Debt Collectors and Consumer Rights

Your rights as a consumer protect you from aggressive debt collectors and unfair or deceptive practices.

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Debt Collectors and Consumer Rights

All consumers have certain rights, even if they're in debt. Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, the Fair Credit Reporting Act, and other laws, you can fight unfair or misleading practices by creditors, debt collectors and others.

This page is your hub for learning about your consumer rights.

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How the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act Protects You

Written by Attorney Alexander Hernandez. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 7, 2025

The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) is a federal law that protects consumers from third-party debt collectors and collection agencies. The FDCPA's main purpose is to protect consumers from abusive and deceptive practices used by debt collectors. The federal law sets limits when and how collectors can contact you, prohibits harassment and false representations, and gives consumers the right to dispute debts. If debt collectors violate of the FDCPA, you can take legal action or report them to various federal agencies.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 22, 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.

Written by Mae Koppes. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 18, 2025

Car repossession happens when a lender takes back a vehicle after missed loan payments. In many states, they can do this without warning or a court order. The lender will usually sell the car, and if the sale price doesn’t cover what you owe, you may still have to pay the difference. You have rights during repossession, including the ability to retrieve personal belongings and protections against wrongful actions. If you're at risk, options like negotiating with your lender, refinancing, or filing for bankruptcy may help you keep your car.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 13, 2025

When you’re trying to figure out the best debt relief option, first consider how much debt you have, whether you want to call in outside help or support, how quickly you’re hoping to repay the debt, and how important your credit score is to you right now. You have several debt-relief strategies available to you, and each has its pros and cons.

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.

Written by Jonathan Petts. Legally reviewed by Ben Jackson
Updated May 22, 2025

A debt collection attorney is a type of attorney who specializes in debt collection. They can represent either creditors or borrowers, so it is smart to find a debt collection attorney who specializes in a practice area specific to your type of case. While a debt collection attorney cannot make your debt disappear, they can help you navigate the debt collection process and protect your legal rights. Keep in mind, though, that hiring a lawyer will be an additional cost to you.

Written by Jonathan Petts. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 15, 2025

Debt consolidation does not erase debt, but it can be helpful in reducing your interest rate on debt you owe.

Written by Attorney Jenni Klock Morel. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 8, 2025

There are many debt-relief programs and resources for veterans and active-duty service members alike. Some focus on helping military personnel with homeownership while others focus on managing your finances and debts. It’s especially important for active-duty military members to keep their finances in order. This will help you get or maintain security clearances. This article covers the most common debt relief programs and financial resources for veterans and active-duty service members.

Written by Jonathan Petts. Legally reviewed by Ben Jackson
Updated April 22, 2025

Being judgment proof means that you do not have anything for a creditor to collect if they sue you and win. As you can imagine, this means that they are not likely to sue you. It does not mean that they can't sue you, just that they probably won't be able to collect if they do decide to take you to court.

Written by Jonathan Petts. Legally reviewed by Ben Jackson
Updated May 22, 2025

If you receive a summons and complaint from a debt collector or creditor, it means you’re being sued for unpaid debt. It’s important to respond to (or answer) the lawsuit. You do this by filing official paperwork with the court. Be sure to address every point in the complaint, raise any defenses you have, and file the paperwork within the time frame provided. Debt collectors are counting on you not to answer the lawsuit so that they can win by default. Don’t be intimidated! Take control and learn how to file an answer by reading this guide. You do not need an attorney to answer a debt collection lawsuit successfully.

Written by Attorney Andrea Wimmer. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 17, 2025

Bankruptcy is not right for everyone or every situation. If you're not sure whether bankruptcy is right for you, knowing what alternatives are available to give you some relief from your debts is a critical part of making the right decision for you and your family. Let's take a look at some of the most common bankruptcy alternatives.

Written by Mae Koppes. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated July 1, 2025

A credit score is a three-digit number that reflects how you’ve used credit in the past, based on the data in your credit report. It's calculated using factors like your payment history, credit usage, account age, and recent credit activity. Credit scores can drop after missed payments or bankruptcy, but they’re not permanent. By understanding how scores work and taking small steps — like making on-time payments, lowering balances, and reviewing your credit reports — you can start rebuilding with a clear path forward.

Written by Attorney Tina Tran. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 21, 2025

Your credit report has a lot of power over your daily life — whether that's when you go to get a new car or are applying for an apartment. In addition to using credit responsibly, keeping an eye on your credit report is one of the most valuable things you can do to make sure your financial house is as stable as possible. There are three ways to request a copy of your free credit report.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Paige Hooper
Updated May 8, 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.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Paige Hooper
Updated May 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.

Written by Attorney Tina Tran. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 15, 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.

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.

Written by Attorney Amelia Niemi. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 30, 2025

Yes, you may still owe money after your car is repossessed. If the lender repossesses your car and sells it at auction for less than the amount you owe on your loan, you’ll be responsible for paying the remaining amount, called a deficiency balance. This can include additional fees like towing, storage, and auction costs. While repossession doesn’t erase your debt, options like negotiating with your lender or filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy can help you manage or eliminate the remaining balance.

Written by Attorney Amelia Niemi. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 7, 2025

Most of us have a pile of “to-dos” that never seem to be done. For many people, this includes a stack of bills and debts that just keep getting higher. As much as you’d love to pay off that medical debt, there’s never quite enough to go around on payday. Having this debt hang over your head can be really stressful. A lot of people sit up at night, worrying about what will happen next to their debt. Read more to find out what debt collectors can – and can’t – do, how they might legally be able to claim that money, and how this might affect your credit history.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 22, 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.

Written by Attorney Tina Tran. Legally reviewed by Attorney Paige Hooper
Updated May 22, 2025

Yes, a credit card company can sue you if you stop paying your bills. Typically, credit card companies will contact you several times before escalating the matter to legal action or charging off the debt to a debt collection agency. Though there’s no set timeline, you can expect legal action after six months of nonpayment. While there are no guarantees, you’re less likely to be sued if you owe less than $2,000.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 8, 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.

Written by Attorney Kassandra Kuehl. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 30, 2025

In short, yes, in the majority of states, employers can deny you employment if you have bad credit. Some states and cities have passed laws that prohibit the practice, though there are some exceptions, such as for jobs in the financial sector. Employers must get your written consent before they run a credit check as part of the hiring process. Having certain negative items on your credit report may not hurt your chances for all jobs. If you’re looking for a job and have bad credit, there are steps you can take to improve your chances of landing your dream job.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated June 17, 2025

This article will explain how to get your credit report and what types of information — positive and negative — will appear on your report. We'll also talk about how to fix your credit report when misinformation appears on your credit history.

