt

Ignoring growing debt is probably the easiest thing to do when your mailbox is full of envelopes with “past due” bills. While it’s the easiest thing to do, ignoring debts you rightfully owe comes with…
Can You File Bankruptcy on Federal Taxes Owed?

Filing bankruptcy is a way to eliminate most of your outstanding debt, as long as you qualify. Certain debts are considered non-dischargeable by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, meaning you cannot remove…
If a Husband Leaves the Home, Will He Lose Legal Rights to That House?

While some couples wait to separate until the execution of a separation and property settlement agreement or the issuance of a court order, sometimes one party makes the unilateral decision to end the…
Can a Credit Card Company Garnish Wages If I Am on Workers’ Compensation?

Federal law prohibits a creditor from garnishing your workers’ compensation benefits. Read further to understand the rules regarding wage garnishment, including steps you need to take if a creditor is…
Can a Credit Card Company Garnish Wages in North Carolina?

Wage garnishment is the process by which an employer withholds part or all of an employee’s wages in order to pay off debts. The simple answer to the question, can a credit card company garnish wages…
The Basic Issues About Credit Card Debt for You to Be Aware Of

Between 2005 and 2010, America’s total “revolving credit” debt at any given time ranged between $800 billion and almost $1 trillion. Revolving credit accounts allow you to borrow up to a maximum, pay…
Tennessee Laws on Debt Recovery

If you believe bill collectors are harassing you, take comfort in knowing that there are guidelines, specifically the Fair Debt Collection Practices Laws, designed to prohibit abusive practices by…
What Is an Ex-Parte Divorce?

An ex parte divorce takes place when only one of the parties is present. Like most legal terms, the root of this comes from Latin and literally means “on one side only.” The ex parte proceedings have…
What Happens to Debt When You Get Divorced?

Unless a previous agreement is in place before divorce proceedings start, couples getting divorced must reach an agreement on how property and assets get divided between the two of them. What many…
Who Gets Stuck With His Debt if My Husband Dies?

The question of who gets stuck with the debt when a spouse dies is a common concern that can lead to a great deal of marital stress. There are numerous complicated factors involved in deciding how…
What Does Bankruptcy Fully Discharged Mean?

The bankruptcy discharge is the desired result from any bankruptcy case. If you follow court instructions and have not incurred any debt in a fraudulent manner, you can usually obtain a discharge,…
Can a Grandchild Inherit a Grandparent’s Debt?

After a relative dies, there is often a lot of paperwork to sort through. If you discover that a grandparent died while in debt, you need to forward any bills, promissory notes or contracts to the…
How to Protect Assets from a Law Firm Bankruptcy

Filing for bankruptcy protection safeguards your assets, at least temporarily, from being taken by law firms working for credit card companies or other debt collectors. After winning a lawsuit against…
Am I Responsible for My Spouse’s Company’s Debt?

You’re liable for the debts of your spouse’s company if you’re a part owner of the business. This gives creditors the green light to pursue you for the company’s debts. Furthermore, your liability may…
Debt Responsibility in Divorce

Divorcing couples commonly fight over issues like who gets the house and who has primary custody of the children, but debt issues are just as important. All assets and debts must be divided between…
Financial Rights in Divorce

A fundamental part of divorce is the division of financial assets and liabilities. Divorce financial issues can be complicated or simple, as no two divorces are identical. Each state has its own…
Consumer Rights When Sued by a Credit Card Company

A credit card company you have an account with can sue you in civil court for money owed. You, as a consumer, have the right to challenge the creditor in court to prevent the company from getting a…
Can My Mortgage Company Garnish My Wages If It Forecloses on My House?

Wage garnishment takes place when a debt is owed and is not repaid. If you owe money to a mortgage company, one of the options that it has — even if your house has been foreclosed — is to seek…
A Parent’s Responsibility to a Child’s Debt

Adult children sometimes call home asking for help paying off their debts, whether these are on credit cards, car loans, utility bills or student loans. There are a few cases in which parents are…
When Will a Credit Card Try to Garnish Your Wages?

Wage garnishment occurs when a creditor you leave unpaid, such as your credit card company, seizes a portion of your wages from your employer before you receive your paycheck. Because garnishment is a…
Is the Estate Responsible for the Deceased’s Credit Card Debt?

Signing a contract with a credit card company makes you liable for the purchases you make using any credit cards the company provides. Upon your death, you can no longer make payments—but the credit…
What to Do If You Lost a Job & Can’t Pay Mortgage

Losing a job not only impacts your emotional well-being, but also your ability to pay bills such as your mortgage. Even when receiving unemployment, the benefits may only cover the essentials such as…
What Steps to Take If You Are Being Sued for an Old Debt?

More companies are focusing on collecting old debts, hoping to profit from getting consumers to pay delinquent debts they may have accumulated several years ago. Some of these collection efforts are…
California Debt Laws

If you default on a debt, your original creditor may sell your account to a debt collection agency. Debt collection agencies contact debtors to attempt to collect the debt. Federal and state laws…
What Percentage of Your Earnings Are Taken When Wages Are Garnished?

If you owe money to a government agency or even to an individual, you may be subject to a wage garnishment. This is a legal arrangement where your employer receives a legal notice requiring him to…
Can Credit Cards Come After a Spouse?

When you incur credit card debt yet do not make the required payments, the credit card company will diligently pursue you for payment. Depending on the company and the amount you owe, a credit card…
Does Bankruptcy Clear the Taxes Owed?

Bankruptcy can discharge some types of taxes, but not others. If you owe income taxes to the IRS or to your state treasury, you may be able to discharge them in bankruptcy if the taxes meet certain…
Can a Collection Agency Go After a Spouse’s Bank Account?

Although collection agencies prefer to collect consumer debts through voluntary payments, your collection agency may revert to a lawsuit if you do not agree or adhere to a payment plan. The collection…
What to Do When Served With a Civil Suit From a Credit Card Company?

If you are significantly behind on your credit card payments, chances are that sooner or later you will be served with a lawsuit from your credit card company. That’s because credit card companies…
Am I Responsible for My Husband’s Credit Card Debt After a Separation in Florida?

Florida law does not recognize spouses as legally separated until they actually divorce. Additionally, the state does not follow community property laws. This means a wife has no responsibility for a…
Oregon State Law Regarding Credit Card Debt

Credit card debt laws in Oregon follow the rules established in the Fair Debt Collection and Practices Act — FDCPA. The FDCPA is a federal guideline that outlines the minimum legal requirements…
Do I Have to Pay a Sold Debt?

Debt collectors make your life miserable if they bombard you with letters and phone calls demanding payments. Some collection agencies use threats and abusive language, even though the Privacy Rights…
How Bankruptcy Helps Your Credit

Bankruptcy is usually a last resort because of how badly it hurts your credit rating. Bankruptcy stays on your credit bureau reports for a full 10 years, and this court action does impact your credit…
Credit Card Rules for Consumers Under 21

The Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility and Disclosure Act of 2009 granted consumers specific protection from unfair credit industry practices. A significant portion of the act is dedicated to…
Legal Steps to Garnish Wages

Creditors often use wage garnishment as a final means to collect on an unpaid debt. The legal steps for creditor debt garnishments differ from those of federal and state agency debt. The exact…
Who Pays a Spouse’s Debt When He Dies?

The death of a spouse is traumatic enough without the added stress of finances and debt collection attempts. Debt repayment during probate and the surviving spouse’s liability depend on state laws and…
Can Wages Be Garnished in Illinois for Debt?

Court-ordered wage garnishment is one way that your creditors can enforce a judgment against you in the state of Illinois. However, Illinois state law sets a limit on the amount that can be garnished…
What Happens When Being Sued for Credit Card Debt in Texas?

Credit card debt is unsecured debt, meaning that the creditor cannot take away your home or other property if you do not pay the debt. In Texas, credit card companies can sue delinquent debtors for…
Can a Person’s Wages or Bank Account Be Garnished for Credit Cards?

