What should you know about debt collectors?
Debt collectors must abide by the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), an act enforced by the Federal Trade Commission. This act classifies certain practices, behaviors and actions as illegal and harmful to the person these collectors have targeted. In order to fully protect yourself from debt collector harassment, it is important to understand what […]
How do you keep yourself out of credit card debt?
Digging yourself out of debt will undoubtedly serve as one of the most difficult financial hurdles you will overcome. Of course, once you find your way back out of it, it would make sense for you to avoid getting back into it at all costs. To this end, you can take steps to improve your […]
Can communication prevent foreclosure?
Financial hardship can bring added stress to many areas of your life. Your ability to repay debts you owe, such as a home mortgage, may dwindle and leave you questioning the stability of your future. A foreclosure could impact your family and disrupt your children’s educational commitments, your career and everyone’s social life. If you […]
Do you know your debt-to-income ratios?
For many Americans, money seems to be in short supply nowadays. Because most cannot afford to pay for even a $1,000 emergency, turning to credit cards is often the only option. If you have too much debt, though, you may worsen your financial situation considerably. How much debt is too much varies from person to […]
Improving the costs of a home mortgage
Owning a home can provide many benefits, including shelter and financial security. Affording a home requires the careful collaboration of financial goals and strategies. Because a home mortgage is often one of the higher debts that people owe, lowering its cost can provide substantial savings. Knowing how to effectively improve mortgage costs can help people […]
Taking legal action against a debt collector
If you are dealing with a debt collector, you likely have a number of hardships to work through. Aside from struggling with intense levels of anxiety and uncertainty, some people face hardships because debt collectors violate their legal rights. If you have experienced unlawful debt collector harassment, it is pivotal to understand your options and […]
What are some common reasons for credit card debt?
Many Americans deal with the stress that often comes with large amounts of debt and, in some cases, acquiring too much credit card debt, in particular, may make it difficult for individuals to secure loans for homes or vehicles because of how debt impacts their credit score. CNBC News notes that most people need a […]
What is debt collector misrepresentation?
When dealing with debt, the last thing you want on top of this already profound stress is the pestering of debt collectors. While debt collector harassment often gets a lot of press, that is not only wrong they can do. Debt collector misrepresentation is another big issue. But what exactly is this, and what sort […]
How to handle credit card debt as a recent graduate
As a recent graduate, you are likely trying to manage your money and debt as you leave your college days behind and go into your new career. When you plan your budget including your new income and expenses, you will need to account for any credit card debt you carry. No matter the reason you […]
How long may it take to pay debts through a Chapter 13 plan?
Chapter 13 bankruptcy is available for filers who earn regular income. As noted by the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts, if you qualify, a Maryland bankruptcy court may work with you to create a payment plan that typically lasts between three and five years. The payment-plan timeline generally depends on how much income you […]