Written by Attorney Karra Kingston. Legally reviewed by Attorney Paige Hooper
Updated May 8, 2025

Yes, debt collectors can take you to court for unpaid debt. But this won’t be their first move. Debt collection agencies will first call you and send notices in the mail to try to collect on unpaid debt. It’s common for debt collectors to make several attempts over a period of many months to collect a debt before they decide to sue you.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 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.

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.

Written by Your Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Paige Hooper
Updated May 22, 2025

If you don’t make your credit card payments, the credit card company or collection agency will try to collect on the debt, but they can also bring a credit card lawsuit. If you get sued for credit card debt, it’s important to answer (reply to) the lawsuit. You should also ask the collection agency to verify the debt to ensure that you actually owe it and that they have the correct details about the debt amount. When you file your answer, you’ll include your defenses about why the debt collector shouldn’t win the case.

Written by Mae Koppes. Legally reviewed by Attorney Paige Hooper
Updated May 8, 2025

If you’re contacted about a debt you don’t owe, you can dispute it with the creditor or debt collector. Often, these consumer debts are also incorrectly reported to the three major credit bureaus, so you’ll want to check your credit report, too. You can send a dispute letter to the credit bureaus asking them to remove incorrect information. Here are the four basic steps to dispute a debt you don’t owe: 1. Validate the debt. 2. Send a dispute letter (or the tear-off portion of the debt validation letter, which allows you to easily start the dispute process). 3. Check your credit report, and send a credit dispute letter or notices of dispute to any reporting agency with inaccurate information. 4. Follow up if/as needed until the matter is resolved.

Written by Mae Koppes. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated January 24, 2025

If your car is repossessed with your personal belongings inside, you have the legal right to retrieve your items. Repo companies cannot keep or sell your personal property, and they generally can’t charge you a fee to collect your belongings unless you delay for an extended period. After repossession, the lender will send you a notice with details on how to retrieve your car and personal items.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 8, 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.

Written by Attorney Serena Siew. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 22, 2025

Repossession fees are what creditors pay to repossess your car. Towing, storage, and auction fees are common examples. If you’re delinquent on your car loan and your car is repossessed, those fees are passed on to you. Keep reading to find out more about repossession and what repossession fees mean for you.

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.

Written by Jonathan Petts. Legally reviewed by Ben Jackson
Updated May 22, 2025

In Arizona, most debt collectors must follow regulations set out in state and federal law. These laws were designed to increase transparency and fairness in the debt collection process. Arizona state law mirrors the many protections set out in the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), which prohibits third-party debt collectors from harassing or deceiving you. If debt collectors violate the law, you can report them and sometimes even sue them for damages. The statute of limitations for credit card debt in Arizona is three years. It’s six years for medical debt.

Written by Mae Koppes. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 29, 2025

Foreclosure is the legal process that allows lenders to take ownership of a home when a borrower falls behind on mortgage payments. The process varies by state but is either judicial (requiring court approval) or nonjudicial (allowing lenders to proceed without a lawsuit). Foreclosure can damage your credit, lead to eviction, and leave you responsible for any remaining debt if the home sells for less than what you owe. However, homeowners have rights, including receiving proper notice and staying in the home until foreclosure is finalized. Options like loan modifications, repayment plans, or even filing bankruptcy may help stop or delay foreclosure. This comprehensive guide explains how foreclosure works, what rights homeowners have, and the options available to prevent or navigate the process.

Written by Natasha Wiebusch, J.D.. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 30, 2025

Unlike other types of lawsuits, not everyone has a right to appeal a small claims case. This article will explore how small claims appeals differ by state. It is important to understand how your state deals with small claims appeals specifically, as rules vary significantly from state to state.

Written by Mae Koppes. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 17, 2025

A second mortgage is a loan that lets you borrow against your home’s equity, but it comes with risks — especially if you’re struggling to make payments. If you default on your second mortgage, the lender can take legal action, including foreclosure, though this isn’t common if your home is worth less than what you owe. If foreclosure doesn’t cover your second mortgage balance, the lender may sue you for the remaining debt. If you’re facing foreclosure or legal action, options like loan modification, settlement, or bankruptcy may help. This guide explains what happens with second mortgages in foreclosure and what you can do to protect yourself.

Written by Mae Koppes. Legally reviewed by Attorney Paige Hooper
Updated May 7, 2025

Statutes of limitations are state laws that limit the time a debt collector has to bring a lawsuit. After the statute of limitations has passed, debt collectors can still sue you, but the statute of limitations is a strong defense in a debt collection lawsuit. The length of these laws can vary tremendously by state and by the type of contract you made for the debt (oral, written, etc.).

Written by Attorney Paige Hooper.
Updated May 22, 2025

If you're struggling to keep up with the minimum payments or paying everything you can and not making a dent in the balances that you owe, there are several debt relief options available to help you eliminate your debt and move forward with your life. Read this article to learn the different types of debt relief available and how they work, the benefits and risks associated with each option, and which debt relief solution(s), if any, may be a good fit for your situation.

Written by Attorney Thomas J. Pearson. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 28, 2025

Repossession happens when a lender takes back a car because the borrower has fallen behind on payments. Repo agents use personal details, social media, and tools like GPS trackers and license plate scanners to find vehicles. They can legally repossess cars from public spaces but cannot enter locked or gated private property. After repossession, the lender typically sells the car, and you may still owe a deficiency balance if the sale doesn’t cover the remaining loan and fees.

Written by Natasha Wiebusch, J.D.. Legally reviewed by Attorney Paige Hooper
Updated April 29, 2025

The FDCPA is a federal law that protects debtors by preventing third-party debt collectors from engaging in harassment or unfair activities while trying to collect money. Here’s a list of the six most common violations of the FDCPA: - Attempting to collect debts you don’t owe - Sending written notifications with insufficient information about the debt - Taking or threatening to take legal action or other negative actions - Making false statements or misrepresenting themselves or the debt - Engaging in harassment (usually with repeated calls) or using abusive language - Threatening to contact a third party about your debt (such as a friend, family member, or employer) or to otherwise improperly share information about your debt publicly

Written by Attorney Andrea Wimmer.
Updated May 22, 2025

Most debt collection suits in the U.S. end in default judgments. That’s a judgment entered against the alleged debtor because they either didn’t file an answer to the complaint or didn’t show up in court. This is bad news, partly because many of those cases could have been won. If you’re sued by a creditor, debt collector, or debt buyer, the worst thing you can usually do is ignore the lawsuit. This article will provide guidance on how to deal with a debt collection lawsuit.

