Consumer Blog

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.

Discover the urgent situation in the Florida housing market, where foreclosure risks loom large. Learn about the importance of foreclosure defense and the role of lawyers in protecting homeowners' rights. Act now to safeguard your home and navigate the challenging times ahead.

Discover the urgent changes in truck accident laws in Florida that could impact your rights as a victim. Learn about the recent legislation and how it may affect your ability to seek compensation. If you've been involved in a truck accident, it's crucial to understand these important updates.

The cost of living in the Florida s skyrocketing, and with it, the number of foreclosures. Learn why foreclosure rates are on the rise and how this could impact the housing market. If you're facing foreclosure, find out why hiring a foreclosure defense lawyer is crucial in protecting your rights and home.

Discover the alarming truth about the growing home affordability crisis in the United States. Rising mortgage rates, inflation, and stagnant wages are pushing homeowners to the edge of foreclosure. Explore potential solutions and learn how Florida Consumer Lawyers can provide representation and guidance in these challenging times.

Discover the latest findings from ATTOM's Q1 2023 U.S. Foreclosure Activity Report, revealing an alarming rise in foreclosure filings. Gain insights into the states with the highest rates, foreclosure starts, bank repossessions, and average foreclosure timelines. Florida Consumer

Enter the nightmarish world of zombie debt, where debts thought to be extinguished rise from the dead to torment unsuspecting consumers. Discover their terrifying impact on credit reports, and the heroic efforts of Florida Consumer Lawyers in battling these financial ghouls.

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau takes firm action against Portfolio Recovery Associates, one of the largest debt collectors, for repeated violations of the law. Discover the consequences faced by the company and how the CFPB strives to protect consumers from deceptive debt collection practices.

Debt collectors use terrifying tactics, but Florida Consumer Lawyers shows you how you can protect yourself from their abusive strategies. From the illegal "Circles" strategy to threatening legal action and imprisonment, debt collectors will stop at nothing to get what they claim is owed to them. Learn how Florida Consumer Lawyers can help you navigate the complex world of debt collection and protect your rights as a consumer. Don't suffer in silence – fight back against unscrupulous debt collectors today.

Florida homeowners are facing a frightening reality of increased foreclosure rates due to various issues, including availability and affordability. Read on to learn about the latest statistics and how a foreclosure lawyer can help you understand your options, negotiate with your lender, and fight for your rights in court. Contact a foreclosure lawyer to get the legal help you need to protect your home.

Debt collectors can be intimidating, but you don't have to be a victim of their harassment. Learn effective ways to deal with debt collectors and how contacting Florida Consumer Lawyers can help you fight against them.

The rise of foreclosure and eviction rates in the United States is a terrifying reality for many homeowners. Find out why it is crucial to seek the help of a foreclosure defense lawyer to fight for your home.

The Florida Senate has approved a bill that would allow consumer-finance loans to have interest rates as high as 36%. The bill aims to expand credit opportunities for consumers who currently resort to high-interest online loans. The proposed legislation aims to establish a uniform 36% maximum annual interest rate for all consumer-finance loans, and consumer-finance companies will face stricter regulations. Some argue that the bill will lead to predatory lending practices, while others argue that it will offer more options to borrowers who currently have limited options when it comes to borrowing money. The bill is now awaiting the signature of Gov. Ron DeSantis to become law.

Consumer credit card debt continues to climb at record rates with record high interest rates pushing consumers everywhere to the brink of bankruptcy.

Policyholders are facing difficulties, including fraud, in getting their insurance claims paid out for damages caused by Hurricane Ian, which hit Florida in 2022. Many policyholders have submitted claims for property damage and living expenses, but have received only partial payouts or no payouts at all. Some policyholders have accused their insurance companies of fraud, alleging that adjusters have tampered with their estimates to avoid paying out on valid claims. The article also mentions that a large number of claims remain unpaid or have been rejected, despite the 90-day deadline for insurance companies to pay or deny claims having passed.

A new report from the Urban Institute reveals that medical debt is a significant problem affecting more than one in seven nonelderly adults. The report shows that low-income families are most affected by medical debt, with nearly two-thirds of adults affected by past-due medical debt having incomes below 250 percent of the federal poverty line. Most of the past-due medical debt is owed to hospitals. Although many healthcare organizations offer financial assistance programs and payment plans to ease the burden of patient financial responsibility, lack of insurance and low income hinder the effectiveness of some collection strategies. The Urban Institute suggests that expanded access to hospital charity care and stronger consumer protections could complement coverage expansions and other efforts to mitigate the impact of unaffordable medical bills.

Total credit card debt has surged to a record $930.6 billion, causing concern that households may be nearing a breaking point. Delinquencies are already on the rise, and credit cards are one of the most expensive ways to borrow money, with APRs around 20%. Experts suggest reining in spending, paying off debt, and avoiding new debt. Zero percent balance transfer credit card offers and lower-interest personal loans are available options. Taking on a side hustle, selling unneeded items, and cutting expenses can also help pay down credit card debt.

Wage garnishment is when an employer has to take money out of an employee's paycheck to pay off a debt. This can happen if someone owes money for things like child support, taxes, student loans, or other debts. There are two types of garnishment: wage garnishment and non-wage garnishment. Non-wage garnishment is when a court orders a person's bank to take money out of their account. If an employer doesn't follow the law and take out the right amount of money, they can get in trouble and have to pay fines or even be taken to court. The amount of money that can be taken out of an employee's paycheck depends on how much they make and what they owe. It's important for employers to follow the rules and seek help from an attorney if needed.