
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
What Happens After You Attend the 341 Meeting?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated February 1, 2025
After your 341 meeting, you’re in the final stages of your Chapter 7 bankruptcy case. The court will typically grant your discharge 60–90 days later, wiping out most or all of your eligible debts and giving you a fresh financial start. If the trustee determines your case is a no-asset case, it will likely be closed soon after the discharge is entered. However, if the trustee finds non-exempt assets, the process may take longer as they work to distribute funds to creditors, though your discharge won’t be affected.
Read More →Bankruptcy and the Homestead Exemption
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 2025
Bankruptcy exemptions play an important role in Chapter 7 cases, and the homestead exemption may be the most important of all. It’s the homestead exemption that makes it possible for many people to wipe out unsecured debt in Chapter 7 bankruptcy without losing their homes. In this article, you’ll learn how the homestead exemption may protect your house in bankruptcy. We’ll also touch on some of the limitations of the homestead exemption. And, we’ll discuss alternatives for people who aren’t fully protected by their state’s exemptions.
Read More →Can I Lose My Tax Refund if I Default on Student Loans?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 2025
Yes, unfortunately your tax refund can be taken (garnished) if you’ve defaulted on your federal student loan. Federal student loans are guaranteed by the U.S. government, and the government has power over tax refunds. Only federal student loan borrowers are subject to tax garnishments. Private student loan holders can have their wages or bank account garnished, but the private lender cannot garnish your tax refund and must take extra steps, such as going through the courts, to order a garnishment. In this article, we explain the student loan tax garnishment process and give you some tips on how to keep your tax refund money safe from garnishment.
Read More →10 Options if You Can’t Make Your Student Loan Payments
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 2025
If your student loans are coming due and you can’t afford the payments, don’t panic. This article explores 10 strategies to help: 1. Apply for an income-driven repayment plan. 2. Refinance your loans. 3. Seek financial counseling. 4. Increase your income and/or lower expenses. 5. Consolidate your loans. 6. Set up automatic payments. 7. Request student loan deferment. 8. Apply for student loan forbearance. 9. Negotiate with your lender. 10. File bankruptcy to erase student loans for good.
Read More →Chapter 7 Document Checklist
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 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 →Corporate Bankruptcy Explained
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 2025
When a corporation gets into financial trouble, the company may be able to file for bankruptcy protection. In some ways, corporate bankruptcy is like consumer bankruptcy. But, there are also important differences. In this article, you’ll learn how the two types of business bankruptcy differ, how each works, and how corporate bankruptcy is different from personal bankruptcy.
Read More →What Is Credit Counseling?
Written by Attorney Tina Tran. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 30, 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 →Debt Consolidation vs. Bankruptcy – Which Is Better?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 2025
Almost anyone who is experiencing difficulty paying their bills and considering filing for bankruptcy will come across advertisements or solicitations for something known as debt consolidation. This article will discuss the difference between debt consolidation and bankruptcy and give you some help in deciding which is better for you.
Read More →What Is Debt Consolidation?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Paige Hooper
Updated January 30, 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 January 30, 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 →Eviction 101
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 2025
Like most property laws, the relationship between landlords and tenants is regulated by state law. Because eviction laws vary from state to state, there is no uniform law of eviction. These state eviction laws lay out rules that landlords must follow in order to evict tenants. This article will explain some basic facts about eviction.
Read More →How Long Does It Take To Improve Your Credit Score?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 2025
Many people want to improve their credit score, especially if they have bad credit. You can improve your credit score in a relatively short time, sometimes less than a year or even just a few months. This article will explain what factors determine your credit score and how you can improve yours.
Read More →How Much Debt Do I Need To File for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 2025
Bankruptcy laws don't specify a minimum debt requirement to file Chapter 7 bankruptcy. As long as you qualify to file and meet all the requirements, you can file Chapter 7 and have your dischargeable debts wiped away.
Read More →Credit Score DIY: How To Fix Your Credit on Your Own
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 2025
Credit scores impact our lives whether we like it or not. Fortunately, anyone can take steps to improve their credit score. If you’re ready to improve your credit score or you just want to find out more, keep reading to learn what you can do to fix your credit score on your own.
Read More →What Debts Can't You Get Rid of in Bankruptcy?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 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 January 30, 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 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 →How To Buy a Car After Repossession
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 2025
Repossession might feel like an insurmountable obstacle to getting another car. It’s important to realize that you can repair bad credit. Working to reach a healthy financial situation after a repossession means that even this unpleasant experience will move into the past.