When a person runs up a credit card debt and then fails to pay this debt back on time, the credit card company can take many different steps to receive repayment. Usually, the company will begin by…
Nonsecured Starter or Credit-rebuilding Credit Cards

Credit cards are convenient, but if you have a poor credit history, or no credit history at all, it can be difficult to get the credit you need. Secured credit cards offer an alternative to unsecured…
Do I Pay Debt Sold to a Collection Agency?

Once your original creditor sells your unpaid account balance to a collection agency, you no longer owe the debt to the original creditor, but to the company that purchased your account. Whether or…
Who Is Responsible for Credit Cards If a Parent Dies?

After the tragic loss of a parent, money is often the furthest thing from your mind. But if your parent had active credit card accounts at the time of her death, you may be worried that you are…
Can Credit Card Companies Garnish Wages in Michigan?

Just because a credit card company’s headquarters are located in a different state does not mean they cannot garnish the wages you earn in Michigan. Credit card companies have to complete the proper…
Can I Get Sued by a Credit Card Company if I Lost My Job and Can’t Pay?

When you are employed, handling your credit card bills is manageable, provided your spending has been within your budget. When you lose your job, however, tackling your payments becomes harder. If you…
Can My Wages Be Garnished for My Husband’s Debt?

A debt can result in a wage garnishment if the borrower does not pay according to the terms of the agreement and a court grants a judgment against the borrower. In most cases, a debt is a contract…
Can an Unpaid Credit Card Company Garnish Pay Checks?

If you have unpaid credit card debt, the credit card company can garnish your wages. The credit card company has to sue you in court and a judge has to find in their favor before the garnishment can…
Habits That Lead to Debt

Everyone’s personal relationship with money is different, but the habits that lead to debt are similar. At its simplest, spending money without paying attention to where it comes from or where it’s…
Oklahoma Alimony Garnishment Rules

In Oklahoma, if you do not pay court-ordered alimony to your former spouse, your spouse can ask the court to garnish your wages. If the court agrees, your employer must withhold a portion of your…
What Does Discharged Debt Mean?

When your debt becomes overwhelming, because of illness, divorce, unemployment or simply poor management of your finances, filing for bankruptcy may be an option. Bankruptcy can provide you with a…
Can a Bank Sell Your Debt to a Collection Agency Without Your Knowledge?

If you default on a loan or credit card, your bank can sell the debt in order to recoup its losses. In many cases, the company that buys your debt is also a collection agency, which means that it can…
Who Has to Pay Credit Card Debt When Someone Dies?

Losing a friend or relative is traumatic enough without worrying about financial matters. However, because almost 40 percent of senior citizens carry credit card balances, the issue of what happens…
How Long Can You Be Sued for a Debt in Michigan?

When a Michigander incurs a debt, he is legally obligated to make good on it. According to Michigan law, however, if enough time elapses, then he is no longer legally obligated to pay. This time limit…
Is Including Credit Card Debt in Mortgage Refinancing Smart?

Interest rates for mortgages and refinances are still close to historic lows—under 5 percent in some cases, as of December 2010. The low interest rate environment makes it attractive to refinance a…
Can Credit Card Debt Be Discharged in a Bankruptcy in Idaho?

Bankruptcy helps consumers regain control of finances and start fresh. Bankruptcy rules and regulations are complex and require someone who is knowledgeable about the process to know which debts can…
What Is the Difference Between Secured & Nonsecured Credit Cards?

People seeking to get credit cards from financial institutions can apply for both unsecured and secured credit cards. The card types have one major difference: secured credit cards require collateral,…
Maximum Garnishment of Wages

Wage garnishment is a process used by a creditor to collect on a debt. Once a court judgment is obtained, the creditor can go to court to obtain a wage assignment, or garnishment. A wage assignment…
How to Eliminate My Debt in Arizona

Arizona residents can choose from public, private and state debt elimination resources. When you are clearing past due and delinquent credit card debts and loans, check that your records are complete…
What Happens With Credit Card Debt If You Move Abroad?

When you move abroad, continue paying your credit card bills. Your debt will not disappear just because your address changes. Credit card companies will continue to pursue you. While you can get away…
How Long Does a Satisfaction of Judgment Take to Clear?

A debt that is the result of losing a court case is called a judgment. Judgments appear on your credit report and can adversely affect your credit rating. A “satisfaction of judgment” is a legal…
How to Fix Your Credit in Oregon

Oregon law provides residents with legal protections against creditors documenting bad debts that are no longer valid. Before you can fix your credit file in Oregon, you must obtain recent copies of…
Are Beneficiaries Responsible for Their Parent’s Debt?

Everyone hopes to have a nest egg to leave behind when they die, but sometimes people leave behind large debts instead. As a beneficiary, you may be worried about what will come of your parent’s debt…
Help with Major Credit Card Debt

Uncontrolled spending can result in serious credit problems and high credit card debt. Credit cards can come to your aid during an emergency. But some people make the mistake of using credit cards to…
Am I Responsible for a Credit Card Debt Under My Husband’s Name?

Money is a major concern for most couples; however, if one spouse is routinely irresponsible financially, the worry may extend further than marital strife—the responsible spouse may be in danger of…
Can Creditors Garnish Your Prepaid Credit Card?

Garnishing an account means seizing any funds inside the account and using them to pay off the debt. Creditors must have a court order to do this. To garnish an account, a creditor must first know of…
Can I Be Fired If My Wages Are Garnished?

The Consumer Credit Protection Act prohibits employers from terminating employees for wage garnishment “for any one debt,” though people who are the subject of multiple garnishments may face career…
Can My Husband Be Held Responsible for My Credit-Card Debt in Ohio?

A credit card is a type of short-term loan; the lender pays for charges to the card and you must pay the lender back at the end of each month or pay interest on your balance. If you default on this…
Oklahoma Garnishment Rules

The federal government establishes laws and standards for debt collection, including wage garnishment, that all states must follow. As long as states meet federal minimums and standards, they can…
If I’m Under 21 Can I Still Qualify for a Credit Card?

With the Credit Card Act of 2009, which went into effect on February 22, 2010, young adults under the age of 21 can only obtain a credit card under specific circumstances and cannot be targeted by…
How Can Someone Wipeout a Bad Credit Report?

Wiping out an entire bad credit report is impossible. The Experian, TransUnion and Equifax credit bureaus gather and report information about you, and they have the right to put negative data in your…
Does a Collections Account Affect My Mortgage Approval?

Most prospective home buyers will pay for their properties by taking out a loan. When shopping for a mortgage, buyers will generally receive offers from a number of lenders and select the one with the…
How to Pay Down Debt While Unemployed

Losing a job or becoming seasonally unemployed increases stress, especially if you have outstanding debts. Creating a source of income is crucial to managing debt while unemployed and staying abreast…
When Is a Credit Card Considered Defaulted?

In June 2009, Bank of America claimed that it anticipated default rates of 12 percent on its credit card balances, according to National Public Radio. Default means you have missed a payment and the…
When Is a Bankruptcy Considered Discharged?

Bankruptcy is a process devised by the federal government to give debtors protection from their creditors in the face of overwhelming debts. The ultimate objective of any bankruptcy petition is to…
South Carolina Credit Card Laws

Credit card laws in South Carolina must follow the guidelines established in the Fair Debt Collection and Practices Act (FDCPA). The FDCPA sets the tone and the minimum requirements, but each state…
Debt Collecion Laws in California

Although federal law prohibits certain debt collection practices, such as verbal harassment and misrepresentation by creditors, each state is responsible for drafting its own specific guidelines for…
How to Eliminate Credit Card Debt in Oregon

Paying down credit card debt is largely the same across the country, however Oregon law protects residents struggling to repay past due and delinquent credit card debt against predatory debt relief…
Can Wages Be Garnished in Pennsylvania for Credit Card Debt?

Wage garnishment is a debt collection procedure that is initiated by a judgment against you, and a subsequent court process that results in a wage deduction order. This order is served on your…
Are Credit Card Balances Sold to Collection Agencies?

