Credit Repair and Debt

Why We Debt
Girl, Get Your Credit Straight!: A Sister's Guide to Ditching Your Debt, Mending Your Credit, and Building a Strong Financial Future
by Glinda Bridgforth
Is 'retail therapy' your favorite pastime - even though you really can't afford it? Do you ignore the balance on your credit card statements, vowing to pay them off at some point down the line? Is your debt preventing you from living your dreams

Debt Collection and Your Rights
by FTC
Answers commonly asked questions about your rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, which requires that debt collectors treat you fairly and prohibits certain methods of debt collection.

Resolving Billing Errors on Your Credit Card Accounts
by FTC
The Fair Credit Billing Act establishes procedures for resolving billing errors on your credit card accounts. Includes sample dispute letter. Have you ever been billed for merchandise you returned or never received?

Are You On Debt Management Plan? Things You Must Do
by FTC
Lists must-dos for anyone with a Debt Management Plan, and the steps to take if the credit counselor handling your DMP has gone out of business. Also offers a list of questions to ask when choosing a credit counselor.

Reverse Mortgage Facts
by FTC
Whether seeking money to finance a home improvement, pay off a current mortgage, supplement their retirement income, or pay for healthcare expenses, many older Americans are turning to reverse mortgages.

Choosing a Credit Counselor
by FTC
Defines debt repayment plans, explains the differences between secured and unsecured debt, and offers questions to ask credit counseling agencies if you consider using their services. Living paycheck to paycheck? Worried about debt collectors?

Your Debts and Debt Collectors, Solving Your Credit Problems
by FTC
It is important to check credit billing and electronic fund transfer account statements regularly because these documents may contain mistakes that could damage your credit status or reflect improper charges or transfers.

Common Secured Credit Cards Scams
by FTC
The ads may offer unsecured credit cards, secured credit cards, or not specify a card type. The ads usually lead you to believe you can get a card simply by calling the number listed. Sometimes the number is not toll-free.

Credit Problems and Your Consumer Rights
by FTC
A good credit rating is very important. Businesses inspect your credit history when they evaluate your applications for credit, insurance, employment, and even leases. They can use it when they choose to give or deny you credit or insurance, provided you

Need a Loan? Think Twice About Using Your Home as Collateral
by FTC
If you need money to pay bills or make home improvements, and think the answer is in refinancing, a second mortgage, or a home equity loan, consider your options carefully. If you can't make the required payments, you could lose your home

Looking for Credit? Be Wary of Some Gold and Platinum Cards
by FTC
If you're looking for credit, be wary of some 'gold' or 'platinum' card offers promising to get you credit cards or improve your credit rating. Lists tip-offs to rip-offs. While sounding like general-purpose credit cards, some 'gold' or 'platinum' cards