I know it probably just felt like a kick in the stomach when you found out about that wage garnishment from your employer. Of course, a wage garnishment never comes at a time when you have a lot of money sitting around. Most people are served with a notice of wage garnishment when they are…Read more
Do I get to keep my car in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy?
The question of whether or not you can keep your car in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy process is a very common one. Unfortunately, as is so often the case with bankruptcy matters, the answer is, “It depends.” Normally, in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, your goal is to wipe out your unsecured debt. It is not…Read more
How Does Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Work?
The Chapter 13 bankruptcy process is commonly misunderstood. How it actually works and what it actually does is a question many clients ask. Chapter 13 bankruptcy requires repayment of your debt to at least some extent, it is primarily a method of restructuring your debt. A Chapter 13 bankruptcy will allow you to: Modify secured…Read more
What is Mortgage Forbearance under the CARES act?
You could be missing out on mortgage forbearance opportunities under the CARES Act. Between the pandemic and subsequent economic consequences, there are plenty of people struggling with mortgage payments right now. In March of 2020, Congress passed, and President Trump signed the CARES Act into law. Amongst other things, the CARES Act has provisions that…Read more
Why You Should Never Pay Your Mortgage with a Money Order
Lenders earn millions of dollars in late payment fees. They are always eager to claim loan payments were received late and charge “defaulters” hefty fees. Additionally, it is very common that my Chapter 13 bankruptcy clients get into a dispute with their mortgage company over missed payments. On a recent occasion, I had a client…Read more
How to build great credit – no matter your age!
While credit generally improves with age, everybody is different. Some people’s credit history improves steadily after years of faithful payments, while others watch their scores plummet with every medical bill sent to collections or missed rent. Then, there is another type of person: Maybe they never had to think much about their credit score because…Read more
How to Teach Your Children Good Financial Habits Today
When it comes to things like diet, sleep, and social interaction, most parents can stress the basics pretty easily: eat your vegetables, take your nap, and play nice with others. But there is, unfortunately, one thing that many parents forget to teach their children, maybe because they see it as too “big” a thing to…Read more
7 Ways to Make Sure You Pay Your Bills on Time
Mortgage payments, credit card bills, utility bills, and student loan bills – they pile up fast! Sometimes it may seem impossible to keep up. Remember, though: paying your monthly bills on time is the best way to take control of your financial life. Use the following suggestions to start making on-time bill payments a habit.…Read more
What should I expect from a bankruptcy hearing with creditors?
If you’re facing bankruptcy, you probably dread your day in court. Appearing in court is a widespread concern, but rest assured: a bankruptcy hearing usually is nothing like the intense courthouse dramas you see on TV. The whole affair often is straightforward. After filing your case, the Court will mail you a notice that contains…Read more