Read More →Want To Pay Off Student Loan Debt? Ask These 9 Questions
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 2025
There are many ways to strategize to pay off student loan debt. You can develop a personalized strategy by exploring: - Your current financial situation - Your student loan (and how it compares to other debt you may have) - Your financial goals - Your risk tolerance and debt-repayment timeline - The type of student loans you have and their repayment options - Streamlining repayment through loan consolidation or refinancing
Read More →What’s the Best Student Loan Repayment Plan for Me?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 2025
The best student loan repayment plan is the one that works for you, your goals, and your financial situation. To figure out your best option, do your research and consider the pros and cons of each plan. (Hint: Consider whether the monthly payment will be affordable and also how much interest you’ll pay over the life of the loan.) Then sign up for the plan that makes the most sense for you. The good news is that the federal government provides a lot of flexibility to borrowers, and you can change your repayment plan anytime. There are four types of federal student loan repayment plans. Most borrowers stick with the 10-year Standard Repayment Plan or choose an income-driven repayment plan. Though they are less common, Graduated Repayment Plans or Extended Repayment Plans offer a smart option for some borrowers.
Read More →Where Do I Find Out How Much I Owe in Student Loans?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 2025
If you want to go back to school, finance a house, manage your debt, or file for bankruptcy, you’ll want to find out how much you owe in student loans. It might feel like you need a degree in finance to keep track of your financial aid, but we’re here to help! Below, we detail how to figure out your federal and private student loan balance, how to manage your student loan debt, and what to do if you cannot stay on top of your student loans.
Read More →Is Filing for Bankruptcy Bad?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Lawyer John Coble
Updated January 30, 2025
Bankruptcy has gotten a negative reputation over the years. But there are many benefits to filing for bankruptcy that don't get as much attention as the drawbacks. Depending on your situation, filing bankruptcy can sometimes be the best course of action.
Read More →Can You Keep Your Checking Account During Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 30, 2025
Most people who file Chapter 7 bankruptcy can keep their checking account if the money in it is protected by exemptions. This means your account balance is safe, as long as it doesn’t exceed the amount you’re allowed to protect under bankruptcy law.
Read More →What Are the Pros and Cons of a Lease-To-Own Car?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 2025
A lease-to-own (or rent-to-own) program allows borrowers to make installment payments on a vehicle over a period of time determined in the lease. Once all the car payments have been made, the borrower (the lessee) assumes ownership of the vehicle. These arrangements can particularly benefit borrowers who have bad credit and don’t qualify for traditional leases or car loans. That said, these agreements tend to be expensive, so it’s important to understand the terms of the lease-to-own contract before you enter into one.
Read More →8 Effective Strategies To Lower Your Student Loan Payments
Written by the Upsolve Team.
Updated January 30, 2025
If you’re worried about how you’re going to make your student loan payment once the repayment pause ends this summer, it’s good you’re planning ahead and doing some research! You have many options to lower your student loan payment, including: 1. Signing up for an income-driven, graduated, or extended repayment plan 2. Enrolling in autopay 3. Refinancing or consolidating your student loans 4. Applying for deferment or forbearance 5. Requesting a temporary payment decrease or deferral (if you have a private student loan)
Read More →5 Solid Steps for Negotiating With Debt Collectors
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 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 →Partial Unemployment Benefits: Eligibility Requirements & How To Apply
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 2025
If you were working full time before and now only work part time, you may be wondering if you qualify for unemployment benefits. You can still collect partial unemployment benefits if you are working a part time job. Eligibility will depend on your state’s laws, the number of hours you work each week, and how much you’re making. In this article, we will look at how unemployment benefits work for part-time workers and how you can get the largest unemployment benefit payment possible.
Read More →How Can I Raise My Credit Score by 200 Points?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 2025
If you aren’t happy with your current credit score, the good news is that you can increase it. But it won’t happen overnight. Whether you’re looking for a short-term boost or have a long-term goal to raise your score by 200 points, you can do it with some patience and persistence. It also helps to know how your credit score is calculated, so you know the best actions to take to reach your goals. Keep reading to learn how you can give your credit score a big boost by changing how you deal with your credit.
Read More →The Complete Guide To Refinancing Student Loans
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 2025
When you refinance your student loans, you take out a new loan and use it to pay off your existing student loans. There are pros and cons to refinancing: The biggest pro is that you may get a lower interest rate or be able to reduce the amount of your monthly payments. Reducing your interest rate means you pay less over the long run. Lowering your payments each month can help you stay on top of your debt if you’re struggling. If you have federal loans, the biggest drawback to refinancing is that you’ll lose certain benefits like access to student loan forgiveness and economic hardship programs. Regardless of the type of loans you have, you’ll need a good credit score (or a co-signer with a good score) to get approved for a student loan refinance and get a good interest rate.
