the Upsolve Team
Upsolve is fortunate to have a remarkable team of bankruptcy attorneys, as well as finance and consumer rights professionals, as contributing writers to help us keep our content up to date, informative, and helpful to everyone.
Articles written by the Upsolve Team
Everything You Need To Know About Debt Settlement
Written by Mae Koppes. Legally reviewed by Attorney Paige Hooper
Updated August 7, 2025
Debt settlement is a type of debt relief. If a creditor agrees to a debt settlement, you make a lump-sum payment for less than the total debt you owe and they forgive the rest. This can work well if you have a large sum of cash at hand. But many who've fallen behind on paying their debts don’t. If you try to save up money to settle a debt, you'll hurt your credit in the meantime if you stop making your debt payments.
Read More →What Is the Standard Repayment Plan for Student Loans?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated August 7, 2025
Standard repayment plans are available thanks to several different repayment option choices. These plans include extended, graduated, income-contingent, and income-based. All of these options provide borrowers with the ability to lower their monthly payments or extend the term of their loan thereby keeping their payments low.
Read More →Want To Get Rid of Student Loans? Try These 6 Ideas
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated August 7, 2025
If you feel like you’re drowning in student loan debt and need help managing or getting rid of it, you’re in luck. In this article, we rounded up six potential options to deal with overwhelming student loan debt, including loan forgiveness programs, loan discharge programs, loan settlement options, repayment plans, refinancing options, and bankruptcy.
Read More →How To Deal With Wakefield & Associates
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated August 7, 2025
Wakefield & Associates is a prolific debt collector in the United States that specializes in collecting medical debts. If Wakefield & Associates contacts you, the first thing you should do is validate the debt. This article explains the validation process and discusses your available options, like filing a dispute, negotiating a debt settlement, or ignoring the debt (which isn’t recommended).
Read More →How To Deal With Radius Global Solutions
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated August 7, 2025
Radius Global Solutions LLC is a legitimate debt collection agency that focuses on consumer debts. If Radius Global Solutions contacts you, validate the debt before you do anything else. Once you verify that the debt is yours, you can choose how to proceed. The main options you have are disputing the debt (if the information is incorrect or you disagree with the debt amount) or negotiating a settlement.
Read More →How To Deal With Northstar Location Services
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated August 7, 2025
Northstar Location Services LLC (a part of The Northstar Companies) is a legitimate debt collection agency that collects consumer debts. If Northstar contacts you, you need to validate the debt to ensure it is legitimate. After you confirm the debt is real and yours, you have a couple of options for moving forward with Northstar. You can dispute the debt (especially if you find inaccuracies or disagree with the specified amount), or you can negotiate to settle the debt. If you negotiate to settle the debt, you pay a portion of the total amount owed.
Read More →How To Deal With Midland Funding LLC
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated August 7, 2025
Midland Funding LLC is a legitimate debt collection agency that focuses on consumer debts under their parent company, Encore Capital Group — a major debt buyer. If Midland contacts you, you should first validate the alleged debt. Once you verify that the debt belongs to you, you can choose how to deal with Midland. Your main options are disputing the debt (if the information is incorrect or you disagree with the debt amount), or negotiating a settlement so you end up paying a portion of the debt.
Read More →How To Deal With MBA Law
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated August 7, 2025
MBA Law is a debt collection business that focuses on collecting medical debt. They usually start the process by mailing letters or notices to individuals with unpaid medical bills. If you receive a letter from MBA Law, validate the debt before you do anything else. If the debt is valid, you can then decide to pay it, contest it, negotiate a debt settlement, or ignore it (not recommended). Read on to learn more about these options and what they mean for your finances.
Read More →How To Deal With Harris & Harris
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated August 7, 2025
Harris & Harris is a legitimate debt collection agency focusing on consumer debts — specifically healthcare, government, and utility debt. If Harris & Harris contacts you, you should first validate the alleged debt. Once you verify that the debt belongs to you, you can choose how to move forward. The main options are to dispute the debt (if the information is incorrect or you disagree with the debt amount) or to negotiate a settlement so you end up paying a portion of the debt.
Read More →How To Deal With Aldous & Associates
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated August 7, 2025
Aldous & Associates PLLC is a legitimate law firm and debt collection agency that focuses on consumer debts in the health and fitness industry as well as telecommunications and property management. If Aldous & Associates contacts you, you’ll first want to validate the debt. Once you’ve confirmed that the debt is yours, you’re in control of how you want to move forward with Aldous & Associates. Rest assured, you have options. You can dispute (challenge) the debt if there are any mistakes or you don’t agree with the amount, or you can negotiate to settle the debt by paying only a portion of the total debt owed. You get to decide which approach works best for you and your financial situation.
Read More →The Complete Guide To Disputing Student Loans on Your Credit Report
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated August 7, 2025
Some student loan borrowers find errors on their credit report. So, it’s a good idea to get in the habit of checking your credit report from each of the big three credit reporting agencies — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion — at least once a year. Luckily, you can get your credit report for free, without impacting your credit score. You also have the right to dispute inaccurate information on your credit report and have it removed. Let’s review what to check for and how to deal with inaccuracies.
Read More →Mortgage Reinstatement: What Is It and How Does It Work?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated August 7, 2025
If you’re behind on your mortgage loan payments and are now getting back on your feet, a mortgage reinstatement can help you bring your mortgage current. If you reinstate your loan and start making regular payments again, you won’t have to fret over a potential foreclosure or losing your property. Keep reading and we’ll help you learn more about what a mortgage reinstatement is, how it works, and what you can do if you’re not able to reinstate your mortgage.
Read More →What Happens If The Bank Takes My Car?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated August 7, 2025
If you have fallen behind on your car loan, you may be wondering what happens next. How will you get to work with no car? Is it possible to get it back after it's been repossessed? In this article, you will learn how repossession works, what you can do after it has occurred, and how to avoid it in the first place.
Read More →What Are the Texas Bankruptcy Exemptions?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated August 7, 2025
Texas has more generous bankruptcy exemptions than many other states. It also allows bankruptcy filers to choose whether they want to use the Texas state bankruptcy exemptions or the federal bankruptcy exemptions. In many cases, the state exemptions are more beneficial to bankruptcy filers who own a home or car. But unlike the federal exemptions, Texas doesn’t offer a wildcard exemption to protect personal property of your choosing.
Read More →How To Stop Collection Calls: A Comprehensive Guide
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated August 7, 2025
If you have debt you’re struggling to manage, you don’t need the added stress of irritating collection calls. Keep reading to learn how you can stop debt collection calls from interrupting your life.
Read More →What Are Florida's Bankruptcy Exemptions?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated August 7, 2025
If you’ve been a Florida resident for at least two years and you file Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you’ll need to use the state’s exemptions to protect your property. Exemptions are laws that outline how much of different kinds of property are protected when you file a bankruptcy case. Most filers see that all their property is protected. In Florida, the homestead exemption protects all the equity you have in your home, given you meet a few criteria. The motor vehicle exemption is $5,000, and if you don’t use the homestead exemption, you can apply the $4,000 wildcard exemption to your vehicle (or any other property) as well.