Written by Mae Koppes. Legally reviewed by Attorney Paige Hooper
Updated May 8, 2025

If someone calls you about a debt and doesn’t identify themselves, asks for payment via wire transfer, demands personal information, or calls at odd hours, these are red flags that indicate the caller is a scammer. You can protect yourself by keeping a record of all communication, reporting them, and notifying your real creditor.

Written by Mae Koppes. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 23, 2025

If a debt collector threatens to sue you, first verify that the debt is real and not past the statute of limitations. If the debt is valid and the threat seems serious, try negotiating a settlement or payment plan to avoid a lawsuit. Federal law protects you from false threats and harassment, and you can report collectors who violate your rights.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 1, 2025

Being in debt is stressful, but did you know you have several options to address your debt and find financial security? The most common debt relief options are: 1. Debt management plans (DMPs), which are facilitated by nonprofit credit counselors for a small fee 2. Debt consolidation, which includes DMPs but can also be done by taking out a personal loan or doing a credit card balance transfer to a credit card offering 0% APR for a period of time 3. Debt settlement, which is where you negotiate a discount on your debt in collections 4. Bankruptcy, which is where you file paperwork with a court to get a financial fresh start by discharing credit card debt, medical bills, utility bills, personal loans, and payday loans

Written by Natasha Wiebusch, J.D.. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 22, 2025

If you’re a consumer in Georgia, the FDCPA is your best line of defense against unfair debt collectors, but it’s not the only law that can help. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about what debt collectors in Georgia can and cannot legally do when trying to collect money.

Written by Jonathan Petts. Legally reviewed by Ben Jackson
Updated April 29, 2025

If you have a debt that gets sent to collections, you may be confused about who you owe. To find out which collection agency you owe, you can contact the original creditor or check your credit report. If a collection agency has been in contact with you, ask them to verify the debt. Compare this information with the information on your credit report and your personal financial records so you don’t pay more than you owe or get scammed.

Written by Attorney Kimberly Berson.
Updated May 12, 2025

Debt collection isn’t without limits. Federal laws and state laws protect consumers from abusive debt collection practices. Massachusetts debt collection laws offer significant protections to Massachusetts residents from the deceptive acts of debt collectors. This article outlines the rights of Massachusetts residents who are dealing with debt collectors.

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.

Written by Attorney Kimberly Berson.
Updated April 21, 2025

Debt collectors are allowed to collect, but they can’t do whatever they want to get you to pay. The federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act protects you against unfair harassment from debt collectors. Maryland state law provides you with even more safeguards. Maryland regulates the conduct of anyone who is seeking to collect a debt, not just those who are in the business of debt collecting. Read more to learn how the Maryland Consumer Debt Collection Act can protect you from the abusive behaviors of debt collectors.

Written by Mae Koppes. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 30, 2025

Debt collectors can call between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. any day of the week, including Sundays, unless you tell them not to. Under federal law, you have the right to stop Sunday calls if they’re inconvenient. If a debt collector ignores your request, you can report them to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Debt collectors also can’t call repeatedly to harass you and can’t contact you at work if you’ve told them not to. If collection calls are becoming overwhelming, you can send a cease and desist letter to stop them.

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.

Written by Natasha Wiebusch, J.D.. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 17, 2025

Under the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), third-party debt collectors are prohibited from harassment, abuse, and other unfair or abusive practices toward debtors. If a debt collector is violating the FDCPA in their attempts to collect money from you, you have the right to sue them. In this article, we explain how to sue an abusive debt collector, what an FDCPA lawsuit can and can’t help you with, and what other options you have to stop communication from collectors.

Written by Curtis Lee, JD. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 17, 2025

A debt validation letter is a letter that includes basic information about a debt someone is trying to collect from you. If a debt collector is trying to collect an unpaid debt, they’re required by law to send you a debt validation letter before contacting you or within five days of their first contact with you.

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.

Written by Natasha Wiebusch, J.D.. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated June 18, 2025

A 609 letter is a tool that helps you request information about items on your credit report and address errors. It’s named after Section 609 of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), which allows consumers to access all data used to calculate their credit score. While 609 letters can’t remove verified or accurate debts, they can help uncover documentation issues that might support a formal dispute. The process requires persistence, as credit bureaus are obligated to respond to your request within 30–45 days but may not always provide adequate information on the first try. By drafting a clear 609 letter and following up as needed, you can take an important step toward repairing your credit and improving your financial health.

Written by Attorney Eric Hansen. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 29, 2025

Debt collection agencies can contact family members or your place of work, but they have to be careful about what they ask about. They can't discuss your debt with any third parties. They’re really only supposed to call third parties if they can’t reach you or don’t have your contact information. These rights are spelled out under the Federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), which also protects you from debt collector harassment.

Written by Attorney Paige Hooper. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated June 18, 2025

In many cases, self-reporting your account information and payment activity to the major credit bureaus is a smart way to bulk up your credit report and improve your credit score. Self-reporting payments, such as rent and utilities, benefits your credit by adding on-time payments that wouldn’t ordinarily appear on your credit report. In this article, you’ll learn what self-reporting is, how it works, what you can report, and how to decide whether self-reporting is a good option for you.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 6, 2025

One way you can get debt relief is through debt settlement. A good debt settlement attorney can help you settle your debts. They should also be able to provide advice on other debt-relief options like debt consolidation, debt management, and bankruptcy. A debt settlement lawyer may be able to help you get a better overall settlement deal. Perhaps most importantly, they can help you avoid the stress of communicating with aggressive debt collectors. This article will explain debt settlement and the benefits of hiring a debt settlement attorney.

Written by Attorney Tori Bramble.
Updated May 8, 2025

Collection agencies are required to follow federal and state laws when trying to collect a debt from you. Fortunately, all states are under the protection of the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). The FDCPA is a debt collection law that protects you from intrusive and predatory collection agency practices such as calling you late at night, cursing at you, and trying to collect a debt you don’t owe. Some states, including Colorado, also have laws that provide additional protections for consumers from debt collectors. Here we’ll discuss the consumer protections available to Colorado residents under the Colorado Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (CFDCPA).

