Tag Archives: Chapter 13
The average household has more credit card debt in 2016
Families in Florida who feel like their finances are worse off each year are not alone. A NerdWallet report shows that U.S. households are holding an increasing amount of debt, and income growth is not keeping pace with the cost of living. This year, the average U.S. household has $16,061 in debt, nearly the… Read More »
Handling debt collectors in Florida around the holidays
When people in Florida owe old debts, they may be targeted by aggressive debt collectors. Debt collectors must follow the guidelines of the Fair Debt Collections Practices Act, including not calling at times that are inconvenient. Inconvenient times include calling before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m. There is no specific prohibition against debt… Read More »
Dealing with overwhelming medical debt in Florida
Many people who have large medical bills find themselves unable to pay them. Even if someone has insurance and a high-paying job, medical bills can still pile up. Individuals may have to meet a very high deductible before their insurance kicks in, and insurance does not always pay for 100 percent of the medical… Read More »
What are the differences between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy?
What are the differences between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy? Many people who are facing foreclosure seek bankruptcy protection as a way to save their homes. For some people, however, knowing which chapter to choose can be confusing. By taking the time to understand the basic differences between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13,… Read More »
How tax debt is handled in bankruptcy
Florida residents who file for bankruptcy may have some of their tax debt discharged. This outcome is far more likely for those who file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, and the tax debt must be at least three years old. While income taxes may be discharged, payroll taxes as well as penalties for fraud must… Read More »
How the CARD act impacts consumer lending
The Credit CARD Act was passed in 2009 in response to allegations of consumer abuse within the credit card industry. It was designed to provide greater protections to those who used credit cards or are applying for one in Florida or anywhere else in America. Specifically, the legislation said that banks were not allowed… Read More »
Defending a student loan default
When a borrower of a student loan falls behind on the payments and remains delinquent for a period of nine months, the student loan enters default. Because the Department of Education can then take steps to collect the debt, borrowers in Miami-Dade County and elsewhere across the country who are facing the consequences of… Read More »
The truth about debt negotiation
Debt negotiation companies offer help to people in Florida who are having trouble getting out of debt. While these companies can often help debtors to negotiate settlements with their creditors, there are downsides to using debt negotiation as a solution to debt problems. One of the downsides to debt negotiation is that the process… Read More »
Holiday shopping and credit card mistakes
Many people in Florida use credit cards to pay for holiday shopping. When a person has a big family to buy presents for, it can be tempting to use credit cards to pay for expensive gifts. However, credit cards can be dangerous around the holidays, especially for people who don’t make a lot of… Read More »
How Chapter 13 bankruptcy affects child and spousal support
Many Florida residents who file for Chapter 13 bankruptcy protection have outstanding child support and alimony debts. These financial obligations will not be canceled as a result of a bankruptcy, though the outstanding debts may not have to be paid in full. After a debtor completes the Chapter 13 bankruptcy process, obligations to make… Read More »