Thomas R. Breeden, P.C.Thomas R. Breeden, P.C.2026-07-06T20:20:56Zhttps://www.tbreedenlaw.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1603831/2022/01/cropped-TBreeden-site-icon-32x32.pngOn Behalf of Thomas R. Breeden, P.C.<![CDATA[What Amazon’s $2.25M settlement reveals about the limits of government complaints]]>https://www.tbreedenlaw.com/?p=491592026-07-06T20:20:56Z2026-07-06T20:20:56ZIf identity thieves use your information to open accounts or make purchases, you expect the law to protect you. Unfortunately, securing the records necessary to clear your name can seem like an impossible battle. A recent federal case involving Amazon illustrates why relying on government regulations and federal agencies is often not enough to fix your credit history. Amazon recently agreed to pay a $2.25 million settlement to resolve federal allegations of mishandling identity theft claims. The Federal Trade Commission alleged that the retail giant violated the Fair Credit Reporting Act by delaying or denying transaction records to victims of fraud. Under federal law, businesses must provide these documents within 30 days of a request. Instead, Amazon reportedly forced victims into frustrating customer service loops. Some consumers even had to guess the names of the identity thieves before securing information.
The false security of government complaints
This case exposes a harsh reality for fraud victims. While the FTC can fine major corporations, it does not clean up individual credit reports. Many consumers mistakenly believe that filing a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau will resolve their issues. However, the CFPB primarily tracks corporate trends and logs complaints. The agency does not act as your personal advocate; a government complaint rarely forces a stubborn credit bureau or business to correct your file.When corporations such as Amazon use strategic barriers to block your access to records, the government will rarely fight back for you. Navigating these bureaucratic systems alone often leaves consumers trapped in the same loops that the FTC penalized Amazon for creating.
Why legal action beats bureaucracy
Resolving errors requires a strategic approach rather than a passive government complaint. Because government agencies will not personally repair your credit score, consumers must often take direct legal action to force accountability. If you notice fraudulent transactions, credit report errors or inaccurate background checks, you can take the following steps to protect yourself:
Send formal disputes: Mail written dispute letters directly to the credit bureaus and the reporting businesses to trigger your legal rights.
Document corporate roadblocks: Keep detailed records of every phone call, customer service interaction and denied request.
Partner with a consumer attorney: An attorney can file a lawsuit to force these corporations to correct your records and potentially recover damages for the harm you suffered.
At our firm, we protect consumers’ rights and help victims of fraud overcome the hurdles that corporations and government agencies ignore. We handle the complex paperwork and take back control of your credit and your future.]]>On Behalf of Thomas R. Breeden, P.C.<![CDATA[Protect your rights after a bank account hack]]>https://www.tbreedenlaw.com/?p=491542026-05-15T19:25:10Z2026-05-15T19:25:10ZDiscovering a hack or an unauthorized wire transfer in your bank account can make your stomach drop. When you report the fraud, most banks offer a standard solution: close the compromised account and open a new one. While this seems like a logical step, it often carries a hidden legal risk that could strip away your right to a day in court.
The arbitration trap
Many consumers established their bank accounts before mandatory arbitration clauses became standard. If your long-standing account becomes compromised, your original contract likely allows you to sue the bank to recover your stolen funds, if necessary.However, when you open a new account to replace the hacked one, the bank requires you to sign updated paperwork. These modern contracts almost always include broad arbitration provisions. These clauses often state that arbitration applies not only to the new account but also to any past or future disputes with the bank. By signing, you may accidentally waive your right to sue over the very theft that caused you to open the new account.
How to handle fraudulent transactions
We recommend taking specific steps to keep your legal options open:
Review the contracts: Carefully read any new documents the bank provides.
Negotiate the terms: Attempt to strike the arbitration clause before signing.
Switch banks: If the bank refuses to remove the arbitration requirement, consider moving your money to a different financial institution entirely.
Act quickly: You must dispute fraudulent transactions within 60 days to maximize your rights related to the loss.
A bank’s quick fix should not turn into a legal trap that silences your voice. Protecting your right to litigation is just as important as securing your remaining funds.
Safety starts with how you pay
For online shopping and daily transactions, you should generally use credit cards instead of debit cards. Under the Fair Credit Billing Act, credit cards offer substantially stronger protections for consumers. If an Amazon delivery is stolen or arrives broken and the retailer refuses a refund, you can dispute the charge with your credit card company. Debit cards do not have the same federal safeguards. In cases of theft, it is much harder to recover your money.
We fight for Northern Virginia consumers
At our Manassas office, we help victims of fraud and credit errors advocate for themselves when taking on these complex hurdles. If you are struggling with a bank that refuses to take responsibility for a hack or a credit report error, we can explain and uphold your rights. Do not let a bank’s fine print prevent you from seeking justice.]]>On Behalf of Thomas R. Breeden, P.C.<![CDATA[When a company’s glitch becomes your credit nightmare]]>https://www.tbreedenlaw.com/?p=491522026-03-18T14:02:54Z2026-04-21T13:53:36ZThe damage is not just a late fee
When a company unilaterally cancels your autopay without notice, the consequences are more than just a minor inconvenience. A single reported late payment can:
Tank your credit score by dozens of points
Increase interest rates on future loans or existing credit cards
Jeopardize housing applications or employment background checks
It is fundamentally unfair for a corporation to provide you with an autopay service and break that service through their own negligence. You should not have to pay for their mistake by taking a hit to your credit report. Additionally, under Virginia’s Consumer Protection Act, companies have to notify consumers of material changes.
