If a creditor or debt collector uses coercion, harassment, profanity or threats to try to get someone to pay a debt, the alleged debtor has rights under the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). Since Congress passed this law, debt collection is no...
When you suspect someone has stolen your personal identifying information like your Social Security number (SSN), driver’s license number, date of birth and other similar data, you may feel angry, fearful or distraught. In our last post, we described ways to identify...
In this fast-paced, digital world it gets easier and easier for people with bad motives to steal your personal identifying information and use it for their own, illegal activities to your financial detriment. Identity theft is no joke – your life can feel ruined when...
Many Virginians have experienced financial stress during the current health emergency. For renters, financial problems can quickly put them at risk of eviction for late rent, and for some landlords and property owners, loss of rental income can make it difficult to...
Excessive mold can be a nightmare in a home or apartment. Once you can see or smell mold, you probably have a problem, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While people have different physical responses to molds, the fungus can cause many...
These are financially challenging times for many people affected by our serious economic downturn. People are losing jobs or working reduced hours, businesses are closing or struggling, and illness is impacting families. For these reasons and more, many Virginians are...
Many vehicle dealerships are upstanding and honest, but unfortunately, some are not and will not hesitate to take advantage of consumers in weak positions to question wrongful sales tactics. A common scam that can cause major legal trouble – and harm credit...
Financial difficulties are often part of divorce, even to the extent that one or both parties are considering filing for bankruptcy. The timing of both legal proceedings - the divorce in Virginia state court and the federal bankruptcy - can impact the financial...
While some think the only way out of serious debt is through bankruptcy, several other options may be available that could bring enough financial relief to get through it to a healthier financial place. While consumer or reorganization bankruptcy is a good option...
It can be confusing – even threatening – when a student loan borrower gets a collection notice that their wages will be garnished to repay the educational loan. Anyone who receives such a garnishment notice – which would mean their employer might be...
