FAQ Hub
A curated cross-section of the most valuable questions from across the site, organized by topic. Each links to its source page for the fuller answer.
Debt Relief Basics
Is debt settlement bad for my credit?
It typically causes a temporary drop, since accounts are settled for less than owed rather than paid in full. More →
How much does debt relief cost?
Costs vary significantly by option — settlement programs typically charge a percentage of enrolled debt, while consolidation loans have interest and possible origination fees. More →
Bankruptcy
What's the difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13?
Chapter 7 liquidates non-exempt assets and discharges debt in months; Chapter 13 restructures payments over 3-5 years. More →
How long does bankruptcy stay on my credit report?
Chapter 7 stays up to 10 years; Chapter 13 typically 7 years from filing. More →
Debt Collection & Lawsuits
What happens if I ignore a debt lawsuit?
You risk a default judgment being entered against you automatically, which can lead to wage garnishment or a bank levy. More →
Can a debt collector call me at work?
Generally no, if you tell them your employer prohibits it — this is a specific FDCPA protection. More →
Wage Garnishment & Bank Levies
How much of my paycheck can be garnished?
Federal law caps it, though some states set a lower (more protective) limit — see our state-specific guides for exact figures. More →
Can my bank account be frozen?
Yes, if a creditor obtains a judgment and levies your account, or in certain cases involving IRS tax debt. More →
Credit & Consumer Rights
How do I dispute an error on my credit report?
File a dispute directly with the credit bureau reporting the error, under rights guaranteed by the FCRA. More →
What should I do if I suspect identity theft?
Report it at IdentityTheft.gov immediately and place a fraud alert or credit freeze with the credit bureaus. More →