Holding them accountable: Your legal recourse
It is important to understand that if a company’s mistake has affected your credit report, you are not powerless. If you have been victimized by an autopay cancellation you didn’t initiate, there are several legal avenues that exist to set the record straight:
The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA): If a company reports inaccurate information to credit bureaus, they are legally obligated to correct it. This includes missed payments that were caused by their own billing failures. If they refuse to fix the error after a formal dispute, you may have grounds for a federal lawsuit.
Virginia Consumer Protection Act (VCPA): In Virginia, companies are prohibited from using unfair or deceptive practices. Failing to notify a consumer of a material change to their payment arrangement, and then seeking to collect fees or damage credit based on that failure, can fall under this protection.
Breach of Contract: When you enroll in autopay, you enter an agreement. If the company fails to execute that agreement through no fault of your own, they may be in breach of their service contract.
Don’t pay for their mistake
If you have proof that your autopay was properly configured and the company disabled it without warning, they should be held responsible for your damaged credit. You have the right to a clean financial record and an accurate credit report.
At [nap_names id="FIRM-NAME-1"], we protect consumers in Manassas and throughout Northern Virginia who face unfair treatment from large corporations. We can help you fight back against unfair damage to your credit report.]]>On Behalf of Thomas R. Breeden, P.C.<![CDATA[What are your rights when a car fails to meet safety standards?]]>https://www.tbreedenlaw.com/?p=491512026-03-05T13:55:38Z2026-03-18T12:53:58ZFitch v. Phantom Auto Group, LLC. Together with the Virginia Consumer Protection Act, these rulings clarify that motor vehicle safety inspectors are legally liable for passing cars that should have failed.
Holding inspectors and dealers accountable
The law requires a thorough check of the frame, brakes, steering, lights and tires. If an inspector ignores a dangerous problem, they are responsible for that negligence. However, the inspector might not be the only one at fault.
We also look at the role of the car dealer. A dealer may face liability if we can prove they had reason to know the safety inspection was inaccurate. They are also responsible if they made affirmative misrepresentations about the car. For example, in a recent case, a dealer concealed that the entire exhaust system had been removed from the vehicle, rendering it illegal to drive on the streets.
Signs of a fraudulent inspection
You should stay alert for red flags after a vehicle purchase. Watch for these common issues that might indicate a bad inspection:
Warning lights appear on your dashboard immediately after purchase
The brakes squeal or feel soft when you press the pedal
Tires have uneven wear or very little tread left
Frames show signs of heavy rust or previous structural damage
Lights or signals do not function correctly
What you should do next
If you discover your new car is unsafe, take action quickly. First, do not continue to drive a vehicle that puts your life at risk. Keep all of your sales documents, including any advertisements that claimed the car was "fully inspected" or "safe." These records are vital evidence. We also recommend taking the car to an independent, trusted mechanic. Ask them to perform a fresh inspection and document every safety failure they find and photograph everything.
Do not have them make repairs at this point, as this would alter the condition of the vehicle and prevent you from enforcing your rights. Instead, you should contact the Virginia State Police to request a vehicle safety division officer examine your vehicle. Upon confirmation, contact a consumer protection attorney with experience pursuing claims against dealers and safety inspectors.
Get help protecting your consumer rights
At [nap_names id="FIRM-NAME-1"], we help consumers in Northern Virginia hold these shops and dealers accountable for their actions. You deserve a vehicle that meets Virginia safety standards. You can contact our office in Manassas to discuss your situation and learn how we can protect your rights.]]>On Behalf of Thomas R. Breeden, P.C.<![CDATA[What can you do if your Amazon package or other delivery gets stolen or arrives broken?]]>https://www.tbreedenlaw.com/?p=491462026-03-20T21:18:23Z2026-02-18T18:39:38ZUse your credit card for better protection
When you shop online, your method of payment matters. At [nap_names id="FIRM-NAME-1"], we recommend using a credit card rather than a debit card for these transactions. Credit cards currently offer more robust protections for consumers. If a retailer refuses to help you with a stolen or broken item, using your credit card gives you a powerful tool at your disposal.
The Fair Credit Billing Act allows you to dispute charges for goods that were never delivered or arrived damaged. When you use a debit card, the money leaves your bank account immediately. Recovering those funds is much more challenging. With a credit card, you can often withhold payment for the disputed amount while the bank investigates.
Act quickly to secure your refund
Timing is everything when it comes to protecting your consumer rights. You must file a claim with your credit card company within 60 days of the first bill showing the transaction. If you wait too long, you will lose many of the protections of the act – although you would still not be liable for unauthorized charges over $50. We suggest checking your statements frequently to catch these issues early.