Read More →What Are the Colorado Bankruptcy Exemptions?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated August 7, 2025
Bankruptcy exemptions help bankruptcy filers protect the property they own so they don't have to start over with nothing after their debts are discharged. Colorado has opted out of the federal bankruptcy exemptions, so residents must use the state exemptions instead. Fortunately, Colorado has generous bankruptcy exemptions, including a $250,000 homestead exemption (for filers under 60) and a $15,000 motor vehicle exemption.
Read More →How a Lawyer Can Help You With Car Repossession
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated August 7, 2025
Having your car taken back by a lender is understandably a terrible experience, and you might be wondering what your options are. Although there are steps you can take on your own, a lawyer knowledgeable about car repossession can help. Most importantly, they can explain the car repossession process and provide you with options specific to your situation. This article will explain how a lawyer can help you, what things lawyers cannot do in the event of a car repossession, and how to find a lawyer.
Read More →Bankruptcy for Senior Citizens
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated August 7, 2025
Filing any bankruptcy can be a complicated process but filing bankruptcy as a senior citizen can be especially challenging. This article will discuss when bankruptcy may be right for seniors, the types of bankruptcy and debt relief alternatives to filing for bankruptcy.
Read More →Your Credit Score Is Not Ruined Forever After a Bankruptcy Filing
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated August 6, 2025
Bankruptcy is a useful debt relief tool. It can give you a fresh start when unpaid debt becomes unmanageable. Sadly, many people attach a stigma to filing bankruptcy and fail to see its advantages and benefits. Instead, they focus on the notion that bankruptcy will forever ruin their credit. But this is just one of the many myths of bankruptcy. It often causes people to put off filing, which only delays bankruptcy’s benefits. While your credit score is affected by bankruptcy in the short term, we’ll discuss how your credit score is not permanently ruined by filing bankruptcy.
Read More →What Is Bankruptcy?
Written by Attorney Andrea Wimmer. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated August 6, 2025
Bankruptcy is a legal process that helps people eliminate or reorganize their debts and get a fresh start. Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy are the most common types of personal bankruptcy. Chapter 7 wipes out your eligible debts, including credit card debt, medical bills, and more, in a matter of months. Chapter 13 requires a multiyear repayment plan but can help you catch up on past-due car or home loan payments.
Read More →Your Rights After Your Lender Transfers Your Home Loan
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated August 5, 2025
If your lender sells or transfers your home loan, you have the right to be notified. This transfer won't change the terms of your loan, but you need to know who your new mortgage holder or servicer is so you can avoid negative consequences like payment issues, late fees, or credit problems.
Read More →What Is a Debt Management Plan?
Written by Mae Koppes. Legally reviewed by Attorney Paige Hooper
Updated August 5, 2025
A debt management plan allows you to combine your debts and make one monthly payment with a lower interest rate. It's set up by a credit counselor and usually takes 3-5 years to complete. Only certain kinds of debt, such as credit card debt, can be included in a DMP. If you have a lot of debt that's secured by collateral (like a house or car loan), a DMP may not be the best option. But you can look into other debt relief options including filing Chapter 13 bankruptcy.
Read More →Is the Money I Make From Self-Employment Considered Business Income, and How Will This Affect My Bankruptcy?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Lawyer John Coble
Updated July 30, 2025
If you're self-employed (as a sole proprietor, gig worker, or independent contractor) and you're struggling with business or personal debt, you can file personal bankruptcy like Chapter 7 or Chapter 13. If you have a separate business entity like an LLC or corporation, you also have the option to put your business into bankruptcy.
Read More →How To Deal With United Collection Bureau Inc.
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated July 22, 2025
United Collection Bureau Inc. (UCB) is a legitimate debt collection agency that focuses on consumer debts. If UCB contacts you, the first thing you need to do is validate the alleged debt. After confirming the debt is yours, you can decide how to address the situation with UCB. You can dispute the debt if there are inaccuracies or if you disagree with the debt amount, or you can negotiate the down amount down by offering a debt settlement.
Read More →How To Deal With Revco Solutions
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated July 22, 2025
Revco Solutions is a consumer debt collector and primarily collects past-due medical bills for its clients. In some cases, they also collect other types of consumer debt. If Revco Solutions contacts you, ask them to validate the debt before you do anything else. If they prove the debt is valid, you can decide how to proceed. You can dispute the debt, pay it in full, or negotiate the amount down.
Read More →How To Deal With RMP Services
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated July 22, 2025
Receivables Management Partners LLC (RMP Services) is a legitimate debt collection agency focusing on medical debt. If RMP Services contacts you, the first thing you’ll want to do is validate the debt. Once you verify that the debt belongs to you, you can choose how to deal with the collection agency. The main options you have are disputing the debt (if the information is incorrect or you disagree with the debt amount) or negotiating to pay a lower amount.
Read More →How To Deal With Pressler, Felt & Warshaw LLP
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated July 22, 2025
Pressler, Felt & Warshaw LLP is a debt collection law firm that represents creditors, debt collectors, and debt buyers. Pressler mostly collects consumer debts, like past-due credit card debt. They may initially contact you to collect a debt or to notify you that they filed a lawsuit against you. If Pressler, Felt & Warshaw reaches out to you, the first thing you should do is validate the debt. This guide explains how to do this and discusses your other options, such as disputing the debt or negotiating a debt settlement.
Read More →How To Deal With FBCS
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated July 22, 2025
FBCS is a debt collection agency that works for clients in various consumer and commercial industries. FBCS uses multiple collection methods, including phone calls and letters. No matter how FBCS contacts you, the first thing you should do is validate the debt. This guide explains how to verify a debt and goes over the options of disputing the debt and negotiating a debt settlement.
Read More →How To Deal With Cavalry SPV I LLC
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated July 22, 2025
Cavalry SPV I LLC (Cavalry Portfolio Services LLC) is a legitimate debt collection agency focusing on consumer debts, like credit card debt. If Cavalry SPV I LLC is contacting you, the first thing you’ll want to do is validate the debt. Once you verify that the debt belongs to you, you can choose how to deal with Cavalry. The main options you have are disputing the debt (if the information is incorrect or you disagree with the debt amount) or negotiating a settlement to pay less than you owe and resolve the matter.
Read More →How To Deal With Capio Partners
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated July 22, 2025
Capio Partners LLC is a third-party debt collection agency. They focus primarily on collecting past-due medical debt. If Capio Partners contacts you, make sure they validate the debt in writing before you do anything else. If the debt amount is wrong or you don’t owe the debt, dispute it. If you agree that you owe the debt, you can try to set up a payment plan or negotiate a debt settlement to pay less than the full amount you owe.
Read More →How To Win Against Wakefield and Associates
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated July 22, 2025
If Wakefield and Associates contacts you to collect a debt, make sure they’ve validated the debt before you decide what to do next. If they can prove the debt is valid but you disagree with the amount, you can dispute it. If you agree you owe that amount but can’t pay in full, try to negotiate a settlement to pay less. If Wakefield and Associates sues you, you must respond to their lawsuit even if you’re still negotiating the debt to avoid negative consequences.
