Tag Archives: Chapter 13
How to avoid being scammed by debt relief companies
Florida residents likely hold a portion of America’s collective $1.4 trillion student loan debt. Those who are trying to manage their debt may be tempted by offers from companies or other parties claiming that they help them accomplish that goal. However, many of those companies may be doing nothing more than peddling scams to… Read More »
Consumer credit and bankruptcy
Many people living in Florida understand that credit can be a two-edged sword. Being able to take out a mortgage, car loan or obtain a credit card can be a solid financial strategy. Yet, taking out too much debt can result in extreme stress and even financial disaster if one’s income becomes insufficient for… Read More »
Post-bankruptcy credit cards
When Florida residents complete the bankruptcy process, many are eager to take advantage of their financial fresh start and reestablish creditworthiness. While it is true that credit scores take a significant hit after a bankruptcy, making it hard to get credit or qualify for a loan, it isn’t impossible to get a credit card…. Read More »
Debt reduction mistakes
Many Florida residents are living with increasing amounts of debt. In most cases, they genuinely want to meet their obligations. However, without guidance from a financial professional, people often make serious mistakes that either slow down their debt repayment or make matters worse. The first mistake that many people make is not making a… Read More »
What you should know about bankruptcy
Florida consumers often consider filing for bankruptcy If they have been struggling with a lot of debt. While this option isn’t right for everyone, many people find that it is the most efficient way to deal with problematic debt and to seek a fresh financial start. Before filing for bankruptcy, there are a few… Read More »
How to deal with unpaid medical debts
Florida residents may feel anxiety or stress after hearing from a debt collector about an unpaid medical bill. In some cases, those who couldn’t afford to pay their bill originally may not be in a position to pay it after getting that call. Those who are facing a lawsuit over an unpaid medical debt… Read More »
Over half of all Americans keep credit card debt for years
According to a study conducted by Creditcards.com, most adults in Florida and around the country carry credit card debt for two years or more. The study looked at the credit card debt of more than 2,000 U.S. adults and found that half the people with debt had been carrying a balance for at least… Read More »
Equifax changes policy on bankruptcy reporting
Florida residents may be aware that a Chapter 13 bankruptcy normally stays on a credit report for seven years. However, the credit reporting agency Equifax kept Chapter 13 filings on credit reports for 10 years if a person failed to complete the bankruptcy plan. After ProPublica asked Equifax why it reported such information differently… Read More »
Once again, Americans are being saddled with credit card debt
In the wake of the 2008 crash of Wall Street and the American banking system, many consumers across Florida lost their jobs, their home equity and their ability to pay their credit card bills. For many Americans, the Great Recession left them with piles of unsecured debt and the grim prospect of facing repossessions,… Read More »
Facing credit card debt
Credit card debt is a problem for many Florida residents. According to the Federal Reserve, the average American household has over $8,000 in debt. Collectively, Americans have credit card debt totaling more than one trillion dollars. For individuals, being unable to pay credit card bills on time can cause a feeling of panic, but… Read More »