How to Increase a Credit Score in 30 Days

Managing credit card debt, especially in today's economic tempest, is extremely difficult. Low credit scores can amount to failed attempts to purchase cars, buy houses or even rent aparments. However, there are practical steps for increasing your credit score in just thirty days. Even better, it may not even force you to eliminate one penny of your debt. Instructions Analyze Your Current Credit 1 Acknowledge where you are with your credit score. Fortunately, this process is free. Access the Internet and head to FreeCreditReport.com (see...

Read More

Rules for Wage Garnishment Attachments

If you have to default on a loan because you have no way of paying it, both federal and state laws provide you with some protection. A creditor cannot take all of your wages or salary; the creditor must leave you with something to pay your regular bills and enough wages to live on. Generally, a creditor will garnish your bank accounts before attempting to attach your wages. When a creditor attaches your wages, it collects on your debt by a little...

Read More

How to Pay My MasterCard

Having a MasterCard doesn't mean you can pay your bill directly through the MasterCard website. One of the most popular credit cards in America, MasterCard is issued to consumers by hundreds of different sources, including banks like Chase and Internet sites like PayPal. Paying your MasterCard means knowing where the card was issued and what methods of payment it will accept. Have your bank account information ready when it comes time to pay your...

Read More

What Is Irredeemable Debt?

The concept of irredeemable debt in the United States is something that has had an effect on our economy, as well as on how we are capable of using our money in general. Today, countries around the world operate their finances on this principle, as it has taken precedence over the gold standard as a way of ensuring a country's wealth. Definition If something is irredeemable, it cannot be bought back or paid off. In the case of irredeemable...

Read More

GDP vs. Consumer Debt

GDP stands for gross domestic product, which is the value all goods and services produced in a certain period, such as a year, in the United States or another country. Consumer debt is the amount of debt that consumers have outstanding, excluding mortgage loans. Significance The GDP can be used to determine whether the economy is growing or shrinking. An increase in GDP means goods and services are being produced in response to demand, and the economy is growing. Function You can measure GDP by the expenditure method. Simply add...

Read More

Can I Have My Wages Garnished for Not Paying a Debt in Michigan?

Michigan allows creditors to garnish your wages for outstanding debts. The creditor has to file a lawsuit against you in a Michigan court, and a judge has to find in favor of the creditor before a wage garnishment can begin. Creditors can also execute a garnishment of your state tax refund. Garnishment Lawsuit Procedures A creditor has to file a lawsuit against you in a Michigan court, even if it has headquarters in a different state. Typically, the creditor will hire an attorney in Michigan to file the suit with your local county court....

Read More

Debt Elimination & Reduction

Our society is one that encourages debt, and this makes it especially hard to get yourself out of trouble and maintain your lifestyle once you find yourself in trouble. The temptation to rely on credit to help with "unusual" expenses or get you through a rough patch is one that will land you deeply in debt if you are not very careful. Debt Reduction If you find yourself deeply in debt, reduction should be your first concern. First, you will need to create a budget to deal with your finances and prevent yourself from getting further in trouble....

Read More

How to Fight a Debt Collector in Court

By understanding the finer points of consumer protection law, you can turn the tables on debt collectors in court and fight to have an incorrect or incomplete debt discharged. Consumers fighting a debt collection claim have various options, including arguing the case in court for a final judgment. Properly preparing your case can improve your chances of winning the case and having the lawsuit overturned. Instructions 1 Comply with the instructions printed on the court summons, which may require a telephone response or a written response...

Read More

Does an IRS Bank Account Levy Appear on a Credit Report?

Don't bother trying to ignore a debt to the Internal Revenue Service because the federal government doesn't just give up. If the IRS has levied your bank account, you've already ignored the debt too long. A levy won't appear on your credit record, but it will hurt you financially and can have long-lasting repercussions. Bank Levy A bank levy is a debt collection tactic the IRS uses after getting you to pay your debt on your own has failed....

Read More

How to Report Credit Card Fraud to Credit Bureaus

Identity thieves are known for stealing personal information and attempting to establish credit in someone else's name. If you suspect that you have been a victim of fraud, it is best that you notify the credit bureau immediately. There are several types of fraud alerts that you may place: a 90-day fraud alert, an extended fraud alert or an active military duty fraud alert. After the alert is placed, creditors are required to verify all information...