Read More →How To Win Against United Collection Bureau
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated July 22, 2025
United Collection Bureau (UCB) is a debt collection agency. If UCB is reaching out to you, you may owe a debt that belongs to them. After confirming you owe the debt, you can negotiate a debt settlement for less than what you owe overall. If UCB files a lawsuit against you, respond immediately by filing an answer form and following all court procedures.
Read More →How To Win Against Resurgent Capital Services
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated July 22, 2025
If Resurgent Capital Services is reaching out to you, they’re likely trying to collect a debt. Before taking action or paying anything, make sure the debt they’re claiming you owe is valid. If it is, and you can’t afford to pay it, you can negotiate a debt settlement to pay less than you owe and settle the account for good. If Resurgent Capital Services sues you, respond immediately by filing an answer form. Read this article to learn how to win against a debt collector like Resurgent Capital Services.
Read More →How To Win Against Radius Global Solutions
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated July 22, 2025
Radius Global Solutions LLC is a debt collection agency. If they’re contacting you, they probably bought one of your accounts from a creditor and are now attempting to collect the debt. Before you pay, make sure the debt is legitimate. If it is, try to negotiate a debt settlement to pay less than you owe and get the account settled. If you ignore Radius Global Solutions and their collection efforts, they may file a lawsuit against you. If they sue you, respond right away.
Read More →How To Win Against Pressler, Felt & Warshaw LLP
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated July 22, 2025
Pressler, Felt & Warshaw LLP will contact you when they’re trying to collect a debt or inform you that they’ve sued you to collect a debt. If Pressler hasn’t sued you yet, you can fight back by making them validate the debt. If the debt is valid, you can try to settle it for less than what you owe. If you’ve been sued, respond to the lawsuit even if you’re trying to negotiate a settlement. Keep reading to find out how.
Read More →How To Win Against Northstar Location Services
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated July 22, 2025
Northstar Location Services is a debt collection agency. If they reach out to you, you need to take action. Start by validating the debt they claim you owe. If the debt is accurate and you agree you owe it, consider negotiating a debt settlement to pay only a portion of the full amount. If Northstar sues you, respond immediately by filing an answer form. You don’t have to hire a lawyer to respond to the lawsuit.
Read More →How To Win Against Harris & Harris
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated July 22, 2025
If Harris & Harris contacts you, respond and take action, as they are a recognized debt collection agency. Before you pay anything, validate the debt to confirm it is accurate and yours. If the debt is legitimate, you need to figure out how much of the debt you can pay and begin debt settlement negotiations. If Harris & Harris is suing you for unpaid debt, you can respond by using an answer form — even if you’re in the middle of negotiating or settling — and following your court’s procedures.
Read More →How To Win Against Frost-Arnett Company
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated July 22, 2025
Frost-Arnett is a debt collection agency. If Frost-Arnett contacts you, they’re probably trying to collect a past-due medical debt on behalf of a healthcare company they bought the debt from. If the debt is legitimate, you likely have to pay or face serious consequences. But don’t fret! You may not have to pay the full amount. You can try to negotiate a debt settlement to pay a portion of the debt and settle the account for good. If Frost-Arnett repeatedly contacts you and you ignore them, they could file a lawsuit against you. Respond to the lawsuit right away by filing an answer form with your court.
Read More →How To Win Against FBCS
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated July 22, 2025
FBCS is a third-party debt collector, so if they contact you, they’re probably trying to collect on a debt account. Before you pay anything, have FBCS validate the debt and confirm its details. Then you can decide what to do next. If you disagree with any aspect of the debt, you can file a dispute. If you agree you owe the debt and want to pay it, you can pay it in full or try to settle the debt for less than the full amount. If FBCS sues you, you’ll need to respond to the lawsuit.
Read More →How To Win Against Central Portfolio Control
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated July 22, 2025
If Central Portfolio Control contacts you, they probably bought a debt they believe you owe. Before paying anything, you need to validate the debt to confirm that it’s legitimate. If it is, figure out how much you can pay and begin debt settlement negotiations. If Central Portfolio Control is suing you for unpaid debt, you need to respond — even if you’re in the middle of settling the debt — and follow court procedures.
Read More →How To Win Against CBE Group
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated July 22, 2025
CBE Group (The CBE Group Inc) is a debt collection agency specializing in consumer debt collection. If CBE Group contacts you, then they have bought a debt of yours from a creditor or lender. Before you pay anything toward the debt, validate it to make sure it is legitimate. Then, figure out how much of the debt you can reasonably pay, and begin debt settlement negotiations. If CBE Group is suing you for unpaid debt, respond to the lawsuit immediately.
Read More →How To Win Against Cavalry SPV I LLC
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated July 22, 2025
If Cavalry SPV I LLC (Cavalry Portfolio Services LLC) contacts you, the most important thing you can do is to take action. You need to validate the debt and decide what you want to do next. You can either dispute the debt (if there are inaccuracies or if you disagree with the debt) or negotiate a debt settlement and pay less than the total debt amount. Unfortunately, if you ignore Cavalry and their collection efforts, they can file a lawsuit against you. If Cavalry files a lawsuit against you, you need to respond quickly. Read this article to find out how.
Read More →How To Win Against Capio Partners
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated July 22, 2025
If Capio Partners contacts you to try to collect a debt, the best thing you can do is get informed and respond. Before paying anything, validate the debt. If it’s your debt but you can’t afford to pay it, make a settlement offer to pay less than the original amount owed. If it isn’t your debt, dispute it. Capio is unlikely to sue, but if they do, you can probably still negotiate as long as you also meet the requirements of the lawsuit.
Read More →How To Win Against 11 Charter Communications
Written by the Upsolve Team.
Updated July 22, 2025
11 Charter Communications is in charge of debt collection for Charter Communications Inc, better known as Spectrum. After confirming that you have an unpaid debt with Spectrum, you can negotiate a debt settlement with 11 Charter Communications to clear the debt. If 11 Charter Communications files a debt collection lawsuit against you, you can respond on your own by filing an answer form.
Read More →What Happens if I Don’t Pay an Unsecured Loan?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated July 22, 2025
Unsecured debt is any debt that isn’t backed by collateral. The most common types of unsecured debt are credit card debt, student loans, personal loans, cash advances, medical debt, retail store accounts, and money borrowed from family or friends. If you default on unsecured debts, the lender can send your account to a collection agency, which can lead to stressful phone calls and notices, a lowered credit score, and more difficulty getting new credit in the future.
Read More →The Complete Guide To Medical Bills and Wage Garnishment
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated July 22, 2025
A healthcare provider can try to collect unpaid medical debts, just like any other debt collector might. A provider may even take legal action to garnish a patient’s wages if their collection efforts are ignored. Before a provider can take your wages, the facility or physician must sue you for nonpayment and win the case in court. If a healthcare provider wins a lawsuit against you, the court will award a judgment (court order) to the provider or its collection agent to garnish your wages. You may be able to avoid or stop a garnishment. Learn more in this article.