Read More →Should I Take A Bailout Loan To Stop Foreclosure?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 2025
A foreclosure bailout loan might look like the perfect solution at a glance, but it has downsides, too. Bailout loans, also known as hard money loans, tend to have high interest rates. They may also require the borrower to refinance again within a few years. If you’re considering a bailout loan to stop foreclosure, make sure that you understand your options and their potential impacts on you, your finances, and your family.
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 January 30, 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 →What Is the Standard Repayment Plan for Student Loans?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 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 →How Long Can I Stay in My Home After a Foreclosure Sale?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 2025
In this article, we’ll give you an overview of foreclosure, discuss the before and after of a foreclosure sale, and give you valuable information about foreclosure timelines so you can get a better idea of how long you can stay in your home while planning your eventual move.
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 →Student Loan Garnishments And Hardship
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 2025
If you default on your student loans, you risk having your wages, taxes, and Social Security benefits garnished. Your credit score will also suffer. To avoid a student loan wage garnishment, or to reduce the amount that will be garnished, you need to take action. You can do this even after you’ve defaulted on your student loan. In this article, we’ll help you learn how to manage student loan wage garnishments, so you can avoid adding to your financial troubles.
Read More →Will a Car Repossession Keep You From Getting a Home Loan?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 2025
Repossession is one type of negative event on a credit report that can affect approval for any type of loan, especially a mortgage. While a repossession won’t directly prevent you from getting a mortgage loan, it won’t make it easy. Because everyone’s credit profile is different, it’s hard to predict the impact of a repo on anyone’s home loan application. This article will explain how a repossession can affect your credit history and how it affects getting approved for a mortgage loan.
Read More →Bankruptcy for Senior Citizens
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 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 →What Is My Bankruptcy Discharge Date?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 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 →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 January 30, 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 →5 Smart Strategies To Boost Your Credit Score
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 2025
Your credit rating is an important component of your financial profile. Not only can a credit score determine whether you are approved for a loan or credit, but it can also determine important terms of the loan or new credit. The higher the credit score, the better the terms. A good credit score can save you money by helping you qualify for credit with a higher limit and a lower interest rate. This article will provide some helpful information for building and maintaining your credit score and overall credit profile. We’ll discuss five smart and simple strategies for boosting your credit score.
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 January 30, 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 →Information on My Credit Report Was Removed. Now It’s Back!
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 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 →Principal-Only Payments: Are They a Good Idea?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 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 →California Bankruptcy Exemptions Explained
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 2025
Some states permit filers to choose between a set of federal bankruptcy exemptions and the state exemption system. However, California isn’t one of them. California is called an “opt-out” state, which means federal bankruptcy exemptions are not available to filers in the state. Californians filing bankruptcy have to use California exemption law.
Read More →What Are the Oregon Bankruptcy Exemptions?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 30, 2025
If you’ve lived in Oregon for at least two years when you file bankruptcy, you can choose between the state or federal bankruptcy exemptions. Generally speaking, if you’re filing alone and you own a home, you’ll get great protection using Oregon’s state exemptions. If you don’t own a home, you may benefit more from federal exemptions, which provide a more generous exemption for your car and a wildcard exemption you can use to protect any property not otherwise protected.
Read More →How To Win Against FBCS
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 30, 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 →What Is Non-Exempt Equity?
Written by Curtis Lee, JD. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 30, 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 Is Post-Petition Debt?
Written by Jonathan Petts. Legally reviewed by Ben Jackson
Updated January 30, 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 January 30, 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 →Is Filing for Bankruptcy Worth It?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 30, 2025
Filing bankruptcy gives you immediate protection from your creditors and a financial fresh start by wiping out certain debts like credit card debt, payday loans, and medical debt. If your wages are being garnished or credit card companies and payday lenders are harassing you to collect payments you can't afford to pay, filing bankruptcy may be the best way to get permanent relief. But if most of your debts are non-dischargeable, filing bankruptcy may not be worth it.
Read More →How To Win Against Capio Partners
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 30, 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 →What Is a Co-Debtor and How Does My Bankruptcy Affect Them?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 30, 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 January 30, 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 Presumption of Abuse in Bankruptcy?
Written by Curtis Lee, JD. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 30, 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 →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 →How To Win Against Halsted Financial Services
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 30, 2025
Dealing with debt collectors like Halsted Financial Services requires assertiveness and action. You can effectively defend yourself by understanding your rights, validating the debt, negotiating a settlement, or seeking legal assistance if necessary. You have options when facing debt collection by Halsted Financial Services, and with the right approach, you can navigate this challenging situation successfully. Continue reading to learn how you can take action to help you win by asserting your consumer rights.