Written by Mark P. Cussen, CMFC. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 5, 2025

If you take out a loan to buy a vehicle and you become unable to make the payments, then you run the risk of having your vehicle repossessed. Vehicle repossession laws are largely the same in all states, but some details governing borrowers’ and lenders’ rights differ from one state to another. Here we will examine Ohio’s laws and what you need to know if you live in Ohio and can’t make your payment or have already experienced vehicle repossession.

Written by Natasha Wiebusch, J.D.. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 22, 2025

Both debt consolidation and debt settlement can help relieve the pressures of overwhelming debt, but they have different functions. Debt settlement reduces total debt by allowing a debtor to pay off a debt account for less than the total balance. Debt consolidation, on the other hand, reduces the number of lenders but doesn’t reduce the total amount of debt. Each option has its pros and cons. If you’re considering using either of them, you’ll want to know what those pros and cons are.

Written by Curtis Lee, JD.
Updated May 15, 2025

If you have mostly credit card debt (or other unsecured debts), you can afford to make regular payments, and you're looking to rebuild your credit, a debt management plan might be the way to go. If you have unsecured debts that are already in collections, need a quicker solution, and are able to make a lump-sum payment, debt settlement could be a good option. Keep in mind: Every person’s situation is different, and it’s important to understand the positive and negative consequences of the debt relief option you ultimately choose.

Written by Curtis Lee, JD.
Updated April 17, 2025

Debt consolidation allows you to simplify your debt repayment by combining multiple debts with a consolidation loan or debt management plan. This way you only have to make one monthly payment on the consolidated debt. Both consolidation options allow you to lower your interest rate and monthly payment, which also helps make your debt more manageable. This can help you make on-time payment and avoid missing payments.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated June 18, 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.

Written by Mae Koppes. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated July 15, 2025

A 300 credit score is the lowest possible score under both FICO and VantageScore, but it’s extremely rare. Most people with very low scores fall somewhere in the subprime or deep subprime range, which can make borrowing more difficult and expensive. Your credit score reflects your payment history, credit use, and other financial habits — and while negative marks can hurt, they fade with time. The good news is that no matter where your score is now, there are clear steps you can take to improve it.

Written by Mae Koppes. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated March 13, 2025

Homeowners insurance protects your home, belongings, and finances from unexpected disasters like fires, storms, or theft. While having it is not required by law, most mortgage lenders make having it a condition of your loan. Without it, you could be stuck paying out of pocket for major repairs — or even risk losing your home if your lender steps in with an expensive force-placed policy. This article breaks down why homeowners insurance matters, what it covers, and how to choose the right amount of protection for your home.

Written by Mae Koppes. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated March 25, 2025

A car lien is a legal claim a lender has on a vehicle until the loan is fully paid off. If you finance a car, the lender places a lien on the title, giving them the right to repossess the car if you don’t make payments. The lien stays on the title until the lender releases it, which typically happens after the final loan payment. You can check for a lien by reviewing the title, getting a vehicle history report, or searching the DMV database. If you’re buying or selling a car with a lien, you’ll need to take extra steps to ensure the lien is properly removed before transferring ownership.

Written by Mae Koppes. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 23, 2025

If a creditor or debt collector sues you for an unpaid debt and they win, they may be able to get a court order for a bank levy. This allows them to take funds you owe directly from your bank account. Most creditors will have to jump through some legal hoops to do this, but some government agencies can levy your bank account without first getting a court order.

Written by Attorney Todd Carney. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 8, 2025

A bank levy is a legal move that allows creditors to collect an unpaid debt by taking money directly from a borrower’s bank account. Creditors can continue to take money from your account until your debt is paid off. While your account can be levied more than once, you have options and rights., This article will educate you on how to be prepared for a levy and what your rights are.

Written by Attorney Todd Carney. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 15, 2025

Many people wonder if the government can look inside their bank accounts, especially when applying for Social Security benefits. The short answer is yes, but only in certain situations. If you’re part of the Supplemental Security Income program, the Social Security Administration has the legal authority to review your financial information to ensure you meet eligibility requirements. This article will explain why and how the SSA conducts these reviews, what counts toward SSI eligibility limits, and how you can safeguard your benefits.

Written by Chiara King. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 8, 2025

Car title loans offer quick cash by using your car as collateral, but their high interest rates and short repayment terms often lead to financial strain and even car repossession. If you’re struggling with a title loan, there are several ways to get out of it without losing your car, including paying off the loan with creative strategies, refinancing with a personal or payday alternative loan, or negotiating new terms with the lender. You can also seek guidance from an accredited credit counselor or explore bankruptcy as a potential solution. Chapter 7 bankruptcy may discharge the loan but often requires giving up the car, while Chapter 13 can help you keep your vehicle by reorganizing payments. Each option has pros and cons, so understanding your rights and exploring all alternatives can help you make the best decision for your situation.

Written by Chiara King. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 15, 2025

When a homeowner falls behind on mortgage payments, the lender can foreclose on the property and sell it to recover the loan balance. If the property sells for more than what is owed, the homeowner/borrower may be entitled to claim the extra money, known as foreclosure surplus funds, after other debts and liens are paid. However, if the sale doesn’t cover the debt, the lender may pursue the borrower for the remaining balance in some states. In the case of a surplus, borrowers should act quickly to claim the funds, as deadlines apply, and they may need to file paperwork, provide proof of ownership, or attend a hearing to recover what they’re owed.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated May 8, 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.

Written by Attorney Todd Carney.
Updated April 18, 2025

Borrowers cannot generally change their mortgage loan servicers unless they refinance. Even then, servicers may change at any time without a borrower's permission. It is important for homeowners to know their rights when it comes to dealing with mortgage servicers.

Written by Mae Koppes. Legally reviewed by Attorney Paige Hooper
Updated May 8, 2025

You can’t be arrested or go to jail just for not paying consumer debts like credit cards or medical bills. But in some cases, debt-related issues can lead to arrest. If a creditor sues you and the court orders you to take action — like appearing for a debtor examination — and you ignore the order, you could be arrested for contempt of court. You can also face jail time for certain debts, like unpaid child support or tax fraud. But in most cases, courts use jail as a last resort. The best way to avoid arrest is to comply with any court orders and know your rights when dealing with creditors and debt collectors.