Read More →How To Deal With Debt Collectors (When You Can’t Pay)
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated July 21, 2025
If you’re being contacted by debt collectors for a debt you simply can’t repay, it’s important to know your rights to protect yourself from harassment and validate the debt. Once you know the debt is valid, look into your debt relief options. Getting a free consultation with a nonprofit credit counselor can help you understand your options and make a plan to deal with your debt.
Read More →What Is Credit Counseling?
Written by Attorney Tina Tran. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated July 21, 2025
Credit counseling is a great starting point for people who need help figuring out the best way to deal with their debt. Nonprofit credit counselors review your income and debt and help you develop a personalized plan to repay your debts. They’ll go over several potential debt relief solutions, including budgeting, starting a debt management plan, consolidating your debt, or filing bankruptcy.
Read More →What Are the Wisconsin Bankruptcy Exemptions?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 22, 2025
You will find a list of available exemptions in the federal Bankruptcy Code, or you may instead decide to use exemptions available under Wisconsin law. However, keep in mind that each state has the option of “opting out” of this scheme. Bankruptcy filers in an opt-out state may only use their state exemptions and not use the federal exemptions. As Wisconsin hasn’t opted out of the choice between state exemptions and federal exemptions, Wisconsinites who file bankruptcy can choose between federal bankruptcy exemptions or state exemptions. Actually, you will be happy to know that Wisconsin is one of the few US states that allows filers this choice, and this is a real advantage if you are filing Chapter 7 in the state. However, keep in mind that you are not allowed to cherry-pick exemptions from both lists; you can select only one set of exemptions. If you’re using Wisconsin law to exempt your property, you can also use the federal nonbankruptcy exemptions, if applicable. This also means that if you’re filing for bankruptcy in the state, you should review both sets of exemptions and then choose what scheme can best protect your property. Hiring an attorney can be helpful in this respect.
Read More →Should I File for Bankruptcy for Credit Card Debt?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 22, 2025
If you're overwhelmed by credit card debt, filing for bankruptcy may be a way to erase it and get a fresh financial start. Many people consider options like credit counseling or debt management first, but bankruptcy can be a powerful solution when other methods aren't enough. This article will help you understand if bankruptcy is the right choice for dealing with your credit card debt.
Read More →What Debts Can't You Get Rid of in Bankruptcy?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 22, 2025
Though bankruptcy provides real debt relief for folks who are struggling to make ends meet, not every debt is treated equally under bankruptcy law. Bankruptcy is a great way to get rid of credit card debt, medical bills, and personal and payday loans. But bankruptcy can’t wipe out recent income tax you owe, alimony, child support, or debt incurred from illegal acts (embezzlement, larceny, etc.) Though there’s a common misconception that student loan debt can’t be erased in bankruptcy, you can discharge, or wipe out, your student loan debt in Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy. You must prove that repaying it is causing undue hardship and that you’ve made good faith efforts to pay in the past.
Read More →What Debts Can't You Get Rid of in Bankruptcy?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 22, 2025
Though bankruptcy provides real debt relief for folks who are struggling to make ends meet, not every debt is treated equally under bankruptcy law. Bankruptcy is a great way to get rid of credit card debt, medical bills, and personal and payday loans. But bankruptcy can’t wipe out recent income tax you owe, alimony, child support, or debt incurred from illegal acts (embezzlement, larceny, etc.) Though there’s a common misconception that student loan debt can’t be erased in bankruptcy, you can discharge, or wipe out, your student loan debt in Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy. You must prove that repaying it is causing undue hardship and that you’ve made good faith efforts to pay in the past.
Read More →Can I File Bankruptcy Even Though I’m Unemployed?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 22, 2025
If you’re unemployed and your only source of income is unemployment benefits, you can still file Chapter 7 bankruptcy. To file Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you need a steady source of income, and unemployment benefits aren’t likely enough to cover the requirements for Chapter 13. While it’s possible and common for people to file Chapter 7 while unemployed, you’ll want to consider the timing of your case.
Read More →Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13 Bankruptcy: What’s the Difference?
Written by Attorney Andrea Wimmer. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 22, 2025
Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy are the two most common types of personal bankruptcy filings. Chapter 7 bankruptcy can wipe out unsecured debts like credit card debt and medical bills in just 3-4 months. Though the filing can stay on your credit report for 10 years. You must pass a means test and meet certain criteria to qualify for Chapter 7. Chapter 13 takes longer — usually 3-5 years — because filers are on a repayment plan. After the plan is up, any remaining unsecured debt is discharged. Chapter 7 can stay on your credit report for up to 7 years. Some filers choose Chapter 13 because they don’t qualify for Chapter 7 or because they own certain assets they want to protect. Even though there are differences between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy, each one grants the filer a fresh financial start in the form of a bankruptcy discharge — a court order that relieves you of your debt and bans creditors from trying to collect from you on this debt.
Read More →Debt Lawyers: Who Are They & What Do They Do?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Paige Hooper
Updated May 22, 2025
As a consumer, you have certain legal rights and protections. These rights extend to your interactions with debt collectors and collection agencies. If you’re being harassed by a debt collector, you can hire a debt lawyer to help you understand and defend your rights. These attorneys can also help defend you against debt collection lawsuits. If you just need help figuring out what to do about overwhelming debt, a debt settlement lawyer can explain your debt relief options and help you pursue them successfully.
Read More →How To Take the Pre-Bankruptcy Credit Counseling Course for Free
Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 21, 2025
Before you can file for bankruptcy, you must complete a credit counseling course from an approved provider. The course usually costs $10–$50, but many people qualify for a fee waiver based on their income. You can apply for the waiver when you sign up — just ask the agency if it’s available. If you're approved for the waiver, you can take the course for free and get your certificate. The course helps you understand your debt relief option and explore whether bankruptcy is the right option for you.
Read More →What Is an Automatic Stay In Bankruptcy?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 15, 2025
An automatic stay is a powerful protection that kicks in as soon as you file for bankruptcy. It stops most creditors from trying to collect debts. This means they can't call you, send letters, garnish your wages, or start or continue lawsuits against you. The protection lasts until your Chapter 7 bankruptcy case ends or the court lifts the stay.
Read More →What To Do if the Trustee Says You Owe Money to the Estate
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Paige Hooper
Updated May 15, 2025
If you own property that's not protected, or not fully protected, by exemptions, you may owe money to your bankruptcy estate. You can either pay the money into the estate and keep the property or asset, or you can surrender the property, keep the exempted amount, and not have to pay into the estate.
Read More →What You Need To Know About Divorce and Bankruptcy
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Paige Hooper
Updated May 15, 2025
If you and your spouse get along, you can file Chapter 7 together before you get divorced. Doing so means you'll benefit from larger exemptions and you can wipe out marital debt to ease the divorce process. If you don't get along well, you may want to get divorced first and file your case individually later. Once you file your bankruptcy case, the automatic stay goes into effect, which will delay your divorce proceeding.