Read More

Disadvantages of Credit Settlements

If you're got a lot of credit card debt and you're unable to meet your minimum payments, a credit settlement might sound like an appealing option. After all, the constant advertisements on TV and radio make it sound so simple. However, there's a dark side to settling with your credit card companies that these ads don't tell you about. Credit Settlement Basics In a credit settlement, you or an authorized representative work with the credit card companies to come to an agreement regarding your balance. In some cases, you can resolve your...

Read More

How to Avoid Balance Transfer Fees

Balance transfers were great back in the easy-credit days of yore. With 0% credit card offers and no-fee balance transfers you could move balances around without issue. Now that the economy has contracted, balance transfer fees are back in the 2-5% range and 0% interest offers are getting harder to find. However, there is a method that can get you around the balance transfer fees and help you pay less on your existing credit card debt. Instructions...

Read More

Best Ways to Pay Off Large Credit Card Debt

Many conditions can lead to large credit card debt, including unemployment, unexpected medical expenses, or living beyond your means. While having some credit card debt may be beneficial, as lenders like to see the responsible use of credit, having excessive credit card debt leads to falling credit scores, rising interest costs and sometimes inability to pay. There are different strategies to handle paying off large credit card debt, and some are...

Read More

How to Request Credit Report When Turned Down for Credit

When you apply for a loan or a credit card, you may not always get a positive response from the creditor. Based on the information they receive from one of the three major credit reporting agencies--TransUnion, Experian, and Equifax--they may turn you down. Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), you are entitled to receive a free copy of your credit report from the agency consulted by the creditor. With this credit report, you can check for errors in the report and discover what might have led to the rejection. Instructions Getting Your...

Read More

If a Car Is Towed Off Street Due to Expired Registration Tags, Would it Show on One's Credit Report?

A car that is unregistered or that has an expired state registration parked on city streets would definitely be considered an eyesore by most communities, and the municipal government would probably take action to remedy the situation, according to the local laws. These laws may impose a fine for each day the vehicle was parked, and if you did not pay the fine, it could cause problems. Impound Fees It is unlikely that an unregistered vehicle parked on city streets would be towed off the first day, or even the first week that it was sitting...

Read More

How to Negotiate a Settlement With Chase

Credit card debt plagues the homes of countless Americans. During these difficult economic times, many people have found themselves owing more on their credit cards than they are capable of paying each month. Fortunately, negotiating a settlement with a credit card company is a common practice that can yield positive results and eliminate stress. Making the effort to negotiate with Chase (or any other creditor) can have a less dramatic effect on...

Read More

The Advantages of Revolving Debt

Revolving debt is an open-ended form of credit that is not required to be paid off by a certain date. Instead, you can carry a continuous balance and make only required minimum monthly payments. Common examples of revolving debt include credit cards and home equity lines of credit. Revolving debt can offer certain advantages over closed-end debt, although users must manage it carefully to keep it under control. Ease of Access Revolving debt...

Read More

How to Rebuild Your Credit Fast

Credit challenges make even the simplest tasks, such as renting an apartment or getting a job, difficult. Even if your credit is less than stellar, there are actions that can rebuild credit quickly.Your credit score is comprised of several different categories. Focusing on the areas that make up the largest chunk of your score can make a significant impact on your credit rating. Instructions 1 Order a copy of your credit report. The first...

Read More

How to Turn Your Bad Credit Score Around

Turn your bad credit around and improve your chances of qualifying for low-rate financing deals. Bad credit can happen after you lose a job or deal with an illness because you may fall behind on payments or rely on credit card to make ends meet. However, regardless of the cause of credit issues, you can turn your bad credit around. Instructions 1 Set up alerts to remember to pay your bills on time. Manage your accounts online and/or through your smartphone and request payment reminders a few days before your due date. Mailing a bill late...

Read More

How to Pay Off My Bills Before Death

Bills and debt don't disappear when a debtor dies. This responsibility falls on surviving loved ones, and for this reason, many people have life insurance policies to help pay personal expenses after death. But if you don't want loved ones to worry about bills and debt after your death, take steps to pay off balances now. Instructions 1 Get rid of credit cards. Regular credit card use can slow efforts to pay off bills. Take credit cards out of wallet and purses, and then use scissors to destroy the cards. Begin using cash and save before...