Carrying unpaid accounts on its books is unprofitable for a credit card company. Your credit card company provides you with a certain amount of time in which to pay off or make payment arrangements on…
How Long Does a Judgment Stay on Your Credit File?

In today’s economy, credit files are an important sales tool. Credit card companies, mortgage lenders, insurance agents, and even potential employers will check an applicant’s credit history to get an…
Can a Credit Card Company Freeze Your Bank Account?

Consumers use credit cards as a convenient way to make a purchase or as a source of funding when cash is short. Regardless of how you use the card, you are responsible for the debt. It’s important to…
Credit Solution Debt Recovery

We are a nation that has come to consider credit cards as an indispensable financial tool. Over 176 million Americans have an average of 3.5 credit cards with an average total balance of more than…
Do Credit Card Companies Verify Income?

Loan applications that let you state your own income, such as most credit card loans, are often called liar’s loans, because an applicant can easily inflate his income. It can prove tempting to to lie…
Are You Liable for a Deceased Family Member’s Credit Card?

Only 56.5 percent of American reported saving any earnings, according to the Federal Reserve’s 2007 American Family Survey. With savings rates so low, it makes one wonder what happens to people who…
How Long Will a Defaulted Credit Card Stay on My Credit?

Every payment you make to your credit card provider appears on your credit report. If you stop making payments, the credit card company will also report your lack of payments to the credit bureaus.…
Is Credit-Card Debt Covered Under Bankruptcy?

Credit card debt can be covered under bankruptcy. However, having your credit-card debt discharged is not a certainty since a judge can dismiss the bankruptcy petition if she believes there is abuse…
Who Is Responsible for IRS Debt in a Divorce

A divorce is a traumatic enough experience without having to worry about whether you will be saddled with a joint tax bill. It is just as important to take measures to ensure that tax debt is…
Who Pays Credit Card Debt After Death?

Credit card companies cannot make a profit unless they collect the debts their customers incur, plus interest charges and fees. Although the Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility and Disclosure…
The Average Household Credit Debt

The United States of America as a nation is in debt to the tune of $13.8 trillion as of December 2010, according to U.S. National Debt Clock. Divide that figure by the country’s estimated population…
How to Respond to a Lawsuit for Credit Card Debt

When a credit card company takes legal action, you must respond in a timely manner and prepare to defend yourself against the lawsuit. The process can seem stressful, but most local courts provide…
How Long Does a Debt Settlement Stay on My Credit?

A person’s credit score — the measure of the likelihood that he will pay back a loan — is determined using information contained in his credit report. This report includes records of loans and lines…
What Debt Am I Responsible for After a Foreclosure?

Foreclosure is the method by which a mortgage lender calls due its security interest in your real estate by seizing ownership of the property. Mortgage lenders typically foreclose on a home when the…
South Carolina Default Judgment Laws

Judgments are granted when creditors or individuals you owe request monetary relief if you have not paid your debt to them. Judgments are sometimes handled in civil court and can even be granted if…
Can You Lose Your House Due to Credit Card Debt?

If you owe money to credit card company, it is possible it could eventually foreclose on your house. Unlike a mortgage lender, however, it is not something a company can do just because you are behind…
Eviction Laws for South Carolina

The state of South Carolina provides the Landlord Tenant Act to provide remedies for property owners and renters involved in a rental dispute. The law helps protect tenants from unlawful evictions and…
Garnishment Laws in Louisiana

The state of Louisiana follows federal rules for wage garnishment. Wage garnishment is applied against disposable income — earnings that remain after deductions are made. These deductions include…
Will I Get Sued for My Credit Debt?

When a debtor owes money to a creditor, the creditor can take a number of different steps to collect payment of his money. Collection tactics can range from the relatively benign, such as calling or…
Who Is Liable for a Deceased Husband’s Credit Card?

In addition to the grief of losing your spouse, you might wonder who bears the responsibility of paying off his outstanding credit card balance. Credit card debts are unsecured. Because of this, the…
Credit Card Bankruptcy Information

Consumers struggling with credit card debt often feel that filing for bankruptcy is the best solution. Bankruptcy offers a fresh start from overwhelming debt. Unfortunately the stigma of a bankruptcy…
When in Severe Debt, Can Wages Be Garnished?

Finding yourself in debt can be a very discouraging financial position to be in. If you have a large amount of debt that you cannot pay, one of the remedies that your creditors may have is to garnish…
Can Credit Card Debts Be Attached to Real Estate?

Most credit cards are unsecured debt (although consumers rebuilding their credit scores may get a secured card with a cash deposit as collateral). Only a promise to pay and a good credit history backs…
Can a Collection Agency Garnish My Bank Account?

A bank account garnishment allows a creditor to seize funds from your checking and savings accounts without your consent. Collection agencies sometimes resort to garnishing bank accounts when a debtor…
Do You Inherit Debt From Parents?

Many children may worry that they will be strapped with any debt their parents have accrued over their lifetime. Fortunately, debt does not transfer to your descendants when you die. Children will not…
Can Your Household Items Be Seized for Credit Card Debt?

No credit-card company or collection agency can take your property unless it files and wins a lawsuit against you. While it is possible that a creditor could seize some of your household items to…
Credit Card Charges When Going Abroad

When travelers go abroad, they often overlook the higher credit card fees and interest rates that are applied to international charges. While at home, people are used to paying for items with a…
How to File a Claim for Unpaid Wages in Montana

The Montana Department of Labor and Industry, Wage and Hour Unit, administrates the state wage and hour laws with which employers must comply. Employers are required to adhere to the state minimum…
How Can I Stop From Being Sued on Credit Card Debt?

Being sued for a credit card debt is a serious matter, and you should try to avoid a court case. The “New York Times” reported in 2010 that credit card companies and debt collectors were much more…
How to Defend Against Being Sued for Credit Card Debt

Appearing in court to defend against a credit card debt lawsuit can be an overwhelming experience, especially if you don’t know what to expect or what steps to take after receiving a summons. When…
Can Your Wages Be Garnished for Auto Repossession?

When you obtain an auto loan, your lender places a lien against the vehicle’s title until you pay off the loan. This gives the lender a solid security interest in the vehicle. If you do not make the…
What to Do if Sued by a Collection Agency?

When your debt is turned over to a collection agency, you typically have a few different ways that you can resolve the issue. One of the tactics that a collection agency could use to try to collect…
What Is the Per Capita Credit Card Debt?

One-third of Americans do not own a credit card. Many Americans refuse to discuss credit card debt, so debt calculations are usually estimates. Some trends are noticeable, and the more accurate…
Help With Gambling Debt

According to John M. Eades, author of the book “Gambling Addiction,” people with gambling problems often find themselves deep in financial debt. To finance their addiction, problem gamblers will often…
Can a Credit Card Company Garnish My Bank Account?

If you fail to pay your credit card bills, the lender will try to contact you and assess your ability as well as willingness to pay your debt. After a certain period, the lender will usually give up…
Can a Credit Card Collection Company Garnish Wages?

When a person gets into credit card debt, the creditor can take a number of actions to reclaim its money. Credit card companies charge steep rates of interest, as well as additional fees, to customers…
What to Do With Credit Card Debt When Someone Dies

If you are the executor of someone’s estate, or you have a family member who just passed away, you may be unclear of what to do with the unpaid credit card bills that he has left behind. Debt is not…
How to Become Debt-Free in Oregon

Debt relief options are available to Oregon residents struggling with debt. While paying down debt in Oregon is the same as in other states, Oregon offers a number of free resources. To start the debt…
New York State Laws Regarding Credit Cards
Is it Possible to Own a House After a Bankruptcy?