Read More →Can You Arrange a Settlement With Student Loan Lenders?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 15, 2025
If your student loan is in default and you want to clear up your debt, you might be able to enter into a student loan settlement agreement. When you settle a debt, you negotiate with the lender to pay less than you owe in one lump sum. To negotiate a settlement agreement, your account must be in default. There are advantages and disadvantages to using this debt relief option. For example, you may end up paying less than the total amount you owe on your loan, but you must have a large lump sum available to complete your settlement. The settlement rules are different for federal student loans and private lender loans, so you’ll first need to determine what type(s) of student loan you have before weighing your options.
Read More →U.S. Bankruptcy by the Numbers: Who Is Filing the Most Bankruptcies?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 15, 2025
Individuals, businesses, and even cities file for bankruptcy. Both wealthy and financially strapped Americans may need to file for bankruptcy due to a variety of circumstances. Even rich, powerful people take advantage of this opportunity for debt relief.
Read More →What Is Non-Exempt Equity?
Written by Curtis Lee, JD. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 12, 2025
In Chapter 7 bankruptcy, there are exemptions to protect some of the equity you have in your assets, like a home, car, or household items. If the exemption for a certain item doesn’t cover all the equity you have in it, you have non-exempt equity. Depending on how much non-exempt you have, the bankruptcy trustee may liquidate (sell) the item and give the proceeds to your creditors.
Read More →What Are the Illinois Bankruptcy Exemptions?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 12, 2025
If you’ve been an Illinois resident for at least two years, you’ll need to use the state’s exemptions if you file Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Exemptions help you protect important property, from your household furnishings and clothing to your car and retirement accounts. The homestead exemption in Illinois is $15,000 (or $30,000 if you’re married and filing jointly). The motor vehicle exemption is $2,400. Illinois also offers a $4,000 wildcard exemption.
Read More →What Is a Time-Barred Debt?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 8, 2025
A time-barred debt is one where the creditor has missed the deadline to legally bring a claim against you in court. Unfortunately, debt collectors may still try to contact you about old debts that are time-barred by the statute of limitations. But there are ways to deal with these debt collectors. Read this article to learn more about how to tell if your debt is covered by a statute of limitations and what to do if you’re contacted by a creditor that is trying to collect a time-barred debt.
Read More →Chapter 7 Document Checklist
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 8, 2025
Filing bankruptcy is a very document intensive process. In this article, we’ll look at what documents you’ll need to gather to ensure your case proceeds smoothly and without unnecessary complications.
Read More →Sent to Collections Without Notice? Here’s What To Do Next
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 8, 2025
Creditors can legally send your debt to a collection agency without notifying you first. In most cases, you’ll have some notice that your account is at risk of being sent to collections. Once a debt collector has your debt, they’re legally required to provide you with a written notice of your debt account before they first contact you or within five days of their first contact with you.
Read More →I Paid Off My Wage Garnishment — Now What?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 8, 2025
After paying off your wage garnishment, it’s important to confirm that your employer or bank has stopped withholding money from your paycheck or account. Contact your employer’s payroll department or your bank to ensure they’ve received notice to end the garnishment. If money was garnished in error or continues to be withheld, you may need to follow up with the creditor or court to resolve the issue. Once the garnishment is fully resolved, you can focus on rebuilding your credit and taking steps to avoid future garnishments.
Read More →I Live in Washington State and Debt Collectors Are Calling
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 8, 2025
Washington state has two laws that protect you, the Consumer Protection Act (CPA) and the Collection Agency Act (CAA). The FDCPA is the minimum standard for states, but Washington’s laws increase the standards. It’s like having a low federal minimum wage and a higher state minimum wage. In this article, we’ll help you learn how Washington’s debt collection protection laws can help you stop debt collectors from calling.
Read More →What Is My Bankruptcy Discharge Date?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 8, 2025
A bankruptcy discharge date marks the end of your bankruptcy case. It happens when a judge signs the order erasing your responsibility to repay certain debts, like credit card bills or medical expenses. This date is listed on the discharge order, which the court will mail to you. Chapter 7 cases usually take 3–6 months, while Chapter 13 cases require completing a 3–5-year repayment plan before you can receive your discharge. Completing required steps, like the debtor education course, ensures there are no delays.
Read More →California Repossession Law
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 8, 2025
California law permits cars to be repossessed after one late or missed loan payment. Cars may be repossessed after missed insurance payments as well. There is no legally required grace period, and the repossession company doesn’t have to give you notice that they are repossessing your car.
Read More →What Is the Presumption of Abuse in Bankruptcy?
Written by Curtis Lee, JD. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 7, 2025
You need to meet certain eligibility requirements to file Chapter 7 bankruptcy. If your income is higher than the median income for a similar-sized household in your state, this flags the bankruptcy court of a "presumption of abuse." This doesn't mean you can't file Chapter 7 or that you've abused the system. It does mean you must do more calculations as part of the means test to prove that you don't make enough money to repay your debts and that you aren't taking advantage of the bankruptcy process.
Read More →Your Guide To Rebuilding Credit After Bankruptcy
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 7, 2025
A bankruptcy does not destroy your credit forever. Instead, following some simple tricks and taking advantage of the various credit repair tools can help you build a stronger credit report and higher credit score after filing for bankruptcy.
Read More →Your Guide To Rebuilding Credit After Bankruptcy
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 7, 2025
A bankruptcy does not destroy your credit forever. Instead, following some simple tricks and taking advantage of the various credit repair tools can help you build a stronger credit report and higher credit score after filing for bankruptcy.
Read More →What Is Mortgage Deferral and How Does It Help Homeowners?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 6, 2025
If you’re experiencing a temporary hardship and need a little breathing room on your mortgage payments, you may be able to get a deferral or you can ask your lender for a late fee waiver. A mortgage payment deferral is designed to help you get back on track so that you can keep making your payments on time.
Read More →Upsolve's Commitments to Our Users
Written by the Upsolve Team.
Updated May 6, 2025
Upsolve is here to empower you. We understand how stressful it is to navigate debt, low credit scores, and bankruptcy on your own. You deserve support that helps you regain control of your financial health. Here's what you can expect from us.
Read More →California Debt Collection Laws
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 6, 2025
California has two important laws — the Rosenthal Act and the Debt Collection Licensing Act — that protect California residents against original creditor and third-party debt collector harassment and abuse. Californians also benefit from the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, which offers many protections and gives you certain rights. The statute of limitations for most consumer debt is four years in California.
Read More →What Is A Charge Off On A Car Loan?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 6, 2025
A charge-off on a car loan is when the creditor declares the debt uncollectible. The creditor can still collect the charged-off debt and you still owe it.
Read More →Wage Garnishment Exemptions
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 5, 2025
A wage garnishment allows your creditor to take money directly from your paycheck or sometimes your bank account. It is important to know what income is exempt from being garnished for your claim of exemption. This article will discuss what happens in wage garnishment and how you can keep income from being garnished that is protected by exemptions.