Read More

How to Cash a Check at a Check Cashing Store

Many banks will not cash your check if you don't have an account, so you may need to go to a check-cashing store. These businesses cash a variety of checks, from personal and cashier's checks to Social Security, pension checks and income tax refunds. You need the proper identification and there will be a fee depending on the type of check cashed. Policies vary between stores based on the type of check, the customer and other factors. Instructions...

Read More

Money Rules for Debt

Money and credit are what drives the world and using these tools effectively will make your own life financially sound. Consumers who follow common sense money rules for debt avoidance will reject the temptations of instant gratification that credit cards offer, and make use of good debt that can pave the way for a comfortable retirement. Living Beneath Your Means The essential rule of smart debt management is to live on a budget that's beneath...

Read More

What Are the Positives & Negatives of Having a Debit Card?

Debit cards, also known as check cards, have both positive and negative points. Debit cards look like credit cards, but they are linked directly to a checking or other bank account. They can be used similarly to credit cards to make purchases, or they can be used to withdraw cash from an ATM. Obtaining a Card One positive of debit cards is that they are easy to obtain. They are often issued automatically with a new checking account. so...

Read More

How to Protect Against Debt Collection Harassment in Minnesota

Ideally, creditors will work with you to create a payment plan. If you fall behind with payments, creditors send the account to an in-house collection department or employ a third-party collection agency. Although valid debt is collectible, debt collectors must provide proof that the debt is legitimate and follow Minnesota and federal laws protecting consumers from unfair practices. Under Minnesota law, debt collection employees must apply for and...

Read More

Is There any Benefit in Having an Unsecured Loan Rather Than a Secured One?

Loans can be broken down into two types: secured and unsecured. A secured loan is a loan that is backed by collateral. In the event that the borrower defaults on the loan, then the lender can seize the collateral as compensation. An unsecured loan is a loan that is not backed by collateral. Although unsecured loans typically carry higher rates of interest than secured loans, they have several advantages to the borrower. Less Complicated In many cases, taking out an unsecured loan is easier and quicker than taking out a secured loan. This...

Read More

What Does the Credit Bureau Validate?

Each credit bureau maintains a database of financial records that makes up your credit report with that particular bureau. In the event that information on the bureau's report is inaccurate, federal credit reporting laws under the Fair Credit Reporting Act give you the right to contest the information's accuracy. The credit bureau must conduct a "reinvestigation" and attempt to validate the item. Dispute and Validation Regardless of whether you file a dispute online or send a dispute via mail complete with thorough documentation that the...

Read More

Grants for Individuals to Pay Off Debt

When your debt is affecting your marriage, your job, your family or your sleeping habits, it's time to get help. Unfortunately, there's no easy way out, and advertisements suggesting that a free grant is the solution to your debt problem are lying. Don't despair; help is available for those who seek it. The solutions are low-cost, confidential and easier than you might think. Grants: What They Can---and Can't---Do Both government and privately...

Read More

How to Stop Wage Garnishment in Florida

Wage garnishment is allowed after a creditor has been granted a judgment by a court of law. A creditor is able to garnish wages based on the limits set by the state of Florida. Florida law allows 25% of wages to be garnished in most cases. Once garnishment is in place and established, filing bankruptcy can prevent further wage garnishment. The exception to this is in cases where your wage garnishment is due to child support. Instructions 1 ...

Read More

Can You Negotiate a Payoff With Credit Cards?

If you cannot make payments on your credit cards, you may seek a way out of your predicament. One avenue is negotiating a payoff with your credit cards, so you do not have to pay the full amount but are no longer liable for your debt. While this may seem to be a better way out than bankruptcy, each type of debt settlement has its advantages and disadvantages. Direct Negotiation If you want to lower the amount you owe on your credit cards, direct negotiation with your creditor may be your best option. Unfortunately, most creditors will be...

Read More

What Is a Credit Report Charge Off?

If you have bad credit due to the non-payment of debts, your credit report may contain one or more charge-offs. A charge-off on your credit will reduce your credit score. Definitions A charge-off is a debt that has become more than six months delinquent, without payment, according to cardreport.com. To creditors, a charge-off is written off as uncollectable. Time Frame According to the Fair Credit Reporting Act, a charge-off will remain...