Written by Mae Koppes. Legally reviewed by Attorney Paige Hooper
Updated May 8, 2025

Debt collectors can call you at work unless and until you tell them to stop calling. Under federal law, debt collectors and creditors are prohibited from contacting borrowers at work once they have reason to know that a borrower's employer doesn't permit these kinds of calls. The law does allow for other collection tactics, so it is important to know your rights concerning debt collection communications.

Written by Lawyer John Coble. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 24, 2025

In the past, if you had bad credit, you could only open subpar second-chance checking accounts. They often had high fees and few benefits or good features. Now, a lot of online banks offer checking accounts with great features even if you have bad credit. This article looks at eight great options.

Written by Attorney Eric Hansen. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 30, 2025

In the Digital Age, it isn't usually very hard for debt collectors to track down the whereabouts of borrowers who have fallen behind on their debts. From DMV and utility company records to social media profiles and credit bureau feedback, debt collectors can almost always access information that helps them to contact borrowers whose debt payments are delinquent.

Written by Mae Koppes. Legally reviewed by Attorney Paige Hooper
Updated May 1, 2025

A cease and desist letter is a formal written request that you send a debt collector telling them to stop contacting you about a debt. Once the debt collector receives a cease and desist letter, they must stop further contact save for one final call to tell you what actions they intend to take. While sending a cease and desist letter is a good way to stop debt collectors from harassing you, it doesn’t make your debt disappear. If the debt is valid, the debt collector may choose to take legal action to recover the debt.

Written by Mae Koppes. Legally reviewed by Attorney Andrea Wimmer
Updated April 22, 2025

It's usually most effective to negotiate a debt settlement over the phone with the debt collector. Once you negotiate a settlement, it's important to get the agreement in writing.

Written by Attorney Tori Bramble. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 1, 2025

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers programs to help homeowners with FHA-insured mortgages who are struggling to make their payments. Whether you’re facing financial challenges due to job loss or other difficulties, these programs can help you avoid foreclosure and stay in your home. This article explains how HUD’s mortgage relief options, like loan modifications and partial claims, work and how you can qualify for assistance.

Written by Attorney Aan Malahia Chaudhry. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 8, 2025

If you don’t pay a debt, it can be sent to collections. If you continue not to pay, you’ll hurt your credit score and you risk losing your property or having your wages or bank account garnished. If you aren’t paying because you don’t have the money, you can look into filing Chapter 7 bankruptcy, consolidating your debt, or going to debt counseling to make a plan to address the debt and avoid further stress.

Written by Attorney Tori Bramble. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 29, 2025

If a court judgment has been entered against you, it’s important to understand what this means and what to do next. A judgment gives creditors the ability to collect what you owe using tools like wage garnishment, bank levies, or property liens. Acting quickly can help you protect your income and property, as state exemption laws may allow you to shield certain assets. This article explains how judgments work, the collection methods creditors use, and how to minimize the impact on your finances.

Written by Mae Koppes. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 28, 2025

The statute of limitations on debt in New York state is three years. This is the amount of time that a creditor or debt collector has to sue borrowers to collect debts. After three years pass without activity on the account, a creditor or debt collector may still try to sue you for a debt, but you can use the statute of limitations as a defense in the lawsuit.

Written by Lawyer John Coble. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 30, 2025

The New York Small Claims Court is a special part of the court system. The legal process in small claims courts is simplified and informal so that anyone can access it without needing to hire a lawyer. Only individuals can use small claims courts in New York, and you can only use the court to sue for money. The amount of the claim you can bring ranges from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on where you live in the state.

Written by Lawyer John Coble. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 28, 2025

If a creditor gets a court judgment against you, it can’t enforce it until it’s entered by the court clerk. If you don’t pay the judgment voluntarily, the judgment creditor has several debt collection options at its disposal. In addition to options like wage or bank account garnishment, the creditor could contact an enforcement officer for assistance.

Written by Lawyer John Coble. Legally reviewed by Attorney Paige Hooper
Updated May 6, 2025

New York state's Consumer Credit Fairness Act (CCFA), reduced the statute of limitations for consumer debts from six years to three years. It also added notification requirements for creditors and debt collectors that sue borrowers. Under the CCFA, the statute of limitations can’t be restarted if a borrower makes a payment or acknowledges a debt. Finally, under the CCFA, debt collectors must be able to prove they own the debt when they sue to collect on it.

Written by Curtis Lee, JD. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 21, 2025

If you get sued and you don’t respond to the lawsuit’s complaint and summons, the court can enter a default judgment. But you can have this judgment vacated or removed. To do so, you need to have a reasonable excuse for not appearing in court and a defense to the allegations against you. You also have grounds to vacate if the person suing you didn’t properly serve the required documents. You can speed up the process by using an Order to Show Cause form.

Written by Curtis Lee, JD. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 30, 2025

If a creditor wins a court judgment against you, you’ll have to pay the money judgment amount plus any interest the court orders. Pre-judgment interest accrues on the debt owed before the court’s decision, while post-judgment interest accrues on the money judgment after it’s entered. In New York state, the interest accrual rate for debt collection cases is 2% annually.

Written by Curtis Lee, JD.
Updated July 7, 2023

Everyone who lives in the U.S. is protected from unfair debt collection practices under the Federal Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). States like New York have enacted state laws to address unfair debt collection practices as well. New York’s Fair Debt Collection Practices Act is similar to the FDCPA in the ways it limits when and how debt collectors can communicate with consumers. Unlike the federal law, the state law doesn’t allow consumers to directly sue those who violate the state law. They must file a complaint with the state attorney general who will pursue legal action.

Written by Curtis Lee, JD. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 8, 2025

If you get sued by a creditor looking to collect a debt, you’ll be notified of the lawsuit with a summons and complaint. In New York, you have 20 or 30 days to respond to (answer) the debt collection lawsuit. The time frame depends on how you were served notice of the lawsuit. In your response (answer) you’ll want to address each issue listed in the complaint and assert your affirmative defenses and counterclaims. Then, file your answer with the court and send the plaintiff a copy. This article walks you through the process and potential defenses.

Written by Curtis Lee, JD. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 22, 2025

Most creditors must get a court order to garnish your wages if you live in New York. Two exceptions are garnishments for public debts (like past-due taxes and family debts (like child support). The law limits how much of your weekly earnings a creditor can take through wage garnishment. These limits vary based on the minimum wage where you live and the type of debt you owe. Finally, an employer can’t fire you because you have a wage garnishment order against you.