Read More →Is an Income-Contingent Repayment Plan Right for You?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 5, 2025
The Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR) Plan is one of four income-driven repayment options for federal student loans. It’s the only one of these four options that parent PLUS borrowers can utilize, which is one of the main upsides, if you have that kind of loan. The ICR has the longest repayment period of any income-driven plan at 25 years. This allows for lower monthly payments for borrowers but, the total amount paid over the loan's lifespan, including interest, is generally higher compared to other plans.
Read More →What are Priority Unsecured Debts?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 1, 2025
We usually hear debts divided into two categories: secured and unsecured. A debt is secured if the lender has a security interest in some property and can take that property if you don’t pay. But, in bankruptcy, there are other important distinctions. Some unsecured debts get special treatment. In this article, we’ll explain the different types of unsecured debt, and what it means when a debt has priority.
Read More →Information on My Credit Report Was Removed. Now It’s Back!
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated April 29, 2025
Disputing and removing incorrect information on your credit report can be tedious and time-consuming. So having one of these items reappear on your credit report can be frustrating. This information may have negatively affected your credit and even cost you money. So now that you’ve had this “blast from the past” reappear, what do you do? This article will help you understand when items can be legitimately reinserted onto your credit history and credit profile. It will also help explain how to do credit repair and remove illegitimate items once again from your credit report.
Read More →What Is Debt Consolidation?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Paige Hooper
Updated April 29, 2025
Debt consolidation is when you combine multiple debts into one. The goal of consolidating your debt is to reduce your monthly payment and get a lower interest rate. It also simplifies your debt repayment, so you're less likely to miss payments each month. Debt consolidation loans and credit card balance transfers are two common types of debt consolidation.
Read More →What Is Debt Consolidation?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Paige Hooper
Updated April 29, 2025
Debt consolidation is when you combine multiple debts into one. The goal of consolidating your debt is to reduce your monthly payment and get a lower interest rate. It also simplifies your debt repayment, so you're less likely to miss payments each month. Debt consolidation loans and credit card balance transfers are two common types of debt consolidation.
Read More →What Is the IRS Statute of Limitations?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated April 28, 2025
Most people in the United States have to deal with tax issues at least once in their lives. If those tax issues lead to tax debt, generally, the IRS has 10 years to collect it. The 10 year period starts with the filing of the return or assessment by the IRS. However, there are a few situations that can pause this 10-year period, which gives the IRS more time to collect.
Read More →5 Solid Steps for Negotiating With Debt Collectors
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated April 22, 2025
If your debt has been turned over to a debt collection agency, negotiating with that debt collector may seem intimidating. But in many cases, negotiating with creditors or lenders isn’t as hard as you may think. To successfully negotiate a debt settlement agreement: - Verify the debt and debt collector - Know your rights - Review your finances and develop a plan - Start negotiating the settlement and be prepared for counteroffers - Get the agreement in writing
Read More →Principal-Only Payments: Are They a Good Idea?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated April 22, 2025
The fastest way to pay off any type of debt or loan is by paying off all of the principal as soon as possible. This makes principal-only payments an attractive option for those who have a lot of debt, especially high-interest debt from credit cards. While this type of monthly payment is not available from all lenders, a principal-only payment can save you big money on interest payments over time. Read more to learn more about principal-only payments and the pros and cons of making them.
Read More →How To Dispute or Reduce Expensive Medical Bills
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated April 21, 2025
Even if you have health insurance, deductibles, copays, and non-covered services can add up quickly. Without health insurance, medical bills become unmanageable fast. Some people don’t realize you can negotiate medical bills. Also, billing mistakes can lead to overcharges. Here are some tips for dealing with expensive medical bills: - Compare your itemized bill to your insurer’s explanation of benefits - Ensure you were charged for the correct services and dispute errors - If your insurer denies a claim for services that should be covered, appeal the decision - Ask for financial assistance from the provider and explore community resources - Negotiate your medical bills by offering payment - Know your rights around surprise medical bills - Don’t use credit cards to pay medical bills (to avoid mounting interest/fees and consequences to your credit)
Read More →What Is Post-Petition Debt?
Written by Jonathan Petts. Legally reviewed by Ben Jackson
Updated April 21, 2025
Debt you acquire after you file your bankruptcy petition is called post-petition debt. Post-petition debt won't be discharged in your bankruptcy. But post-petition debt isn't the same as debt you forgot to include on your bankruptcy forms.
Read More →How To Calculate Your Income for Your Bankruptcy Forms if You’re Self-Employed
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 17, 2025
If you're self-employed, you probably don't get regular paycheck stubs. This can make it trickier to figure out your income, which you'll need to do to file for bankruptcy. You'll also want to know your business expenses, so you can calculate your net income. This article explains how to calculate your income if you're a sole proprietor, gig worker, or independent contractor.
Read More →What Is a Co-Debtor and How Does My Bankruptcy Affect Them?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 17, 2025
A co-debtor is someone who took out a loan with you. In doing so, they agreed to be equally responsible for repaying the loan or debt. If you have debts with co-debtors and you don't reaffirm the debt in a Chapter 7 case, your co-debtor will be solely responsible for repaying the debt if you get a bankruptcy discharge. If you file Chapter 13 bankruptcy, the automatic stay will protect both you and the co-debtor so long as you make the payments outlined in your repayment plan.
Read More →What Is a Co-Debtor and How Does My Bankruptcy Affect Them?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 17, 2025
A co-debtor is someone who took out a loan with you. In doing so, they agreed to be equally responsible for repaying the loan or debt. If you have debts with co-debtors and you don't reaffirm the debt in a Chapter 7 case, your co-debtor will be solely responsible for repaying the debt if you get a bankruptcy discharge. If you file Chapter 13 bankruptcy, the automatic stay will protect both you and the co-debtor so long as you make the payments outlined in your repayment plan.
Read More →What Is the Difference Between an EIN, TIN, and ITIN?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 30, 2025
The acronyms EIN, TIN, and ITIN are used by the IRS to identify the different types of tax ID numbers. The main difference between an EIN and an ITIN or TIN is that an EIN is used for business entities while an ITIN is used for individuals. TIN is an umbrella term for the various kinds of taxpayer identification numbers.
Read More →Can You Get Student Loan Forgiveness if You Drop Out?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 2025
Most people go to college with hopes of getting a degree and creating a good life for themselves. Unfortunately, unforeseen hardships — often financial — lead many students to drop out before they finish their degree. If that’s you, know that you have options to deal with your student loan debt! You may still qualify for student loan forgiveness programs like Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), or loan forgiveness after paying on an income-based repayment plan. If you need a temporary repayment pause while you find work or figure out your next steps, you can apply for forbearance or deferment.
Read More →Who Pays for Bankruptcies?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 30, 2025
When individuals find themselves in debt, bankruptcy can be a solution that gives you a fresh start. But when someone files for bankruptcy, who pays for it? Learn more here.
Read More →Stop Unwanted Calls From 800-955-6600: A Step-by-Step Guide
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 16, 2025
Are you receiving repeated phone calls and voicemails from 800-955-6600? This number belongs to Northland Group, a debt collection agency usually working on behalf of Capital One. They're probably calling about an unpaid debt. If Northland Group contacts you, it's best not to ignore the calls, but you don't need to panic either. This guide will walk you through how to verify the debt, stop the calls, and resolve the situation in a way that protects your rights and financial health.
