Credit counseling, settlement and bankruptcy basics.
Getting Started With Debt Settlement
How for-profit debt settlement works, which federal rules limit its fees, and the risks to your credit, wallet and taxes before you sign anything.
Does Debt Settlement Hurt Your Credit? What Really Happens
Debt settlement can hurt your credit through missed payments and a settled status. Here is what shows up on reports, plus the tax rules and timelines.
If You're Sued Over a Payday Loan: What to Do First
Served with a lawsuit over a payday or title loan? Learn the response deadlines, how to file an answer, validate the debt, and settle before judgment.
What People Get Wrong About Debt Settlement
Debt settlement can mean upfront fees, lawsuits, a tax bill on forgiven debt and lasting credit damage. Learn the common mistakes and the safer options first.
A Timeline for Filing Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
A month-by-month Chapter 7 timeline for borrowers buried in payday debt: the means test, credit counseling, the 341 meeting, and discharge.