Depending on the type of bankruptcy you choose, you may be able to keep your home, delay foreclosure and catch up on delinquent mortgage payments. If you don’t own a home, keep your credit clean and…
How to Sue an Employer for Unpaid Wages in California

You can sue an employer for unpaid wages in California, but two different methods are used. A regular employee and some public or union workers can submit a claim through the California Labor…
How to Answer a Debt Lawsuit

Receiving a summons to appear in court to answer a debt lawsuit can be frightening and confusing at best. While your first reaction may be to hire an expensive attorney, this course of action is not…
Financial Gifts in a Divorce

The equitable distribution or community property laws contained in the domestic relations code of every state contain definitions of what property is marital property and what is separate. Gifts to a…
How Debt Affects Families

You can use debt constructively to build a better future and provide a more productive life for you and your family. When used wisely, debt allows us to buy homes for our families, cars to help us…
Can Wages Be Garnished to Pay Unsecured Credit Card Debt?

When you stop paying your credit card balances, the debt you owe doesn’t disappear, and interest charges and fees continue to accrue over time. The credit card company or any collection agency it…
Is Your Ex Entitled to Your Separate Bank Account After a Divorce?

Although the law on domestic relations varies from state to state, all jurisdictions divide marital property and debt under either equitable distribution or community property laws. While community…
What Is a Court Garnishment?

You have a lot taken out of your paycheck — taxes, Social Security, Medicare — but a court-ordered wage garnishment for repayment of debt or other legal obligation can make an even bigger dent in…
How to Protect My Money From Garnishment

Garnishment happens when you owe a creditor money, have ceased to make payments and are not communicating with collectors. Creditors can obtain a judgment against you and by court order can seize…
For What Reason Can Wages Be Garnished in Massachusetts?
Forms of Debt
How to Take Legal Action Against a Credit Card Company

You can take legal action against a credit card company if the creditor violates the Fair Credit Billing Act. This act protects consumers who have unauthorized or inaccurate charges to their credit…
When a Person Dies Is Their Estate Responsible for Their Credit Card Debt?

Many families today have multiple credit cards with balances on them. When an account holder dies, her debt will have to be dealt with. The credit card debt would not necessarily be passed onto the…
Can Land Be Taken When Being Sued for Credit Card Debt?

Although it is not likely, a credit card lender can take your land in certain circumstances to satisfy your credit card debt. Most credit card debt is unsecured debt, which means that that is not…
The Problems of Credit & Debt Over-Use

Because credit cards and loans offer a way to pursue your financial goals, they can benefit you. However, when you rely heavily on credit to achieve your goals and have a hard time paying down your…
Does Bankruptcy Help Reduce the Amount Owed on Credit Debt?

With high interest rates and fees, a credit card account can quickly get out of hand, leaving you struggling with considerable credit debt. Bankruptcy is a legal process that helps you manage your…
Credit Card 101

Credit cards are an important part of building credit history. The card also provides convenient purchasing power and helps limit the amount of cash you carry. These benefits come with a degree of…
Financial Discovery in a Divorce Dissolution

Divorce, or a “dissolution of marriage,” requires that a couple separate their lives, including their finances. To protect the interests of both spouses, many states require divorcing couples to…
How Can I Get Divorced When We Are Drowning in Debt?

The emotional devastation brought about by the breakup of a marriage becomes even greater when accompanied by the devastation of the parties’ finances. A couple living paycheck-to-paycheck may not be…
How Much Can Be Garnished From Wages in Minnesota?

Wage garnishment occurs when a creditor obtains a court order to withhold pay from a debtor’s paycheck to pay the debt. The Consumer Credit Protection Act is a federal law that governs how much can be…
Can a Bank Take Money From a Checking Account If You Defaulted on Your Credit Card?

A bank can take money from your checking account to cover a defaulted credit card debt that you legally owe — but only after being authorized by a judge. The bank must file a civil lawsuit against…
Bankruptcy Arbitration

Arbitration during bankruptcy may be complicated, due to conflicts between Federal arbitration laws and bankruptcy law. Arbitration agreements and reaffirmation agreements may also be affected by a…
Who Pays Deceased Credit Card Debt?

In addition to the pain and shock of losing a loved one, survivors must often deal with another unpleasant reality: debt collectors. Although collection agents may insinuate that a survivor is…
Advice on How to Get Debt Free

Getting out of debt can be a difficult task, especially if you have credit card balances with extraordinary interest rates. There are various options consumers can use to get out of debt, such as…
Am I Responsible for My Husband’s Credit Card Debt When He Dies?

You take on many responsibilities when you get married, and you and your spouse will share many liabilities, including financial ones. If your spouse has a significant amount of unsecured debt, such…
Divorce and Credit Debt

One issue a separating couple must resolve in their divorce is what to do about their credit card debt. Credit card debt accumulated during a marriage is considered marital property under the…
How to Stop Wage Garnishment in America

Wage garnishment refers to the practice of either government or private creditors taking money directly from your paycheck in service of a debt. In this way, they hope to reclaim some of the money…
Debt Restructure Recovery

Debt restructuring is a process generally used by corporations, but individuals may also use restructuring. Briefly, restructuring debt means repackaging it with a lower interest rate. Once the debt…
How to Cancel an Unenforceable Credit Agreement

A credit card agreement states the terms and conditions that a credit card issuer and card holder are required to uphold. For example, a credit card agreement discloses interest rates, penalty fees…
How to Use a Credit Card in the USA

People use credit cards to make purchases when they lack cash or wish to conserve it. In many European countries, merchants require customers to use a personal identification number (PIN) and sign for…
Can Wages Be Garnished in the State of Florida for Unpaid Credit?

The state of Florida has strong consumer protections when it comes to wage garnishment. Wage garnishment occurs when a creditor obtains a court order telling a debtor’s employer to withhold chunks of…
Can a Credit Card Company Garnish Your Wages in Delaware?

Unsecured creditors, like credit card companies, often seek to garnish the wages of debtors who default on their debts. There are both state and federal laws that regulate wage garnishment. Both…
Can a Credit Card Company Garnish Wages in Florida?

Creditors garnish wages to collect unpaid debts. It is a process that unsecured creditors, like credit card companies, typically use. The reason unsecured creditors use this method is because the…
Garnishment Rules for Idaho

Both federal and state laws set the rules for wage garnishment depending on which jurisdiction the consumer lives in. If the federal law provides stronger consumer protections, then the creditor must…
Can Your Wages Be Garnished in Texas?

Most creditors cannot garnish your wages if you live in the state of Texas. Texas is one of the only four states that exempt 100 percent of a debtor’s income from wage garnishment. The other three…
Wisconsin Laws on Credit Card Debt and Being Sued
Can a Husband Be Held Accountable for the Credit Card Debt of His Wife?

Marriage brings with it hundreds of changes in how family, friends, the government, businesses and the courts view you and your partner. Only a handful of these changes are immediately obvious, and…
Garnishment Laws in Florida
What Is the Statute of Limitations to Collect Credit Card Debt in Vermont?

A statute of limitations, or “statute of repose,” limits the time frame within which a plaintiff can file a lawsuit. The expiration of the repose period will bar later institution of a lawsuit no…
Statute of Limitations on Unsecured Debt in Florida

Unsecured debt is any debt that isn’t attached to some type of collateral, such as a car, real property or funds. While credit cards are a common form of unsecured debt, this category includes…
How to Clear Old Debt

Clearing old debt could end harassing phone calls from debt collectors and improve your credit. A debt several years old may be preventing you from being approved for a mortgage loan. Or banks and…
How to Use Credit Cards to Pay Down Debts Before Bankruptcy

Before you can regain control of mounting debts, you must first create a plan of action and stick to it. The process is not easy, but with a clear itemized breakdown of what you owe, you can begin the…
Can Credit Card Companies Garnish Wages in New Hampshire?

Wage garnishment is a process in which creditors seek to have a debtor’s employer withhold portions of the debtor’s wages and divert that money to the creditors to help satisfy a delinquent debt. To…
How to Avoid Credit Card Collection

According to the Unites States Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of bill and account collectors will grow around 19 percent between 2008 and 2018. By 2018, they estimate that…
Will My Wife Inherit My Debt if I Get Remarried?