Read More →PACER Guide: How To Get Your Court Notices Without an Attorney
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated August 20, 2024
PACER stands for Public Access to Court Electronic Records. It’s a system to access case information, the docket, and the documents filed in a particular case electronically.
Read More →Can You Remove Collection Accounts From Your Credit Report?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated August 30, 2023
If you have a debt sent to collections, it will be recorded on your credit report and hurt your credit score. Sometimes collections accounts are incorrectly reported or reported on old debt. If there are errors regarding collections accounts on your credit report, you have the legal right to dispute them and have them removed. This shouldn't cost you anything. You can also write a goodwill letter to ask the creditor or collection agency to remove the collections account from your report. This isn’t guaranteed to work, but it won’t hurt to ask. If the information about the collections account is correct and current, you can’t have it removed from your credit report. Be aware that so-called credit repair companies that offer to clean up your credit report for a fee may be a scam.
Read More →Student Loan Forgiveness for Healthcare Workers: The Ultimate Guide
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated August 29, 2023
There are many programs designed specifically for healthcare workers to receive student loan forgiveness. Most serve specific types of healthcare workers and have other requirements around the length of time you work in healthcare and where you work. Consider each of these factors as you look at your options. If you’re struggling to pay your loans, you can also consider applying for a loan deferment or forbearance or switching to an income-driven repayment plan to help make your monthly payments more manageable.
Read More →How Does Bankruptcy Affect Alimony?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Lawyer John Coble
Updated May 4, 2022
Alimony impacts your bankruptcy case differently if you’re paying alimony than if you’re receiving alimony. If you pay alimony, you must list it on your Schedule J as an expense. You must also usually continue to make payments while your case is pending and after you receive your bankruptcy discharge. Bankruptcy doesn’t eliminate your obligation to pay court-ordered alimony. If you receive alimony, you must list the amount as income on Schedule I and on the means test calculation form.
Read More →How To File Bankruptcy for Free in West Virginia
Written by Attorney Andrea Wimmer, the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Paige Hooper
Updated August 5, 2025
Filing for bankruptcy doesn’t have to be scary and confusing. We provide helpful tips and resources to help you file Chapter 7 bankruptcy in your state without a lawyer.
How To File Bankruptcy for Free in Virginia
Written by Attorney Andrea Wimmer, the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Paige Hooper
Updated August 5, 2025
Filing for bankruptcy doesn’t have to be scary and confusing. We provide helpful tips and resources to help you file Chapter 7 bankruptcy in your state without a lawyer.
How To File Bankruptcy for Free in Rhode Island
Written by Attorney Andrea Wimmer, the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated August 5, 2025
Filing for bankruptcy doesn’t have to be scary and confusing. We provide helpful tips and resources to help you file Chapter 7 bankruptcy in your state without a lawyer.
How To File Bankruptcy for Free in North Dakota
Written by Attorney Andrea Wimmer, the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated August 5, 2025
Filing for bankruptcy doesn’t have to be scary and confusing. We provide helpful tips and resources to help you file Chapter 7 bankruptcy in your state without a lawyer.
How To File Bankruptcy for Free in Montana
Written by Attorney Andrea Wimmer. Legally reviewed by the Upsolve Team
Updated August 5, 2025
Filing for bankruptcy doesn’t have to be scary and confusing. We provide helpful tips and resources to help you file Chapter 7 bankruptcy in your state without a lawyer.
How To File Bankruptcy for Free in Alabama
Written by Attorney Andrea Wimmer, the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated August 5, 2025
Filing for bankruptcy doesn’t have to be scary and confusing. We provide helpful tips and resources to help you file Chapter 7 bankruptcy in your state without a lawyer.
Wage Garnishment in Wyoming
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 22, 2025
A wage garnishment order allows creditors to take money directly from your paycheck. Most of the time, this is only possible after a court has entered a judgment. Here's how Wyoming regulates wage garnishments.
Wage Garnishment in Montana
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 22, 2025
A wage garnishment order allows creditors to take money directly from your paycheck. Most of the time, this is only possible after a court has entered a judgment. Here's how Montana regulates wage garnishments.
Wage Garnishment in the District of Columbia
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 22, 2025
A wage garnishment order allows creditors to take money directly from your paycheck. Most of the time, this is only possible after a court has entered a judgment. Here's how District of Columbia regulates wage garnishments.
Wage Garnishment in Alaska
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 22, 2025
A wage garnishment order allows creditors to take money directly from your paycheck. Most of the time, this is only possible after a court has entered a judgment. Here's how Alaska regulates wage garnishments.
Wage Garnishment in West Virginia
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 22, 2025
A wage garnishment order allows creditors to take money directly from your paycheck. Most of the time, this is only possible after a court has entered a judgment. Here's how West Virginia regulates wage garnishments.
Wage Garnishment in South Dakota
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 22, 2025
A wage garnishment order allows creditors to take money directly from your paycheck. Most of the time, this is only possible after a court has entered a judgment. Here's how South Dakota regulates wage garnishments.
Wage Garnishment in South Carolina
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 22, 2025
A wage garnishment order allows creditors to take money directly from your paycheck. Most of the time, this is only possible after a court has entered a judgment. Here's how South Carolina regulates wage garnishments.
Wage Garnishment in Maine
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 22, 2025
A wage garnishment order allows creditors to take money directly from your paycheck. Most of the time, this is only possible after a court has entered a judgment. Here's how Maine regulates wage garnishments.
Wage Garnishment in North Carolina
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 22, 2025
A wage garnishment order allows creditors to take money directly from your paycheck. Most of the time, this is only possible after a court has entered a judgment. Here's how North Carolina regulates wage garnishments.
Wage Garnishment in Minnesota
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 22, 2025
A wage garnishment order allows creditors to take money directly from your paycheck. Most of the time, this is only possible after a court has entered a judgment. Here's how Minnesota regulates wage garnishments.
Wage Garnishment in Oregon
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 22, 2025
A wage garnishment order allows creditors to take money directly from your paycheck. Most of the time, this is only possible after a court has entered a judgment. Here's how Oregon regulates wage garnishments.
Wage Garnishment in Oklahoma
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 22, 2025
A wage garnishment order allows creditors to take money directly from your paycheck. Most of the time, this is only possible after a court has entered a judgment. Here's how Oklahoma regulates wage garnishments.
Wage Garnishment in Ohio
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 22, 2025
A wage garnishment order allows creditors to take money directly from your paycheck. Most of the time, this is only possible after a court has entered a judgment. Here's how Ohio regulates wage garnishments.
Wage Garnishment in Georgia
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 22, 2025
A wage garnishment order allows creditors to take money directly from your paycheck. Most of the time, this is only possible after a court has entered a judgment. Here's how Georgia regulates wage garnishments.
Wage Garnishment in Pennsylvania
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 22, 2025
A wage garnishment order allows creditors to take money directly from your paycheck. Most of the time, this is only possible after a court has entered a judgment. Here's how Pennsylvania regulates wage garnishments.