Read More

How to Use Credit Cards to Improve Bad Credit Scores

Misusing credit cards can cause your credit score to drop like a stone. However, you can also use credit cards to rebuild your credit if you have a bad credit score. You must be extremely disciplined when you are trying to use credit cards to improve your credit score. If you let your spending get out of hand, you can completely ruin your credit. Instructions 1 Sign up for a new credit card. Since you have bad credit, you'll probably only be able to get a credit card that is marketed to people with bad credit. This card will have a low credit...

Read More

Free Debt Elimination Advice

Acquiring a debt-free life does not require using a debt-consolidation agency or other professional help. You can get rid of your debt free. And once you have cleared your debt, you'll enjoy a higher credit rating and better rates on loans and credit cards. Higher Payments Minimum payments may reduce your principle on credit card, but it's not enough to put a significant dent in your balance. Plan to make higher monthly payments to reduce...

Read More

Does Debt Consolidation Hurt Credit?

Will Debt Consolidation Hurt My Credit Rating? The concept of how debt consolidation affects an individual's credit rating is complex. In the short term, depending on the method of debt consolidation, it may harm one's credit rating. This is especially true if the debt consolidation involves bargaining with creditors to arrange for a lump payment lower than the outstanding debt. Such debt consolidation tactics will lower a person's credit...

Read More

Credit Consolidation Help

If you are paying too high an interest rate on your credit accounts, credit consolidation can help you acquire a cheaper rate. And with consolidation, you can merge your outstanding credit accounts into one loan or bill. Explore consolidation options first, and then select the method that works best for your situation. Second Mortgage Taking out a second mortgage on your home, which refers to getting a loan using your home's equity as collateral, can provide a means of consolidating your credit cards and other loans. This method works by...

Read More

How Is a Foreclosure Reported on Your Credit?

Losing a home to foreclosure is an experience that many individuals would prefer to keep private. Unfortunately, if your mortgage lender seizes your property, it inserts a record of the foreclosure into your credit history. This allows other lenders and creditors to see that you lost your home due to nonpayment whenever they review your credit report. Both your lender and your local court system play a role in reporting your foreclosure to the credit...

Read More

What Is APR Financing?

Postmodern economies are predicated on credit. Not only do consumers buy what they can't immediately afford, lenders extend credit based on interest earnings they haven't collected yet. APR financing is the most common method of credit for consumers and is used in buying things like houses, appliances, and cars. Function Federal law requires that lenders report an annual percentage rate, or APR, to borrowers for ease in comparing loan offers....

Read More

Best Ways to Repair Credit

There are several ways to build a positive credit history. Lenders request credit reports upon receiving a loan application. And, based on your three-digit personal score, they'll either approve you for a loan or deny your application. Improving your credit is one of the best ways to guarantee an approval and low interest rate. But before you can acquire a better rating, you'll need to recognize factors that result in a rating decrease. Credit Report Mistakes Credit bureaus and lenders are imperfect; thus, they're capable of making mistakes....

Read More

Is My Debt Settlement Program Legitimate?

A lawfully created debt management or debt settlement company is bound by federal and state regulations regarding operation and communication with potential clients. Separating a legitimate debt management company from a scam operation is a matter of information. The more information clients are given regarding the company's business practices and track record of consumer advocating, the more likely it is that the business is legitimate. Upfront Fees and Charges The Federal Trade Commission's Telemarketing Sales Rule prohibits a company...

Read More

How do I Get a Credit Report Free When Credit Is Refused?

The Fair Credit Reporting Act is a federal law designed to regulate the information shared by credit reporting agencies thereby protecting the consumer. A provision of the act allows consumers to receive a free credit report upon denial of credit. Denial of Credit You may be eligible to receive a free copy of your credit report if there has been any adverse reaction as a result of information contained in your credit report. This may include...

Read More

Florida & Creditor Denial Laws

The Federal Trade Commission has the authority to prosecute lenders who violate federal anti-predatory loan laws and the Equal Credit Opportunity Act. Under federal law, lenders who deny credit to applicants based on their credit history must provide them with written reasons for denying them credit. States can enact additional consumer protection regulations. In Florida, the Office of the Attorney General has the authority to investigate violations of the Fair Credit Reporting Act in conjunction with the Federal Trade Commission. Florida Office...

Read More