Articles

When it comes to preparing for weather emergencies or other disasters, financial readiness is as important as a flashlight with fully charged batteries. Leaving your home can be stressful, but knowing that your personal and financial documents are up to date, in one place, and easy to find can make a big difference. Here’s how to organize important papers before a disaster strikes.

If a debt collector files a lawsuit against you to collect a debt, it’s important to respond — either yourself or through an attorney. And remember, you have rights when it comes to dealing with debt collectors. Here are answers to some common questions you might have about the process.

Are you having trouble paying your car loan and thinking about doing business with a company that promises to get you a loan with lower monthly payments? Not all refinancing companies play by the rules. Learn how to recognize, avoid, and report auto loan refinancing scams.

Do you owe back taxes and don’t know how you’re going to pay them? Tax relief companies say they can lower or get rid of your tax debts and stop back-tax collection. They say they’ll apply for IRS hardship programs on your behalf for an upfront fee. But in many cases, they leave you even further in debt. Your best bet is to try to work out a payment plan with the IRS for federal taxes or your state comptroller if you owe state taxes. 

Is a debt collector calling? What can you do? What are your rights? The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) makes it illegal for debt collectors to use abusive, unfair, or deceptive practices when they collect debts. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about your rights.

Here’s what to know about the rules and your rights when a collector contacts you about a deceased relative’s debts.

Scammers promise to make changes to your mortgage loan or take other steps to save your home, but they don’t deliver. Never pay a company upfront for promises to help you get relief on paying your mortgage.

Reverse mortgages let you cash in on the equity in your home: these mortgages can have serious implications.

Signing over your disability settlement payments to raise cash fast can hurt your finances in the long run. You may end up without enough money to live on. 

Dealing with your mortgage can feel confusing and frustrating. But you have rights when it comes to making your payments and how your servicer manages your account. Learn your rights concerning how your loan servicer manages your mortgage loan account.

A merchant’s hold – or block – on your credit card may mean you can’t use your card for awhile. You might have to pay overdraft charges.

When buying a home, shop around, compare terms, and prepare to negotiate to get the best deal.

Some companies promise you a low-interest loan or credit card, but want a fee first. They’re scams. Learn the warning signs.