Consumers who need advice on managing credit card debts, dealing with debt collectors or paying their taxes can find all of that information online and more. Consumer and government websites can help people unravel complicated credit and debt regulations, or find an attorney who specializes in consumer protection to handle various debt problems.
Consumer Sites
Consumer websites can be a good source of information about regulations intended to protect consumers in their dealings with creditors and lenders. For example, the website of National Association of Consumer Advocates includes information on debt-collection abuse and predatory-lending practices. People who need legal advice can find attorneys on the site who specialize in bankruptcy filings, debt-collection issues, foreclosure problems and other debt-related matters. You can search for attorneys on the site by their location and area of practice.
Federal Reserve Board
The U.S. Federal Reserve Board manages a website that provides information on consumers' credit card rights. The site is especially useful because it abandons the legalese of government legislation to clearly explain regulations that limit credit card interest-rate and fee increases. It also explains how creditors must handle billing and payments. Another section of the site explains laws that pertain to credit reporting, debt collection and lending practices. The site also includes a glossary that defines credit and lending terms consumers usually see in their credit card agreements and monthly statements.
Federal Trade Commission
A consumer protection section is included on the U.S. Federal Trade Commission website. It has information on creating a budget, dealing with debt collectors, and managing home and auto loans. People who are looking for credit-counseling services can get information on finding reputable counseling organizations. The FTC also describes the services that credit counselors should offer their clients to help them improve their financial situation. The site has information on bankruptcy and debt-management plans as well.
Internal Revenue Service
The Internal Revenue Service site describes people's options for handling a tax debt. The site suggests alternative payment options that can help reduce penalty and interest charges that accrue on late tax payments. People who can't afford to pay their tax bills in full can get details on IRS installment agreements that allow people to make several payments over time until their tax bills are settled. Penalty and interest charges still accrue on installment agreements.
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