Wage Garnishment in Texas
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 22, 2025
A wage garnishment order allows creditors to take money directly from your paycheck. Most of the time, this is only possible after a court has entered a judgment. Here's how Texas regulates wage garnishments.
Wage Garnishment in California
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 22, 2025
A wage garnishment order allows creditors to take money directly from your paycheck. Most of the time, this is only possible after a court has entered a judgment. Here's how California regulates wage garnishments.
Wage Garnishment in Tennessee
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 22, 2025
A wage garnishment order allows creditors to take money directly from your paycheck. Most of the time, this is only possible after a court has entered a judgment. Here's how Tennessee regulates wage garnishments.
Eviction Laws and Tenant Rights in New Hampshire
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 8, 2025
Landlords in New Hampshire can’t just change the locks, toss your belongings out on the front yard, or shut down essential utilities. A landlord must follow the eviction process in order to have a tenant evicted for any reason. Here's an overview of what this means for tenants in New Hampshire.
Eviction Laws and Tenant Rights in North Carolina
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 8, 2025
Landlords in North Carolina can’t just change the locks, toss your belongings out on the front yard, or shut down essential utilities. A landlord must follow the eviction process in order to have a tenant evicted for any reason. Here's an overview of what this means for tenants in North Carolina.
Eviction Laws and Tenant Rights in Maryland
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 8, 2025
Landlords in Maryland can’t just change the locks, toss your belongings out on the front yard, or shut down essential utilities. A landlord must follow the eviction process in order to have a tenant evicted for any reason. Here's an overview of what this means for tenants in Maryland.
Eviction Laws and Tenant Rights in Vermont
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 6, 2025
Landlords in Vermont can’t just change the locks, toss your belongings out on the front yard, or shut down essential utilities. A landlord must follow the eviction process in order to have a tenant evicted for any reason. Here's an overview of what this means for tenants in Vermont.
Eviction Laws and Tenant Rights in Georgia
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 5, 2025
Landlords in Georgia can’t just change the locks, toss your belongings out on the front yard, or shut down essential utilities. A landlord must follow the eviction process in order to have a tenant evicted for any reason. Here's an overview of what this means for tenants in Georgia.
Eviction Laws and Tenant Rights in Connecticut
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 1, 2025
Landlords in Connecticut can’t just change the locks, toss your belongings out on the front yard, or shut down essential utilities. A landlord must follow the eviction process in order to have a tenant evicted for any reason. Here's an overview of what this means for tenants in Connecticut.
Eviction Laws and Tenant Rights in Maine
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 1, 2025
Landlords in Maine can’t just change the locks, toss your belongings out on the front yard, or shut down essential utilities. A landlord must follow the eviction process in order to have a tenant evicted for any reason. Here's an overview of what this means for tenants in Maine.
Repossession Laws in Nebraska
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 1, 2025
Repossession is the process of taking back a car after the owner defaults on their auto loan. Each state has different laws and regulations that dictate every step of the repossession process from start to finish. This page will provide an overview of Nebraska's Repossession Laws and what you should know if you've fallen behind on car payments.
Eviction Laws and Tenant Rights in Montana
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated April 29, 2025
Landlords in Montana can’t just change the locks, toss your belongings out on the front yard, or shut down essential utilities. A landlord must follow the eviction process in order to have a tenant evicted for any reason. Here's an overview of what this means for tenants in Montana.
Eviction Laws and Tenant Rights in Texas
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated April 22, 2025
Landlords in Texas can’t just change the locks, toss your belongings out on the front yard, or shut down essential utilities. A landlord must follow the eviction process in order to have a tenant evicted for any reason. Here's an overview of what this means for tenants in Texas.
Eviction Laws and Tenant Rights in Virginia
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated April 21, 2025
Landlords in Virginia can’t just change the locks, toss your belongings out on the front yard, or shut down essential utilities. A landlord must follow the eviction process in order to have a tenant evicted for any reason. Here's an overview of what this means for tenants in Virginia.
Eviction Laws and Tenant Rights in Arizona
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated April 21, 2025
Landlords in Arizona can’t just change the locks, toss your belongings out on the front yard, or shut down essential utilities. A landlord must follow the eviction process in order to have a tenant evicted for any reason. Here's an overview of what this means for tenants in Arizona.
Eviction Laws and Tenant Rights in Florida
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated April 18, 2025
Landlords in Florida can’t just change the locks, toss your belongings out on the front yard, or shut down essential utilities. A landlord must follow the eviction process in order to have a tenant evicted for any reason. Here's an overview of what this means for tenants in Florida.
Repossession Laws in Mississippi
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated April 17, 2025
Repossession is the process of taking back a car after the owner defaults on their auto loan. Each state has different laws and regulations that dictate every step of the repossession process from start to finish. This page will provide an overview of Mississippi's Repossession Laws and what you should know if you've fallen behind on car payments.
Eviction Laws and Tenant Rights in South Carolina
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated April 16, 2025
Landlords in South Carolina can’t just change the locks, toss your belongings out on the front yard, or shut down essential utilities. A landlord must follow the eviction process in order to have a tenant evicted for any reason. Here's an overview of what this means for tenants in South Carolina.
Eviction Laws and Tenant Rights in West Virginia
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated April 16, 2025
Landlords in West Virginia can’t just change the locks, toss your belongings out on the front yard, or shut down essential utilities. A landlord must follow the eviction process in order to have a tenant evicted for any reason. Here's an overview of what this means for tenants in West Virginia.
Eviction Laws and Tenant Rights in Oregon
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated April 16, 2025
Landlords in Oregon can’t just change the locks, toss your belongings out on the front yard, or shut down essential utilities. A landlord must follow the eviction process in order to have a tenant evicted for any reason. Here's an overview of what this means for tenants in Oregon.
Eviction Laws and Tenant Rights in Alabama
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated August 21, 2024
Landlords in Alabama can’t just change the locks, toss your belongings out on the front yard, or shut down essential utilities. A landlord must follow the eviction process in order to have a tenant evicted for any reason. Here's an overview of what this means for tenants in Alabama.
Repossession Laws in New Hampshire
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated March 22, 2024
Repossession is the process of taking back a car after the owner defaults on their auto loan. Each state has different laws and regulations that dictate every step of the repossession process from start to finish. This page will provide an overview of New Hampshire's Repossession Laws and what you should know if you've fallen behind on car payments.
Repossession Laws in North Carolina
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated March 22, 2024
Repossession is the process of taking back a car after the owner defaults on their auto loan. Each state has different laws and regulations that dictate every step of the repossession process from start to finish. This page will provide an overview of North Carolina's Repossession Laws and what you should know if you've fallen behind on car payments.
Repossession Laws in Rhode Island
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated March 22, 2024
Repossession is the process of taking back a car after the owner defaults on their auto loan. Each state has different laws and regulations that dictate every step of the repossession process from start to finish. This page will provide an overview of Rhode Island's Repossession Laws and what you should know if you've fallen behind on car payments.
