Start Here: Understand Your Money Problem

A debt collector contacted me recently about a debt. 

• Learn what to do when contacted about a debt.

A debt collector is saying I need to pay back a debt I don’t think I owe or can’t remember. 

• Learn how to dispute a debt.

I am worried about a debt collector taking my money or property. 

• There are some kinds of money and property that are protected from debt collectors. Check out our article, 19 Things a Debt Collector Cannot Take.

Someone took money from my bank or credit union account. 

• When someone takes money from your account, that’s called an account levy. Find out the rules for when and how much someone can take from your account.

Someone took money from my paycheck. 

• When someone takes money from your paycheck, that’s called a wage garnishment. Find out the rules for when and how much someone can take from your paycheck.

I think I might be collection proof. 

• When all your income and property are protected from debt collectors, that is often called “collection proof.” Find out what income and property are exempt.

Someone took my exempt income or property and I want to get it back. 

• You only have 10 business days after you learn that someone took your exempt income or property to file paperwork to ask for it back.

I think a debt collector is violating my rights. 

• Debt collectors must follow the law when they contact you. Find out your rights when dealing with a debt collector.

I am getting charged for things that I don’t think I owe. 

• Learn how to dispute a debt.
• If you’re getting charged for things that you never agreed to buy or borrow, you may be a victim of Identity Theft. Learn what you can do to stop identity theft.

I don’t think I can pay back all my debt. I think I need to file for bankruptcy. 

• Find out what you need to know when thinking about bankruptcy.
• Check out our Bankruptcy FAQ.

How do I change information on my Credit Report? 

• Find out how to dispute errors on your Credit Report. 

I’m looking for free or low-cost financial counseling. 

• HUD-approved housing counselors offer independent advice on credit issues, renting, defaults, foreclosures, and buying a home.

I have questions about repossession. 

• Check out our article How to Protect Your Car or Mobile Home from Repossession.

I have questions about buying a used car 

• Check out our articles on used cars.