Consumer Blog

Are you a Florida renter being charged high “termination” or “liquidated damages” fees after moving out of your apartment? Many landlords illegally try to collect these charges—sometimes even when tenants followed the lease and gave proper notice. This blog post from Florida Consumer Lawyers explains what liquidated damages are, what Florida law requires landlords to do before charging them, and how renters can fight back if they’re wrongly billed or sent to collections. Learn how to protect yourself from illegal debt, fight unfair landlord practices, and defend your credit against unjust judgments, interest, and attorney fees.

Debt consolidation is almost always a scam. Companies end up charging you 30% of your total debt upfront and in most instances you end up paying 80-85% of your debt back over a long, slow time frame which destroys your credit. Bankruptcy is always a faster, cheaper option that gets you back in the game faster, and will be much better for your credit.

As 23andMe files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, many customers are concerned about the fate of their genetic data. With over 15 million saliva samples potentially at risk, it’s crucial for consumers, particularly in Florida, to take action to secure their privacy. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step approach: Delete Your Genetic Data: Log into your account, access the "Settings" section, and permanently delete your data after downloading it if desired. As 23andMe files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, many customers are concerned about the fate of their genetic data. With over 15 million saliva samples potentially at risk, it’s crucial for consumers, particularly in Florida, to take action to secure their privacy. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step approach: Delete Your Genetic Data: Log into your account, access the "Settings" section, and permanently delete your data after downloading it if desired. Destroy Your Physical Sample: Revoke permission for 23andMe to store your saliva sample via the "Preferences" section in account settings. Withdraw Research Consent: Remove consent for research use in the "Research and Product Consents" section. By following these steps, individuals can protect their genetic information and ensure it doesn't fall into the wrong hands during this uncertain period for the company.

Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) loans have become popular for interest-free purchases, but they aren't reported on credit scores, raising concerns about hidden debt. Apple's decision to report its BNPL loans to Experian marked a significant step, but other BNPL providers haven't followed suit. Credit bureaus argue that including these loans in credit reports would benefit consumers and lenders. However, BNPL providers worry about the negative impact on customers' credit scores due to the short-term nature of these loans. Some BNPL firms are exploring alternative reporting systems. Regulatory action is unlikely soon, but changes may come if the economy slows and more consumers miss payments.

Foreclosures in the U.S. rose in May 2024, particularly in Florida, according to ATTOM's latest report. There were 32,621 properties with foreclosure filings, a 3% increase from the previous month but a 7% decrease from a year ago. Florida led the nation in foreclosure starts, with one in every 2,638 housing units affected.

Credit scores play a crucial role in various aspects of life, from renting an apartment to securing a loan. A recent investigation highlighted ongoing issues with credit report accuracy, with many consumers finding errors that can negatively impact their financial opportunities. These errors often result from identity theft or reporting mistakes by companies. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is working to ensure that credit agencies correct these inaccuracies and improve their reporting practices. Consumers are advised to regularly check their credit reports, report any errors, and take steps like freezing their credit to protect against identity theft.

The article discusses a significant increase in severe delinquencies on credit card debt, reaching a 12-year high of 10.7% in the first quarter, up from 8.2% a year ago. Young adults, facing lower income and savings, are particularly affected. The Federal Reserve's interest rate hikes to combat inflation have made borrowing more expensive, impacting consumer spending. Despite optimistic Wall Street forecasts, retail spending stalled, indicating consumer fatigue. High inflation, costly borrowing, and economic slowdowns pose challenges for financial stability, especially among lower-income consumers vulnerable to job market changes.

Foreclosures on the rise again in Florida, what you need to know.

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has released a report highlighting ongoing issues with credit report accuracy. The CFPB found that consumer reporting companies and furnishers are failing to ensure accurate credit information, particularly for victims of identity theft and human trafficking. Errors include incorrect information being reported and failures to block or remove fraudulent data. The CFPB is pushing for corrective actions and has taken regulatory steps to improve the credit reporting system, including efforts to remove certain types of medical debt from credit reports.