Read More →How To Deal With FBCS
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 30, 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 Win Against Pressler, Felt & Warshaw LLP
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 30, 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 Central Portfolio Control
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 30, 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 Deal With Pressler, Felt & Warshaw LLP
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 30, 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 Win Against United Collection Bureau
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 30, 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 Deal With Revco Solutions
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 30, 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 Win Against Resurgent Capital Services
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 30, 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 Deal With MBA Law
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 28, 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 →Can Bankruptcy Help Me Get My Car Back After Repossession?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 28, 2025
If your car was repossessed, filing bankruptcy may help you get it back, but you need to act fast. If the lender has already sold your vehicle at auction, you won't be able to get it back. Even if you can use bankruptcy to help you get your car back, you'll want to carefully weigh your options. If you can't afford to keep making your monthly car payment, it may not make sense to file bankruptcy just to get your car back because you can end up in the same situation again.
Read More →How To Win Against CBE Group
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 28, 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 January 28, 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 Northstar Location Services
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 28, 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 Deal With Aldous & Associates
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 28, 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 →How To Deal With Halsted Financial Services
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 28, 2025
Halsted Financial Services is a debt collection agency with a primary focus on past-due consumer debts, such as personal loans, credit cards, and medical bills. If Halsted Financial Services calls you or sends you letters to collect a debt, ask them to validate the debt. This article explains how to verify a debt and explores your options, such as contesting the debt, negotiating a debt settlement, or ignoring the debt (not advised).
Read More →How To Deal With Northstar Location Services
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 28, 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 RMP Services
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 28, 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 →Can a Judgment Creditor Take My Car?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 24, 2025
When a creditor sues you and wins a court judgment, they gain powerful tools to collect the debt you owe. These tools include garnishing wages, levying bank accounts, or placing a judgment lien on your property — like your home or car. If a lien is placed on your car, it could put your vehicle at risk, depending on its equity and your state’s exemption laws. This article breaks down what happens when a creditor files a lien on your car, your legal rights, and the steps you can take to protect your property.
Read More →How To Win Against Wakefield AND Associates
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 24, 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 Deal With Cavalry SPV I LLC
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 24, 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 January 24, 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 Harris & Harris
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 24, 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 Deal With United Collection Bureau Inc.
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 24, 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 Midland Funding LLC
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 24, 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 →Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13 Bankruptcy: What’s the Difference?
Written by Attorney Andrea Wimmer. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 24, 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 →How To Deal With Harris & Harris
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 24, 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 CCS Offices
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 24, 2025
CCS Offices is a debt collector that focuses on consumer debts, including unpaid healthcare invoices and credit card bills. If CCS Offices contacts you, don’t panic. Given how the debt collection business works, there could be a mistake or error. The first thing you should do is have CCS Offices validate the debt. If they do, you can decide to dispute the debt, negotiate a debt settlement, or do nothing. Read on to learn more about these options and what they mean for you.
Read More →How To Deal With Radius Global Solutions
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 24, 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 DCM Services
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 24, 2025
DCM Services is a third-party debt collection agency that focuses on estate debt. They go after unpaid bills of people who have died by contacting their relatives. If DCM Services is contacting you, refrain from giving them any information until they validate the debt. Initially, they may be reaching out to identify the personal representative of the estate. Since DCM Services purchases debts from original creditors and lenders, they often have incorrect or incomplete information. If you think you rightfully owe DCM Services and are unable to pay, you should consider hiring a lawyer. This form of debt collection, especially with medical bills of the deceased, is a legally gray area, so it’s advisable to get professional help.
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 →Your Rights After Your Lender Transfers Your Home Loan
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 15, 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 Debt Settlement?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Paige Hooper
Updated January 14, 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 Debt Settlement?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Paige Hooper
Updated January 14, 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 →How Long Does a Credit Dispute Take?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 14, 2025
If you find an error on your credit report you can have it removed by disputing it. You must file a dispute with the credit bureau that reported the inaccurate information. The credit bureau has 30-45 days to investigate the dispute and give a response. But the total timeline of the dispute may be longer. In this article, we’ll talk more about what factors affect this timeline.
Read More →How Much Does Credit Repair Cost?
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 14, 2025
While a credit repair service cannot do anything that you can’t do yourself, it may be more convenient for you to enlist their help. Just remember that the cost of credit repair varies depending on the borrower’s circumstances, what type of debt they have, and what blemishes they have on their credit report. Read more to learn how to repair your credit yourself, what the benefits might be of hiring a credit repair service, and how to find a reputable one if that is the route you end up taking.
Read More →California Debt Collection Laws
Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 14, 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 →