Written by Attorney Jenni Klock Morel. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 21, 2025

If you have an unpaid debt, a creditor can sue you to get a judgment against you. This allows them to garnish your wages, levy your bank account, or file a judgment lien against your home or car. Judgments and judgment liens in New York are very powerful. Money judgments can be enforced for up to 20 years in New York.

Written by Attorney Paige Hooper. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 8, 2025

Most creditors must get a court order to garnish your wages if you live in New York. Two exceptions are garnishments for public debts — like past-due taxes — and family debts, like child support. The law limits how much of your weekly earnings a creditor can take through wage garnishment. These limits vary based on the minimum wage where you live. Finally, an employer can’t fire you because you have a wage garnishment order against you.

Written by Mae Koppes. Legally reviewed by Attorney Paige Hooper
Updated May 8, 2025

A debt verification letter is correspondence you can send to a debt collector to get more information about a debt or to start the dispute process. If you’re contacted by a debt collector and something doesn’t seem right about the collection agency or the debt itself, you can use a debt verification letter to learn more about the agency and the debt. This can help you dispute debts you don’t actually owe or identify potential debt collection scams.

Written by Ben Jackson. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 22, 2025

If a court issued a default judgment against you, you may be able to vacate (cancel) it by filing a motion to vacate. To succeed, you’ll need a valid reason for not responding to the lawsuit, like not being properly notified or dealing with an emergency. Some courts also require you to have a defense against the original claim. If the court approves your motion, the case reopens, and the judge will review the lawsuit instead of automatically ruling against you.

Written by Attorney Tina Tran. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 23, 2025

In Pennsylvania, if a debt collection lawsuit has been filed against you, the first thing you need to do is file a Notice of Intention to Defend. You can do this by either calling your court or going in person. If you disagree with the claims against you, you can explain your defenses in your notice. Then, follow any instructions from the court you receive via court notices or ask the court clerk about next steps.

Written by Jonathan Petts. Legally reviewed by Ben Jackson
Updated April 23, 2025

Answering a debt lawsuit is easier than you might think! You simply need to fill out an official court answer form, tell the court why you disagree with the lawsuit, and file the paperwork with the court. Then, you have to send a copy of your answer form to the person suing you. Finally, wait to get notice from the court about next steps. If you contest the lawsuit, the court will schedule a hearing date to hear both sides of the story.

Written by Jonathan Petts.
Updated May 22, 2025

If you live in Alabama, the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) is your strongest protection against bad behavior by third-party debt collectors. This law prohibits harassment, deception, and other unfair practices during the debt collection process. The statute of limitations for credit card and medical debt is three years in Alabama.

Written by Attorney Tina Tran. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 22, 2025

South Carolinians are protected by the state’s Consumer Protection Code, whose rules apply to both original creditors and third-party debt collection agencies. The CPC prohibits debt collectors from harassing you, deceiving you, or engaging in unfair practices when trying to collect on a debt from you. It also gives consumers the right to sue anyone who violates this law for damages or an injunction to stop or reverse the collection activity. The statute of limitations for credit card debt is three years in South Carolina.

Written by Attorney Tina Tran. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 23, 2025

If you’re sued for a debt in Oregon, you’ll receive an official notice from the court. If you’re sued in small claims court, you need to respond to the notice and tell the court if you want a hearing or jury trial. If you’re sued in regular circuit court, you need to respond with an answer form that includes any affirmative defenses you may have. After responding in either situation, you must show up to required court appearances, which could be a hearing, mediation, or arbitration, depending on your case.

Written by Jonathan Petts. Legally reviewed by Ben Jackson
Updated April 23, 2025

If you get a summons and petition informing you that you’ve been sued for a debt in Missouri, you need to respond by following the court instructions on the summons form. This often means: 1. Drafting an answer form. 2. Addressing each of the debt collector’s claims against you. 3. Listing your defenses and affirmative defenses. 4. Filing your answer form with the court and serving a copy on the person suing you. You have 30 days to respond to a debt collection lawsuit in Missouri, but if your hearing date is before 30 days from the date on the summons, you might need to respond before your hearing date.

Written by Mae Koppes. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 22, 2025

Missouri residents are best protected against debt collector misconduct by the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). The FDCPA protects consumers against debt collector harassment, deception, and other unfair practices. In Missouri, the statute of limitations for open accounts — which often includes credit card debt — is five years. The statute of limitations for debts backed by written contracts is 10 years. This often includes medical bills.

Written by Attorney Tina Tran. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 22, 2025

If you live in Kentucky, your main line of defense against debt collectors will be the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). This federal law regulates third-party debt collectors and aims to prevent harassment, deception, and other unfair practices in the debt collection process. It also outlines certain things debt collectors are required to do, such as provide you with certain information about your debt.

Written by Attorney Tina Tran. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 23, 2025

Responding to a debt lawsuit in Arizona is easier than most people realize. You respond by filling out a court-provided answer form, filing it with the court, and delivering a copy to the person suing you. The answer form is your opportunity to admit, deny, or say you don’t know about the claims against you. These claims are written out in the complaint form, which you’ll receive with a court summons that tells you you’re being sued and how long you have to respond to the case.

Written by Attorney Tina Tran. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 5, 2025

If you are sued for debt in Kentucky, the best thing you can do is respond and take action! If you are sued through circuit court or district court (not small claims), you need to file an answer within 20 days of receiving your summons and complaint. If you are sued through the small claims division of the district court, you don’t have to file an answer but you can file a counterclaim. Local rules vary from county to county, so it’s always best to check with your court to verify the best way to proceed with your case.

Written by Attorney Tina Tran. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 23, 2025

If you’re sued in Illinois for debt collection, you must file an appearance if you’re sued for less than $10,000. To complete an appearance form, you will fill out your personal information, select which trial type you prefer (this is only a preference, not a guarantee), fill out the proof of delivery, e-file your forms with your court within 30 days (generally), then deliver a copy of the appearance on the plaintiff. A written answer is not required for debt collection lawsuits in small claims court cases in Illinois, but you can file one if you choose, though fees may apply. Filing an answer may help you prepare your defenses for trial and show the debt collector that you’re serious about asserting your rights. Procedures vary from county to county in Illinois, so it is always best to check with your court to verify what is required of you in a debt collection lawsuit.

Written by Jonathan Petts. Legally reviewed by Ben Jackson
Updated May 1, 2025

Washington has two state debt collection laws: the Washington Collection Agency Act (CAA) and the Washington Consumer Protection Act (CPA). Combined, these two laws provide important protections for state residents against original creditors, third-party debt collectors, and debt buyers. Washington residents get further protection from the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). The statute of limitations for credit card debt and medical bills in Washington state is six years.