A study by Consumer Reports and WorkMoney found that nearly half of participants who checked their credit reports discovered mistakes, with over a quarter finding serious errors related to debts. Many had trouble accessing their free credit reports online. These errors can harm credit scores and limit financial opportunities. Consumer Reports and WorkMoney urge credit bureaus to improve report accuracy, make reports easier to access, and enhance the dispute resolution process. They also recommend restricting the use of credit reports for non-credit-related purposes and limiting the reporting of medical debt.

Consumers are increasingly filing lawsuits to dispute information on their credit reports, driven by credit repair firms using social media. The number of complaints and lawsuits against banks, loan servicers, credit card issuers, and debt collectors has surged, particularly against the major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. This rise in litigation is partly due to increased scrutiny from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) on credit reporting inaccuracies. Credit repair companies and the use of credit score apps have contributed to this trend, as more people are checking and disputing their credit reports. The complexity of credit reporting systems and a high volume of disputes have led to errors, with many data furnishers outsourcing the dispute process. As a result, thorough investigations are often lacking. Litigation costs are rising, with some settlements reaching up to $50,000. The CFPB's focus on credit reporting accuracy and proposed changes to regulations may lead to even more litigation. Consumers are advised to regularly check their credit reports and address any errors to maintain good credit health.

Consumers should do regular "credit checkups" by accessing their free credit reports weekly. Complaints about credit report errors have doubled since 2021, affecting access to housing, jobs, and loans. The "Credit Checkup" project by Consumer Reports and WorkMoney encourages people to check for errors and report them to the CFPB. Accurate credit reports are crucial for financial health, influencing loan approvals and interest rates.

Florida Consumer Lawyers defeats Lark on 42nd in a trial for collection of illegal fees against tenant.

The article discusses the recent decline in personal bankruptcy filings during the pandemic, predicting a probable increase due to rising interest rates and reduced government relief. Experts highlight the emotional challenges associated with bankruptcy, emphasizing the importance of legal guidance. It outlines the steps involved in the bankruptcy process, with insights on the types of bankruptcy and their implications. Additionally, it offers post-bankruptcy advice, emphasizing the significance of responsible financial management and the potential for rebuilding credit. Despite the stigma, the article highlights bankruptcy as a chance for a fresh start and financial rehabilitation.

The article highlights the concerning rise of credit card debt in Florida, positioning the state as one of the top five states in the U.S. grappling with this financial burden. Forbes' analysis reveals that Florida ranks 9th in the country for states with the highest credit card debt, with an average debt of $3,940 per borrower, showing an 8.35% increase from the previous year. Despite the state's average total debt falling close to the national average, Florida's credit card debt relative to income and its delinquency rates remain troubling. While there is a slight improvement in the delinquency rate, Floridians are encouraged to stay informed about their financial rights and seek assistance from consumer law firms to navigate through these challenging financial times.

Foreclosure rates are growing across the United States, with a particular focus on the Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford metro area in Florida. It emphasizes the urgency of taking swift action upon receiving a pre-foreclosure notice, exploring available options, understanding legal rights, seeking legal assistance, and maintaining open communication with lenders. The article aims to equip readers with essential knowledge and practical steps to effectively defend their homes from foreclosure in Florida's challenging housing market.

Explore the rising trends in credit card debt among different generations, including Generation Z's increasing balances and Generation X's high debt levels. Discover the factors influencing these shifts and learn valuable tips for managing credit card debt in today's challenging economic landscape.

Discover the urgent impact of homeowners insurance withdrawals on the Florida housing market. Learn about the risks of foreclosure, the importance of foreclosure defense, and the need for policy reform. Homeowners must act swiftly to protect their properties amidst rising insurance costs and market uncertainty. Stay informed and take proactive measures to secure your homeownership in this critical time.

Discover the urgent rise in credit reporting problems, affecting consumers nationwide. Learn about the impact of inaccurate credit reporting, your rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, and the role of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and learn what Florida Consumer Lawyers can do for you. Take action to address errors in your credit report and safeguard your financial well-being in this critical time.

Westlake Portfolio Management has taken over the servicing of auto loans from US Auto Sales and we expect wrongful collections and wrongful credit reporting to occur in the next few months.

Discover the urgent state of the housing market in Florida, impacted by Hurricane Ian. Learn about the importance of foreclosure defense and how lawyers can protect homeowners' rights. Explore the market's recovery, rising insurance costs, and the resilience of home sales. Stay informed and safeguard your home in this critical time.