How to Start Paying a Judgment

Creditors and lenders may seek payment, but if you're unresponsive, they can file a lawsuit against you. A judge can place a judgment on your record for non-payment. Taking steps to start paying a judgment can help fix your credit problems. Judgments on your credit report indicate past payment issues. For this reason, don't ignore a judgment. Review your finances and make plans to satisfy the debt.

Instructions

1

Satisfy a judgment through the court system. Visit the court clerk where the judgment occurred and complete the form, Request to Pay Judgment in Court. Submit your payment to satisfy the judgment, along with any additional fees. After receiving your payment, the court updates your record and notifies the creditor of your payment.

2

Write a check or get a money order for the full amount to satisfy the judgment, and then send the payment directly to your creditor. Do not send cash. If you don't have the total amount to satisfy the judgment, discuss an installment plan with your creditor or the court clerk.

3

Retain proof of your payment. Make a photocopy of the check before mailing, and once the check clears your bank, print a copy to keep for your records.

4

Submit your request to acknowledge that you paid the debt. Your creditor should submit a form acknowledging that you satisfied a debt after receiving your payment. If the creditor does not submit this form, visit the court clerk and complete the form titled Declaration of Judgment Debtor Regarding Satisfaction of Judgment. Bring a copy of the check that cleared your bank as proof of payment. The court clerk will file the paperwork and update your record.