Written by Attorney Tina Tran. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 22, 2025

When it comes to debt collection, Tennesseans are primarily protected by the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). That said, Tennessee’s Consumer Protection Act does provide some consumer protections against misconduct that aren’t specifically outlined in the FDCPA. The Tennessee Consumer Protection Act also requires third-party debt collectors and debt buyers to register with the Tennessee Collection Service Board. The statute of limitations for medical debt and credit card debt is six years in Tennessee.

Written by Attorney Tina Tran. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 6, 2025

Pennsylvania has two state debt collection laws: the Pennsylvania Fair Credit Extension Uniformity Act (FCEUA) and the Pennsylvania Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law (UTPCPL). Combined, these two laws provide important protections for state residents against both original creditors and third-party debt collectors. Pennsylvanians get further protections from the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) offered to all states. The statute of limitations for all debt contracts (including credit cards and medical bills) in Pennsylvania is four years.

Written by Jonathan Petts. Legally reviewed by Ben Jackson
Updated April 23, 2025

If you’re sued for a debt in the state of Washington, it’s important to respond! And it might be easier than you think. Here are the basic steps: 1. Fill out an answer and appearance form. 2. Complete a certificate of service form. 3. File your forms with the court within 20 days of receiving the summons. 4. Deliver a copy of your answer form to the person suing you.

Written by Attorney Tina Tran. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 24, 2025

If you’re sued for a debt in South Carolina, the most important thing you can do is respond! Here are the basic steps: 1. Fill out an answer form. 2. Note your defenses. 3. File your forms with the court within 30 days of receiving the summons. 4. Deliver a copy of your answer form to the person suing you.

Written by Attorney Tina Tran. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 30, 2025

If you’re sued for a debt in Oklahoma, the most important thing you can do is respond and take action. Your debt collection lawsuit will be heard in either a small claims court or district court. If your case is in district court, you need to fill out and file a written answer within 20 days of receiving your summons and complaint. If your case is in small claims court, you may not be able to file an answer form (depending on the court), but you must show up to your hearing with your prepared response and defenses.

Written by Jonathan Petts. Legally reviewed by Ben Jackson
Updated May 22, 2025

If you live in Oklahoma, your best line of protection against unfair debt collectors is the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). This is a federal consumer protection law. Oklahoma hasn’t passed any state-specific debt collection laws to protect its residents. The statute of limitations for written debt contracts — including medical debt and credit card debt — is four years in Oklahoma.

Written by Mae Koppes. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 8, 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.

Written by Mae Koppes. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 5, 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.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 8, 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.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 6, 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.

Written by Attorney Tina Tran. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 29, 2025

Unifin, Inc. is a debt collection agency. They collect different kinds of consumer debts such as past-due credit cards, medical bills, and loans. If Unifin is contacting you, make sure the debt is valid before you give them any information or make any payments. Since Unifin buys debts from original creditors and lenders, sometimes their information is wrong. If you do owe Unifin, consider negotiating a settlement to pay less than the full amount. Debt settlement is a common practice and a good way to put the matter to rest and ease your financial stress.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 1, 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).

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 8, 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.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 22, 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.

Written by Attorney Tina Tran. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 23, 2025

If Unifin contacts you to try to collect a debt, know your rights and fight back. Start by making sure they can validate the debt and its details. Then, decide what to do next. If you don’t owe the debt, dispute it. If you do owe it, negotiate a settlement for less than the full amount. If you get sued by Unifin, respond to the lawsuit using the information provided in this article.

Written by Attorney Tina Tran. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 6, 2025

Central Portfolio Control Inc. (CPC) is a legitimate debt collection agency focusing on consumer debts. CPC collects consumer debts, mainly for banks and financial institutions. If CPC contacts you, you should first validate the alleged debt. After confirming the debt is yours, you can decide how to move forward. You can dispute the debt, if there are inaccuracies or if you disagree with the alleged amount. Or you can begin negotiations to settle the debt for less than the full amount you owe.

Written by Jonathan Petts. Legally reviewed by Ben Jackson
Updated April 29, 2025

CBE Group LLC is a legitimate debt collection agency focusing on consumer debts. If CBE Group contacts you, you’ll first want to validate the alleged debt. After confirming the debt is yours, you can decide how to address matters with CBE Group LLC. Your main choices include disputing the debt (especially if you find inaccuracies or disagree with the specified amount) or negotiating to settle the debt. If you negotiate to settle the debt, you pay a reduced portion of the total amount owed.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 5, 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.

Written by Jonathan Petts. Legally reviewed by Ben Jackson
Updated May 8, 2025

LVNV Funding is a third-party debt collection agency that collects on overdue consumer credit cards and loans. If they are contacting you, your first action should be to validate the debt. Make sure the details they have are accurate before disclosing any information or making payments. Since LVNV Funding purchases debts that have been charged off, they often have inaccurate information. If you do owe LVNV Funding, a great strategy is to negotiate a settlement. You will pay less than the original amount and have peace of mind knowing the debt is behind you.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 1, 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.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 8, 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.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 8, 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.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 8, 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.

Written by Attorney Tina Tran. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 8, 2025

Frost-Arnett Company is a debt collection agency that collects medical debts for healthcare companies. If Frost-Arnett contacts you, the first thing you’ll want to do is validate the debt and confirm it is really yours. Once you do confirm that the debt is yours, you can choose how you’d like to deal with Frost-Arnett. 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, so you only pay off a portion of your overall amount owed.

Written by Attorney Tina Tran. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 8, 2025

If LVNV Funding reaches out to try to collect a debt, get informed about your rights and learn your options. First, make sure the debt is valid. If it isn’t, dispute it. If it is, figure out what you can pay and draft a settlement offer. Even if LVNV Funding sues you, you can still try to negotiate a settlement to pay less than you owe. Continue to respond to the lawsuit while you work out negotiations.

Written by Jonathan Petts. Legally reviewed by Ben Jackson
Updated May 1, 2025

Resurgent Capital Services is a legitimate debt collection agency that collects past-due credit card bills, medical bills, and other consumer debt. The first thing you should do if Resurgent contacts you is verify the amount of the alleged debt and that it actually belongs to you. After confirming the debt is yours, you can choose how to address the situation. If you disagree with any details of the debt, you can dispute it. If you agree that you owe it, you can pay it in full or try to negotiate a debt settlement to pay a reduced portion of the debt.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 8, 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.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated June 18, 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.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 1, 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.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 7, 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.