Community property and common law are two practices recognized by the United States. While only a handful of states recognize community property, the remaining states recognize common law. Each state…
Maximum Wages That Can Be Garnished in Tennessee

The Consumer Credit Protection Act (CCPA) is a federal law that restricts the amount of a wages a creditor can garnish. The law represents the minimum consumer protections that exist for debtors in…
New York State Garnishment Laws for Past Due Credit Cards
How Long Before Unpaid Dept Becomes a Charge Off?

When debt becomes seriously delinquent, creditors often charge-off the debt. A charge-off means that the creditor deems the debt noncollectable and writes off the account from their profit, but it…
How to Garnish Tax Returns

Garnishment is a legal procedure where a creditor can automatically collect a percentage of a debtor’s wages or his tax return to satisfy a debt. In many states, garnishment is used to fulfill support…
Louisiana Laws on Credit Card Debt & Income Garnishments
How to Inform Credit Card Companies of the Death of a Spouse Who Was the Major Income Earner

Dealing with the emotional crisis of a spouse’s death is difficult enough, especially if your spouse was the breadwinner for the family. Paying for the funeral, burial and other costs can be a…
Criteria for Garnished Wages

When wages are garnished, it means a lender, a creditor or tax collector has sought repayment by requiring a person’s employer to divert some of his earnings toward a debt. State and federal laws give…
How Much Money Can Be Garnished From My Wages?

If you fail to pay a debt, a creditor or debt collector has the right to sue you in court. If the creditor wins, a judgment will be entered against you. According to the U.S. Department of Labor…
How to Be Safe From the Hacking of Online Banking & Credit Card Transactions

Major credit cards like Visa are taking steps to ensure hackers cannot gain access to your account and steal your personal information while you shop or view your account online. Security measures…
Resources for Credit Cards
How to Avoid Losing Your House From Credit Card Defaults

Credit card debt is unsecured, meaning there is no collateral for the debt other than your signature and promise to pay. However, creditors and debt collectors can file a lawsuit against you if you…
Spouse Responsibility for Debt in Georgia

Debt is treated differently in community property states and non-community property states. Georgia is an equitable distribution state, meaning that, in terms of responsibility, property and debt are…
Rules for Re-Aging Debt in Ohio
What Are the Problems Caused by a Credit Card Hack?
Frequently Asked Questions About Garnishment
What Does It Mean When a Bankruptcy Is Discharged?

Bankruptcies fall under federal jurisdiction in the United States. There are federal bankruptcy courts in every judicial district across the country. Federal law, the United States Bankruptcy Code,…
Credit Card Debt Ideas
What Is Meant by Garnished Wages?

When a borrower becomes deeply in debt to a creditor, to the point where he is significantly behind on payments, the creditor can take a number of legal actions to recover his money. One of his…
Can You Be Garnished on Credit Cards?

A debt collector can garnish your wages or bank account for unpaid credit card debt, but only after winning a judgment in small claims court and being granted permission by the court to proceed with…
Debt Remedy Advice

Getting out of debt “is the financial equivalent of trying to quit smoking,” behavioral economist Meir Statman told “Money” magazine. Getting out of debt and staying out of debt requires breaking…
Credit Card Debt Issues

Carrying debt is a normal thing in modern life. Too much debt can destroy your economic viability. Balancing a tolerable level of debt with responsible spending is the means of boosting your credit…
Is a Husband Responsible for His Wife’s Credit Card Debt?

Any and all debts incurred during the course of a marriage must be repaid according to the terms and conditions of the credit account. The law is clear when it comes to the shared responsibility of…
Credit Card Debt for Families

According to the 2010 U.S. Census Bureau, Americans currently have more than $886 billion of credit card debt, and that figure is predicted to rise to nearly $1.2 trillion for 2010.The average credit…
Is a Surviving Spouse Responsible for Credit Card Debt in Nevada?

In Nevada, creditors can hold a husband and wife equally responsible for debt acquired during a marriage. This includes credit card debt charged to a card held by only one spouse. Spouses in Nevada,…
Does Bankruptcy Remove Debts on a House & Credit Cards?

When you file for bankruptcy, talk to your lawyer about your financial situation and goals. While Chapter 7 bankruptcy wipes out credit card debt entirely, and Chapter 13 bankruptcy gives credit card…
Credit Card Debt Repayment Problems

Amassing a load of credit card debt can feel like a constant weight on your shoulders. As of June 2010, the total revolving U.S. consumer debt was $2.42 trillion, according to the Federal Reserve.…
What Happens If I Walk Away From My Credit Card Debt?

If you have used credit to purchase a home, buy a car or purchase personal items, chances are you have debt. Financial burdens such as job loss, child support payments or medical expenses could made…
Can Credit Card Debt Be Discharged in a Bankruptcy?

Bankruptcy is a way for consumers and businesses to eliminate or repay debt. Consumers must file for bankruptcy in federal bankruptcy court. Bankruptcy laws require consumers to get credit counseling…
Information to Protect Your Credit Card From Being Hacked

Almost two-thirds of Americans are either “very” or “extremely” concerned about credit and debit card fraud and identity theft, according to a 2009 study by the Unisys Corporation. Credit card hackers…
Does Credit Card Debt Pass to a Spouse Upon Death?

Whether or not credit card debt passes to a spouse upon death depends largely on the type of credit card the deceased held. Either the spouse or the estate of the deceased is responsible for such…
Can I Be Summoned to Court for Credit Card Debt If I’m on Disability & SSI?

Having a lot of credit card debt can be worrisome, particularly if you don’t have many assets and have a limited income. While it is possible that a credit card company, or its collection agency,…
Is My Spouse Responsible for My Credit Card Debt?

Money and credit are important parts of marriage and family. Most families have a mortgage, one or two car loans and several credit cards. Spouses may or may not share these credit obligations. Each…
How Do I Answer After Being Served With Unpaid Credit Card Debt?

Unpaid credit card debt can come back to haunt you in the form of a lawsuit. Credit card companies frequently transfer delinquent accounts to debt collectors, who can then file lawsuits against the…
Does Credit Card Debt Affect Mortgage Approval?

When your mortgage application is being approved, lenders want to know that you are a good credit risk. High credit card debt balances can make lenders think twice about financing a home.
Can Your Wages Be Garnished for Credit Card Debt in Texas?

Credit card debt can destroy your financial health and ruin your credit score. If you stop making payments on your credit card debt, in some states your card issuer can garnish your wages to collect…
What If a Deceased Person Has Credit Card Debts?

Sometimes the financial affairs of someone who dies are not all resolved or covered by provision in their will. Credit card debts are among those financial issues that must be resolved by the executor…
When is a Credit Card Debt Unenforceable?

Since credit card debt arises from the existence of a legally binding contractual agreement, any defects in the contract formation process may render the debt unenforceable.
Can I Get Sued If I Owe a Credit Card Debt?

The agreement between a credit card company and a cardholder is a legally binding contract. A debtor who fails to make payments in accordance with the terms and conditions of the card agreement could…
Can I Be Sued for Credit Card Debt If I Am Disabled?

Credit card companies initiate a collections process when cardholders do not make at least the minimum payment on their credit card debts. These companies may opt to sue a cardholder to collect the…
Can I Be Sued for Unsecured Credit Card Debt?

Falling behind on credit card payments is frustrating and frightening. Credit card companies can sue debtors to recover unsecured credit card debt. Fortunately, debtors can do things to minimize the…
Credit Card Debt Responsibilities
Is It Better to Have Savings or Credit Card Debt?

Many people choose to use their disposable income pay off their credit card debt rather than build savings. While this approach preserves someone’s credit score, it may be hurtful in the long run.
How Are Credit Card Debts During the Marriage Split at Divorce?

When a couple divorces, they must divide marital assets and debt. Sometimes the division is easy, but in other cases it can be quite messy. The laws regarding dividing debt during a divorce differ…
Cures for Credit Card Debt
How Does Credit Card Debt Lead to Financial Stress?

