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What happens if a Chapter 13 bankruptcy case is dismissed?

• Bankruptcy

If a Chapter 13 bankruptcy case is dismissed, several things can happen. First, your automatic stay -- put in place when you first filed -- is no longer in force. That means creditors can once again take action to collect a debt, which can include harassing phone calls and letters, wage garnishment, foreclosures, repossessions, and debt collection lawsuits. You lose your protection from creditors. Next, you may also face new collection activity for any d... CONTINUE READING

How long can a debt collector legally pursue old debt?

• Debt Collection

In uncertain times, a person can become overwhelmed by debt and default on their payments. This is especially true if you face unexpected circumstances like job loss, natural disaster, or a devastating medical diagnosis. So you may be asking yourself, “How long can a debt collector legally pursue old debt?” The statute of limitations on debt in Ohio is six years. After six years, a debt collector cannot take legal action against you to recover old debt. Debt that is p... CONTINUE READING

Debt Forgiveness for Seniors

• Retirement

There is an alarming trend that is growing in America, and it has been made worse by COVID-19 in 2020.  More and more older Americans and retirees are burdened with significant debt.  A recent study shows that individuals age 55 and older with debt grew from 54% in 1998 to 68% in 2019.  The research, conducted by the Employee Benefits Researc... CONTINUE READING

Does Bankruptcy Disqualify You for a Job?

• Bankruptcy

Does bankruptcy disqualify you for a job? If you’re overwhelmed by debt and are considering the proactive step of filing for bankruptcy so you can get a fresh start, you may have several questions. One of these might be, “does bankruptcy disqualify you from a job?” In most situations, bankruptcy won’t affect your current employment. It is possible that in the future when you look for a new job, a potential employer could become aware of your bankru... CONTINUE READING

Can I Declare Bankruptcy on Student Loans?

• Bankruptcy

You May be Able to Discharge Student Loans in Bankruptcy Student loan debt is an ever-increasing problem in the United States and has become the second highest consumer debt category, right behind mortgages. Many students take out loans with the hope of finding a better job, and wind up struggling to pay them back. With costs rising faster than salaries, jobs most students get when out of college don’t pay enough to cover their expenses and... CONTINUE READING

Coronavirus Shutdown Is Affecting Debt Reporting and Foreclosures

• News

In the midst of all the chaos and uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus pandemic, some consumers are looking for ways to tighten their belts and prioritize finances.  For other consumers who were already behind on their bills, the virus could spell financial disaster.  This is especially true of workers who abruptly lost their jobs due to mandatory business shutdowns.  Experts say, at a time like this, it’s important to prioritize food, shelter, medical needs and utilities.&nb... CONTINUE READING

What Is the Statute of Limitations on Debt in Ohio?

• Bankruptcy

If you’ve fallen behind financially and are having trouble paying your bills, you may be wondering about your options. The statute of limitations for collection of debt in Ohio is six years. This time frame applies to the majority of situations and to most types of debt. Understand, however, that debt does not expire or disappear until you pay it. If a debt is valid, you still owe it until you pay it off, no matter how much time passes. The Ohio statute of limitations on debt simply limits the... CONTINUE READING

How Does Bankruptcy Affect Your Credit Score?

• Bankruptcy

THESE DAYS EVERYONE KNOWS THEIR CREDIT SCORE, JUST LIKE THEY KNOW THEIR PHONE NUMBER.  CAN THIS IMPORTANT NUMBER BE DAMAGED BY FILING FOR BANKRUPTCY? While filing for bankruptcy can initially lower your credit score, wiping out your debt will help raise your credit score over the long term.  Often, a person can rebuild their credit score after bankruptcy by following a few straightforward steps. Are you struggling with debt that seems to ke... CONTINUE READING

How Do I Get Out of Payday Loan Debt?

• Payday Loans

There is no shame in wondering “how do I get out of payday loan debt?” Life happens. The roof springs a leak, the car needs new tires, or an unexpected illness lands you in the hospital (and off work) for some time. These things can happen to anyone, and if you don’t have an emergency fund in savings, then you might have turned to a payday loan to meet these necessary expenses. When a crisis occurs, you do what you have to do to get past it. It can really fee... CONTINUE READING

Can Bankruptcy Stop Vehicle Repossessions and Lawsuits for Vehicle Debt?

• Repossessions

If your creditors file a lawsuit and get a judgment against you, they are allowed to repossess your vehicle and other property, foreclose on your home, and garnish your wages. Not only can you lose the house you live in or the car you have relied on to get to work, but you also lose the value you already made in payments. Fortunately, it can take several months for creditors to get a judgment, so you have time to act to protect your property. Even if your vehicle has... CONTINUE READING