Written by Curtis Lee, JD. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 21, 2025

If MBA Law contacts you to collect a debt or tries to sue you for a debt, you have rights and can fight back. To start, have them validate the debt. If they can validate the debt but you disagree with it, you can dispute it. If the debt is valid and you agree that you owe it, you can pay it off in full or try to settle the account for less than what you owe. These negotiations are common with debt collectors like MBA Law. If MBA Law sues you, it’s best to respond quickly, or you risk losing the lawsuit and potentially having your paycheck garnished.

Written by Attorney Tina Tran. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 30, 2025

If Velocity Investments contacts you to collect a debt, it’s critical to first validate the details of the debt account. If they aren’t correct, send Velocity a verification letter to dispute the debt. If you know the information is accurate and agree that you owe the debt, you can use the information in this article to negotiate a settlement for less than the full amount. If Velocity Investments sues you, you can still try to negotiate a settlement, but you should also respond to the lawsuit.

Written by Jonathan Petts.
Updated May 7, 2025

11 Charter Communications is a legitimate debt collection agency. Its parent company is Charter Communications Inc., better known as Spectrum. If Charter Communications contacts you, you’ll first want to validate the debt. Once you verify that the debt is yours, you can choose how to deal with 11 Charter Communications. You can dispute the debt (if the information is incorrect or you disagree with the debt amount) or negotiate a settlement so you only pay a portion of the total amount.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 8, 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.

Written by the Upsolve Team.
Updated April 24, 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.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 23, 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.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 1, 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.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 17, 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.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 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.

Written by Attorney Tina Tran. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 16, 2025

CCS Offices is a third-party debt collection agency. If they contact you, they’re probably trying to get you to pay on a collection account they purchased from one of your creditors. Make sure they validate the debt before you pay anything. If the debt is valid but you can’t afford to pay the full amount, try to negotiate a debt settlement. If CCS Offices sues you, you can still try to negotiate a settlement, but it’s important to respond to the lawsuit as well. You can respond by filling out an answer form from the court.

Written by Curtis Lee, JD. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 29, 2025

Velocity Investments LLC is a debt collector that specializes in recovering consumer debts, like personal loans, credit cards, medical bills, and utility bills. If you receive a call or letter from Velocity Investments, make sure they’ve validated the debt in writing. If the debt is valid, you can choose to dispute the debt, negotiate a debt settlement, or ignore the debt (not recommended). This guide goes over your options and the debt validation process.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 7, 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.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 24, 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).

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 30, 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.

Written by Attorney Tina Tran. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 23, 2025

If Midland Funding is contacting you, they’re probably attempting to collect a debt. Before you do anything else, determine if the debt is valid. If it is but you can’t afford to pay it in full, you can try to negotiate a debt settlement. If Midland files a lawsuit against you, read the details thoroughly and respond quickly. Use this article as your guide to take on Midland Funding successfully.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 8, 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.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 21, 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.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 23, 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.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 7, 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.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 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.

Written by Jonathan Petts. Legally reviewed by Ben Jackson
Updated April 22, 2025

Aldous & Associates is a third-party debt collector that collects consumer debts for telecommunication companies, property management firms, and health and fitness clubs. If they contact you, they are likely looking to settle a debt. Before you pay anything, it’s best to validate the debt. If the debt is legitimate but you can’t afford to pay it in full, you can try to negotiate the amount down. If Aldous & Associates sues you for unpaid debt, file an answer form as soon as possible to avoid wage garnishment or other serious consequences.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 14, 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.

Written by the Upsolve Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 1, 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.

Written by Attorney Tina Tran. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated April 16, 2025

RMP Services is a debt collector that works exclusively for healthcare companies. If they contact you, they likely bought a past-due account from a healthcare provider and are looking to collect on it. Before you pay anything, validate the debt to ensure it’s legitimate. If the debt is genuine, you probably have to pay or risk serious consequences. If you can’t afford the full amount, make a debt settlement offer to repay a fraction of the original debt amount and close the account for good. If RMP Services sues you, respond ASAP by filing an answer form with your court.

Written by Curtis Lee, JD. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated May 8, 2025

If Revco Solutions tries to collect a debt from you, you have options and can fight back. The first thing you should do is have Revco Solutions validate the debt to confirm they have authorization to collect it. Then, verify that the debt is yours and the amount is correct. If you disagree with the debt, you can dispute it. If the debt’s details are correct, you can try to negotiate a settlement for less than what you owe. If Revco Solutions sues you, you can still negotiate the debt, but you must also respond to the summons and complaint. Otherwise, you risk them garnishing your paycheck or bank account.

Written by Jonathan Petts. Legally reviewed by Ben Jackson
Updated May 8, 2025

Penn Credit is a third-party debt agency that collects on past-due bills from hospitals, governments, toll road operators, and utility companies. If Penn Credit contacts you to collect a debt, validate the debt before you pay anything. If the debt isn’t yours or the amount is incorrect, dispute it. If the debt is yours but you are unable to pay it, consider negotiating a settlement.

Written by Jonathan Petts. Legally reviewed by Ben Jackson
Updated April 18, 2025

If Penn Credit reaches out to you, they may be looking to collect a debt they think you owe. Before paying anything, validate that the debt is legitimate and yours. If you agree that you owe the money, you can figure out how much of the debt you can pay and begin debt settlement negotiations to pay less than the full amount. If Penn Credit sues you, respond immediately by filing an answer form. Most importantly, try not to stress — you’ve got this!

Written by Jonathan Petts.
Updated October 15, 2024

Being judgment-proof means creditors can’t collect from you, even if they win a lawsuit, because your income and assets are legally protected. This often applies to people whose income comes from sources like Social Security or unemployment benefits and who don’t have significant assets. If you’re judgment-proof, you can tell debt collectors to stop contacting you by sending a cease and desist letter. While this stops the harassment, it doesn’t erase the debt or prevent them from suing you. But even if they win, they likely can’t collect.

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.

Written by Mae Koppes. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
Updated January 22, 2025

Are you getting repeated calls from 888-899-6650? This number belongs to the debt collection agency Transworld Systems Inc (TSI). They usually call on behalf of creditors to recover unpaid debts. If you’ve missed payments on a loan or medical bill, TSI may be contacting you to try to collect it. This guide will help you understand why they’re calling, what your rights are, and how you can stop the phone calls while protecting your financial well-being.