Even after the Credit Card Act of 2010, carrying credit card debt is like building your financial security on shifting sand. Credit card companies can still hike up interest rates–they just have to…
Reasons for Credit Card Debt
Can Your Spouse Be Sued for Credit Card Debt After a Divorce?

After a divorce, debt liability is usually settled. Sometimes debt matters do not emerge until after the divorce has gone to court. For example, if your spouse defaults on a credit card after the…
Can I Roll Credit Card Debt Into a Refinance?

If you are struggling with high-interest credit card debt, you may want to roll that debt into a mortgage refinance. However, you should carefully consider the benefits and dangers before putting your…
Can You Be Sued for Unpaid Credit Cards?

If you are overwhelmed by credit card debt, you should be aware that you can be sued by credit card companies. After a creditor wins its lawsuit, it can take steps to collect its judgment, including…
Will Bankruptcy Stop a Wage Garnishment for Credit Card Debt?

One of the first effects of filing for bankruptcy is the cessation of collection efforts, including wage garnishment, by your creditors. If you are facing garnishment from more than one creditor,…
Credit Card Debt FAQ

Credit card debt can cause financial problems for years — even a lifetime — making it difficult to save for retirement or pay cash for simple emergencies. In extreme cases, credit card debt can lead…
How to Resolve Credit Card Debt

Despite your best efforts, it’s not always easy to get rid of debt. High interest rates and little income can impact your ability to reduce your debts. What’s more, continuing to use credit cards or…
Definition of the Accrual of the Right of Action for Credit Card Debt

Accrual of the right of action for credit card debt is a concept used to determine when the clock starts ticking for purposes of computing the statute of limitations period for a civil action filed by…
What to Do With Credit Card Debt and No Income

Managing credit card debt can be difficult when you have no income. Some creditors offer temporary solutions for short-term hardship. However, when financial hardship lasts for long periods of time,…
What Happens to Old Credit Card Debt?

A general rule in the collections industry holds that the longer a defaulted account ages, the less likely it will be collected. The principal risk to creditors engaged in collecting old credit card…
Credit Card Debt Rights in the State of Washington
Resources for Credit Card Debt
Effects of Doing Nothing About Credit Card Debt
Can a Collection Agency Obtain a Judgment Against You for Credit Card Debt?

A judgment is a designation entered on a court’s docket that signifies a plaintiff has prevailed in his lawsuit against a defendant. Because most collection agencies merely act on behalf of a…
What Is a Judgment for Nonsecured Credit Card Debt?

A judgment for unsecured credit card debt is an entry entered on a civil court’s docket that signifies that a credit card company has prevailed in its lawsuit against the cardholder for recovery of…
What States Can Garnish Wages for Credit Card Debt?
Consequences of Ignoring Credit Card Debt
Who is Responsible for Credit Card Debt in Divorce?

When couples divorce, their debt will be divided either by mutual agreement or a judge’s decree. Regardless of how the finances are settled in a divorce, creditors may still pursue both spouses for…
What Happens If My Credit Card Debt Is Not Paid Because of Lack of Finances?

Not making your regular credit card payments due to a lack of funds results in a default on your account. A defaulted credit card account can result in collection activity, negative marks on your…
How to Cut Credit Card Debt in Half

If you’re feeling up to your eyeballs in credit card debt, freedom from plastic seems like a distant dream. However, with the proper preparation, some determination and the willingness to cut down on…
How Long Does a Judgment for Credit Card Debt Stay on Your Credit?

Having a judgment on your credit report for a credit card debt is often more detrimental to your credit score than having a collection account. However, as with all the account information on your…
What to Do If You Are Being Sued for a Debt

With the financial stresses of today, many people can’t pay their bills. This results in calls from creditors, letters from lawyer’s offices and, eventually, a court summons.
Who Is Responsible for a Deceased Mother’s Credit Card Debt?

If you are contacted about an unpaid debt belonging to a deceased parent or relative, do not cave in to demands for payment. In almost all cases, creditors can only demand payment from the estate of…
The Statute of Limitations on Credit Card Debt for Being Sued

If bill collectors keep contacting you about an old credit account, check your records. If the statute of limitations is expired, your creditors may not be able to collect any money from you in court.
Are Minors Responsible for Credit Card Debt?

In the past, credit card companies have targeted minors to apply for credit cards, with special emphasis on college students. Starting in 2009, new laws were passed to protect minors from credit card…
How do I Clear Credit Card Debt Legally?

There are various ways to legally clear your credit card debts. Some methods offer immediate relief, while others are more long-term approaches. But be very clear on one fact: There is no Obama credit…
How to Respond to Being Sued by a Credit Card Company

With over 500 million credit cards in the United States and an average debt of $15,788 per household, there’s a good chance you may be in over your head with credit cards. Your creditors may even…
How to Divide Credit Card Debts in a Divorce in the State of Missouri

Dividing assets in a divorce can be complicated. Dividing debt can be just as complicated and sometimes even more unpleasant. Missouri is an “equitable distribution” state. In Missouri, the court…
How to Settle an Old Credit Card Debt You Are Being Sued For

Whether it’s a credit card company or collection agency that files a lawsuit against you for unpaid debts, if they win the case you’ll end up with a civil judgment on your record. Not only does a…
How to Solve Credit Card Debt

If you have credit card debt, you are certainly not alone. But, if you have a monthly debt that is 15 to 20 percent of your income, you have too much debt, according to CNN Money. Additionally, when…
What are the Arbitration Laws for Credit Card Debt in the State of Florida?
How do I Let Credit Card Debt Go?

The only easy way out of credit card debt is to simply pay it all off. Paying your credit card debt in full will protect your credit rating and perhaps give you a fresh start. Of course, that’s…
Arbritation Laws on Credit Card Debt in Florida
Options for Repaying Credit Card Debt
Common Law & Credit Card Debt

Common law is the body of law based on previous judicial rulings. This differs from legislative law, which is passed by a legislature. Legislative law takes precedence in court. However, common law is…
Should I Marry a Girl with Credit Card Debt?
Gambling & Credit Card Debt

Casual gambling can turn into a serious addiction that quickly depletes finances. Gamblers often turn to credit cards to fund their habit, only to find the mounting debt overwhelming.
Facts About Wage Garnishment Resulting from Being Sued

After a creditor sues you, it often has the option to recover the debt you owe by using the resulting court judgment to request a writ of garnishment. When it serves your employer with the writ of…
Law & Credit Card Debt

There are many laws that affect credit card holders. These laws specify when and how credit collectors can attempt to collect a debt as well as what legal action can be taken against the debtor.
If an Economy Collapses What Happens to Credit Card Debt?

Economic collapse doesn’t end financial obligations or legal contracts. Credit card debt is owed regardless of the borrower’s ability to repay. Economies can collapse due to high inflation or a…
Ohio Laws on Credit Card Debts
What Happens to Credit Card Debt for Someone in a Nursing Home?

A 2009 publication by the Employee Benefit Research Institute claims that more elderly individuals are saddled with debts than ever before. Approximately 63 percent of all Americans over age 55 carry…
How to Write a Discovery Request for Credit Card Debt

A discovery request, more often referred to as a request for production of documents, is a precursor to filing a motion for discovery or discovery motion which asks the court to compel the recipient…
South Carolina Laws Regarding Liens for Credit Card Debt
Credit Card Debt Problems

Recognizing the early signs of credit card debt problems helps people address financial issues before they become catastrophes. People spend 47 percent more money shopping when using a credit card…
How Is Credit Card Debt Handled When a Debtor Dies?

Financial matters are the last thing on our mind when our spouse has passed away. We only can deal with our emotions and put everything else on hold until we’re able to think past the present tragedy.…
Laws on Credit Debt
Garnishment Laws in the State of Ohio for Credit Card Debt
Laws in California Governing Unpaid Credit Card Debt
Credit Card Debt Laws in Texas
Laws on Judgments for Credit Card Debts
Florida Debt Laws
How to Repair Old Credit Card Debt

The only way to repair old credit card debt is to pay it — unless you would rather eliminate it entirely through Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Chapter 7 allows you to discharge, or eliminate, credit card…
Options for Credit Card Debt Payments
How to Handle Being Sued for Old Credit Card Debt

America’s total consumer debt is more than $2.44 trillion, according to creditcards.com, which adds that the credit card default rate as of May 2010 stood at more than 11 percent. Individuals who…
What Are Florida’s State Laws on Credit Card Debt?
How to Resolve Credit Debt

Credit resolution can be a difficult process. Seemingly unending monthly bills and minimum payments can make the situation seem unending and impossible to solve. Moving toward being free from debt…
How to Handle Major Credit Card Debt

According to moneycentral.msn.com, Americans are currently holding nearly $650 billion dollars in revolving credit card debt. A large majority do not clear their debt balance each month, and 47…
What Are the Laws in Nebraska Regarding Credit Card Debt?
Federal Laws for Consumers With Credit Card Debt
Cons of Foreclosing
Credit Card Debt Programs
Laws on Death & Credit Card Debt
How to Prevent Yourself From Accumulating Credit Card Debt

Spending with plastic has become a means of life for many people. People often use their plastic without thinking and spend way above their means. As a result, they accumulate debt that becomes…
Credit Card Debt and Foreclosure

In most cases, a foreclosure is a result of a consumer that has undergone a financial hardship. If an individual can’t afford to keep up with mortgage payments or credit card payments, the debt can…
How to Freeze Your Credit Card Debt

According to Consumers Union, there are more than $8 million new victims of identity theft in the United States each year. Identity thieves steal Social Security numbers and other highly personal…
Define Credit Card Debt

Credit card debt is the amount of debt owed to a credit issuing company. Credit lines issued on the credit card vary by consumer and are based on the credit rating of the consumer. Balances can start…
How to Challenge Credit Card Debt

Credit cards are a necessity these days for most consumers. It can be hard to rent a car or book a hotel without a one. Some consumers use their cards for everyday necessities while others use them…
Consequences of Unpaid Credit Card Debt
Laws Regarding Credit Card Debt
Questions About Credit Card Debt
What Happens to Credit Card Debt in Bankruptcy?

Bankruptcy can serve as a powerful form of debt relief for individuals who can no longer afford growing amounts of debt. What happens to an individual’s credit card debt during a bankruptcy depends…
Relationship Between Credit Card Debt & Bankruptcy

Many people in the United States struggle with credit card debt. As of 2009, the debt service ratio, which is the ratio between debt and disposable income, is 110 percent in the United States,…
How to Discharge Credit Card Debt

Credit card debt is discharged in a process called bankruptcy. When a consumer follows the rules of bankruptcy, he or she receives a court order discharging certain debts. Bankruptcy should be used as…
How to Repay Credit Card Debt

If you’re stressed out about credit card debt, you’re not alone. Many consumers struggle with debt from their overused credit cards, and making payments on cards with high interest rates can be a…
How to Make Credit Card Debt Disappear

If you let your credit card debt climb out of control, you might want to make it disappear. Because such unsecured loans often include high interest rates, your finances may incur more damage due to…
How to Restructure Credit Card Debt

You can choose from several options to restructure your credit card debt. You can use the restructuring as a part of a long-term strategy for paying down — or paying off — your credit cards. In the…
How to Roll Credit Card Debt Into a Mortgage

There are two types of mortgage refinances, rate and term refinancing and cash out refinancing. In cash out refinancing, a borrower adds to the original mortgage principal balance to receive “cash…
How to Repay the Debt on a Revolving Credit Card

Making the minimum payment on your credit card each month may protect your credit rating, but it won’t help you quickly pay down revolving debt. According to the Federal Trade Commission, credit card…
Risk of Credit Card Debt

The average family with revolving credit held about $16,000 in credit card debt during 2009 across 3.5 accounts, according to CreditCards.com. The typical account had an annual percent rate of 14.31…
How to Move Abroad With Credit Card Debt

A divorce, immigration issue or change in employment may result in you needing to move out of the country quickly. Settling your financial affairs before you leave is crucial, but if you don’t have…
How to Include Credit Card Debt in Refinancing

There are two major types of mortgage refinances: cash out and straight refinance. A straight refinance, or no cash out, mortgage simply replaces the original debt with a new rate and term mortgage. A…
How to Transfer Someone Else’s Debt to My Credit Card

The process of transferring someone else’s debt to your credit card is paying the other person’s creditor with the money that is available to spend on your credit card. You cannot pay most creditors…
The Relationship Between Credit Card Debt & Bankruptcy

Bankruptcy is considered a legal and often essential response to credit card debt. When credit card debt becomes unmanageable, debt relief programs sometimes counsel the card owners to file for…
The Truth About Credit Card Debt

The Average American carries or has carried credit card debt at some point in his life. Figures are all over the board as to just how much that figure is. The numbers being bandied around are anywhere…
Credit Card Debt & Death

Most people understand how credit cards usually work. You use the credit card to pay for goods and services, and each month you get a bill. If you do not pay the bill in full each month, the credit…
How Credit Card Debt Affects Your Ability to Invest

How much credit card that you have can have a large impact on your investment ability. With credit card debt, most extra income that you have will go towards paying down the balance. This hampers your…
How to Protect My Assets in Florida from Credit Card Debt

Credit card borrowers in Florida are subject to stringent state laws regarding default. If you default on a debt in Florida, you may face several consequences, up to and including repossession of…
Options When Credit Card Debt Is Sold to a Collection Agency
Government Grants for Credit Card Debt

Many Americans find themselves under a mountain of increasing credit card debt. Looking for relief from the financial burden, consumers have turned to debt-relief companies and even the federal…
Florida Laws on Judgements for Credit Card Debt
Credit Card Debt and its Effect on the Economy

During the recession starting in 2009, the news media made much of the role of consumer credit card debt in the bleak economic situation. Credit card debt is an individual financial situation, but the…
How Should You Distribute Credit Card Debt to Improve Your Credit?

A credit card is a convenient way to make purchases that you may then pay off later. When you get approved for a new credit card, the account will appear on your credit report. The amount you owe your…
How to Sell Credit Card Debt

Although you may be struggling under the weight of your credit card debt, there are ways to use your debt to your advantage. With multiple debt management companies and credit card corporations vying…
The Advantages of Debt
Credit Card Debt Responsibility After Death

The loss of a loved one is terribly painful. However, as if to add insult to injury, the family of the deceased will invariably begin getting calls about his debts–and demands that they be paid.
How to Spread Debt Over Multiple Cards

Sometimes you may find yourself in a position of needing to absorb debt but with no money to pay it off and no one credit line that will cover the amount of debt you need to absorb. Divorce is a good…
Consequences of Credit Card Debt
Penalties for Credit Card Debt
How to Prepare for Credit Card Debt Court

If you fail to pay an unsecured debt, such as a credit card debt, the credit card company to which you owe the debt will charge off the balance. The debt will often be sold to a collection agency…
Credit Card Debt Effects
How To Prevent New Credit Cards From Being Issued

Consumers who have had their identity compromised—also known as identity theft—know that the road to recovery is often long and uneven. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), as many as…
Credit Card Debt Effects on Cardholders
How to Go to Court for Credit Card Debt

Collection agencies and credit card companies sue you to collect on your defaulted credit card debt after failing to convince you to give them your money voluntarily. Contrary to what you might think,…
Can You Be Sued for Credit Cards?

When you sign a credit card contract, you are agreeing to the credit card provider’s terms — including the condition that you will pay what you owe, plus any fees. If you do not adhere to the…
Can a Home Be Seized for Credit Card Debt?

Creditors have been known to threaten to seize the property of debtors who are unable to meet their financial obligations. Not only is this illegal, it is also untrue (See References 1). A creditor…
Bankruptcy Due to Credit Card Debt

Many individuals who file for bankruptcy do so because of overwhelming amounts of credit card debt. If a creditor is legally unable to sue you, however, filing for bankruptcy over unpaid credit card…
How to Resolve Credit Card Debt When Unemployed

If you are unemployed, it can be difficult trying to resolve your credit card debt. When you are laid off or fired, your source of income can be substantially reduced. You have to develop a plan or…
How to Calculate Life of Credit Card Debt

Debts you incur on your credit card accounts are only legally valid for a limited amount of time. This is known as the debt collection statute of limitations and it varies by state. After the statute…
How to Inherit Credit Card Debt

An important question that spouses and family members should ask after a loved one’s death is what happens to the deceased’s credit card debt. According to the Federal Trade Commission, credit card…
How to Teach About Credit Card Debt

Credit card debt is a growing problem during economic difficulties. Education programs, either formal or informal, are an effective way to increase the knowledge of consumers when it comes to credit…
How to Fight Credit Card Debt

Credit card debt can get overwhelming–it’s easy to make the minimum payments and forget the rest. In the meantime, your debt grows and can quickly become unmanageable. It’s important to get a hold of…
How to Clear Up Credit Card Debt

In today’s economy, people are reaching for their credit cards now more than ever. Whether it’s to pay monthly bills, vacations, or holiday shopping, credit cards are making it far too easy to swipe…
How to Terminate All Credit Card Debt

Dependency on credit cards is a big problem in America. The average family owes $8,000 in credit card debt, according to the American Bankers Association. Making the minimal monthly payments on your…
Credit Card Debt Options

In some cases, taking care of credit card debt means getting the monthly payments down to where they fit into your budget. In others, you may have the strong desire to pay off your credit card debt…
How Much Does Credit Card Debt Affect a Home Loan?

Interest rates on 30-year and 15-year fixed-rate mortgage loans dipped to record lows in late 2009. But if you owe too much money on your credit cards, you might not be able to take advantage of these…
How to Fight Arbitration on Credit Card Debt

Until 2009, virtually all credit card contracts included a clause that waived the cardholder’s right to sue the lender. Instead, all disputes would be settled by binding arbitration. The problem with…
How to Wipeout Credit Card Debt Without Going Bankrupt

Faced with rising debt and uncertain economic conditions, some people consider bankruptcy as a way to alleviate their financial pain. However, bankruptcy can affect other aspects of life, including…
The History of Debt Cards

Ever since its conception, debt cards, or more commonly known as credit cards, have been a useful financial tool. Almost all existing banks today offer credit cards to their clients. Consumers are…
How Is Credit Card Data Being Used?
Credit Card Debt Recovery Laws

Credit card debt is unsecured debt. If a borrower ceases to make his scheduled payments, the credit card company cannot claim any of his personal property in lieu of those payments. The creditor,…
What Does Credit Card Debt Mean?

If you have ever made a purchase on a credit card, you have accrued credit card debt. Your credit card debt encompasses more than just the charges you make. Careful monitoring of your interest rates…
Credit Card Debt Information

Most Americans carry around at least one piece of plastic in their wallets. Although there is some debate over statistics of credit card use, the majority of us tend to have at least a couple thousand…
Credit Card Debt Strategies

A credit card can be a useful money-management tool because it lets you buy things without having to pay cash for them, which amounts to an interest-free loan. Unfortunately, the convenience of a…
Surviving Spouse & Credit Card Debt

The loss of a spouse is an emotionally wrenching experience. The last thing a grieving widow or widower needs is to be mercilessly hounded over the credit card debt of the deceased. If you find…
Laws on Unpaid Credit Card Debt

If you were to poll people who had recently filed for bankruptcy about their reasons for doing so, you would find unpaid credit card debt ranked high on the list. During times of financial trouble,…
Laws on the SOL of Credit Card Debt

A statute of limitations (SOL) is the amount of time legally allowed to sue in either criminal or civil court. After this time period has expired, no legal prosecution for the offense is allowed to…
Credit Card Debt Collection Techniques

The phone rings and you cringe, knowing it is another debt collector. As you answer, you wonder what credit card debt collection techniques are legal. You have rights when it comes to what debt…
How to Measure Your Risk of Being Sued by a Collection Agency

Just having a collection agency holding your debt puts you at risk of being sued. Some factors, however, increase your risk more than others.
Credit Card Debt Vs. Retirement Savings

Credit-card debt and retirement savings are going in opposite directions when it comes to financial planning. If you have too much credit-card debt, it can keep you from retiring according to your…
Card Credit Debt Assistance

Once you are in over your head when it comes to credit card debt, it can be difficult to resolve your credit situation. Interest and fees may continue to accrue, such that your payments are doing…
How Much Does the Average American Owe in Credit Card Debt?

In 2009 the average American owed $8,400 in credit card debt. Up to 40 percent of American households spend more money annually than they make. In fact close to 80 percent of Americans have one or…
Credit Card Debt Arbitration Laws

When you read the terms and conditions of your credit card agreement you may notice the mandatory binding arbitration clause. Just about all credit cards have this stipulation included. As soon as you…
What to Do When Being Sued for Credit Card Debt

Credit card companies can start legal action if you don’t pay your debts. If they receive a judgment against you through the court, they can do a number of things to collect money toward the payment…
How to Change Revolving Credit Card Debt Into a Simple Interest Loan

Most of us who have revolving credit card debt know how punishing the interest rates have become lately. Even if you almost always pay off your credit card on time, it doesn’t take much to send the…
Does Credit Card Debt Affect Credit?
What Happens to Credit Card Debt When a Person Dies?

Many people die with debts. Many times, this leaves a hardship on the surviving family members. Some people make provisions for their credit card debt in case they die. Either way, dying with credit…
What Happens to Credit Card Debt After Death?
How to Cut Credit Card Debt in Half, Quickly

Cutting your credit card debt by 50% can make a huge difference in your financial life. Reducing credit card debt is probably the number one way to improve your credit score and win with money.…
Effects of Being in Debt

Being in debt is bad for a person’s credit, it’s hard on an individual, and it’s hard on their family. Get rid of embarrassment, debt and stress by paying off credit cards with help from an…
How to Calculate Credit Card Debt

Millions of Americans are overwhelmed by debt, much of it because of overusing credit cards. If you are looking to take control of your situation and pay off your debts, you must know exactly how much…
About Credit Card Debt

Credit card debt can be very harmful to somebody, so it’s important to examine all options before using credit cards for the first time. Find out how credit card debt can be beneficial to a business…
What Happens to Credit Card Debt When You Die?

When you die, credit debt can be transferred to a spouse or next of kin depending on state laws. Check the laws on credit card debt being passed on after death with information from the owner of a…
About Credit Card Debt in the US

Debt is part of American life, and credit cards are the dominant form of unsecured credit. They offer easy and open access to a line of unsecured credit, which can prove invaluable to the responsible…
About Credit Card Debt Loans

Debt consolidation loans are another name for what is commonly thought of as credit card debt loans, because that is their primary purpose–to help people consolidate and rectify the debt that…
About Refinancing Credit Card Debt

If you are carrying balances on high interest rate credit cards, you may benefit from refinancing your credit card debt. Instead of making minimum payments on credit card balances that only seem to…
How to Stop Shopping for Credit-Card Debt

Chronic overspending for one in 20 American adults is a serious mental health condition, according to a Stanford University School of Medicine report. Many of us are prone to occasional shopping…
About Credit Card Debt

Credit card debt is accepted by modern society as a common facet of personal finance, although it wasn’t always this way. In the past, attaining a credit card was a difficult task, reserved for only…
How Does Credit Card Debt Accumulate?
How to Survive the Coming Tough Times – Restructuring Credit Card Debt

In a speech in South Africa, the late Robert F. Kennedy said that the Chinese had a curse, “May you live in interesting times.” The next few years both threaten the world with economic decline but may…
How to Refinance Credit Card Debt

To refinance means to take out a new loan, usually with favorable terms, to cover an existing loan. To refinance credit card debt, you take out a single loan to pay off all of your credit cards. One…

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