Retailers sometimes try to push the blame onto the delivery service or the customer. You do not have to accept a loss for a product you never received, or did not receive in good condition. Taking these steps helps ensure your credit history stays clean and your bank account stays protected.
How can a Virginia consumer protection attorney help?
If you are dealing with a company that ignores your rights, we can guide you through the process. At [nap_names id="FIRM-NAME-1"], we help people across northern Virginia hold retailers and credit companies accountable. You deserve to receive what you paid for without a legal headache.]]>On Behalf of Thomas R. Breeden, P.C.<![CDATA[How can Virginia tenants keep their landlords accountable?]]>https://www.tbreedenlaw.com/?p=491452026-01-12T18:38:10Z2026-01-15T18:20:24ZUnderstanding emergency repairs in Virginia
Virginia law provides clear standards for maintaining a rental unit. The Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA) requires landlords to keep a property in a habitable condition. Generally, a landlord has 30 days to address a "reasonable presumption for an emergency" regarding a rental issue.
However, context matters significantly when defining an emergency. What qualifies as an urgent hazard? Common examples include:
Lack of heat during the winter months
No air conditioning during extreme summer heat
Active water leaks or flooding
Visible mold growth
Fire hazards or faulty electrical wiring
Dangerous conditions in hallways or common areas
If you face any of these urgent conditions, your landlord must act quickly. You should not have to live in a unit that poses a risk to you or your family.
Steps to protect your rights
Being proactive is the best way to build a strong case if a dispute arises. You can take several practical steps to hold your landlord accountable. These include:
Know your lease: Read and familiarize yourself with every page of your rental agreement. Know exactly what your landlord agreed to cover and what your specific responsibilities are.
Know your statutory rights under the VRLTA: Virginia provides strong protection for tenant rights in its Residential Landlord Tenant Act. Being familiar with your rights as a tenant can help you recognize when your rights have been violated.
Keep everything in writing: Avoid making verbal requests over the phone or in person. Use email or text messages so that you always have a dated digital trail.
Document the evidence: Take photos and videos of the damage. Ensure your device includes the date and time on the files.
Follow up after repairs: Once a maintenance worker finishes a job, inspect the work immediately. If the problem persists, send another written notice right away.
Take action today
Many tenants feel powerless when a large management company ignores them. When it comes to landlord and tenant disputes, we represent people in Manassas and throughout northern Virginia who need a voice. You have the right to a functional home. If your landlord refuses to make necessary repairs or ignores your emergency requests, you may have legal options.
Do not wait until a small leak becomes a major safety hazard. By staying organized and knowing the law, you can protect your living space and your peace of mind.]]>On Behalf of Thomas R. Breeden, P.C.<![CDATA[Is old debt haunting your credit report? What you need to know about illegal reaged debt.]]>https://www.tbreedenlaw.com/?p=491382025-12-02T20:00:17Z2025-12-10T15:00:56ZThe truth about reporting time limits
The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) strictly limits how long most negative information can stay on your credit report. It can only stay on your credit report for seven years from the date of the first delinquency. For nearly all collection accounts and late payments, the date of first delinquency is the date of your first missed payment that ultimately led to a delinquency. It should never change, even if a debt is sold to a different collection agency.
When a creditor "reages" the debt, they are essentially resetting that seven-year clock by reporting a newer date of first delinquency. They do this to make the old debt appear fresh and keep it on your report longer. This artificially damages your credit score and gives them illegal leverage to continue collection efforts. They hope you'll pay just to get the inaccurate item removed.
How can you prevent a creditor from reaging your debt?
Regularly reviewing and checking your credit history is the single best way to protect yourself from errors like reaged debt. We urge you to review your reports to ensure old debts are not staying on your file longer than legally required.
To look for reaged debt, you can:
Access your free reports: Every consumer can get a free copy of their credit report once a week from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) by visiting AnnualCreditReport.com. There is no need to purchase the report from the credit bureaus. In fact, you should avoid purchasing the report or score from any of the three credit bureaus. You only need the free credit report.
Check the dates: Look closely at any negative accounts, like collections or charge-offs. Verify the "Date of First Delinquency." If that date is older than seven years, or if you suspect it has been manipulated to be more recent, you may have a reaged debt case.
Finding your score: While you can get your full reports at AnnualCreditReport.com, many credit card companies, banks and financial websites offer your credit score for free as a regular service.
Consumer protection against illegally reaged debt
If you discover an illegally reaged debt or any other errors on your credit report, you don't have to deal with the problematic creditor alone. An experienced consumer protection lawyer can help you correct credit report errors, get the debt removed from your credit report and take swift action against the creditor who violated your rights. At [nap_names id="FIRM-NAME-1"], we represent victims of fraud and work hard to protect consumers against unfair collection and reporting practices.
If a collector or credit reporting agency has broken the rules, we are ready to hold them accountable. Contact our Manassas office today to schedule a consultation.]]>On Behalf of Thomas R. Breeden, P.C.<![CDATA[Why should you use credit cards instead of debit cards for daily purchases?]]>https://www.tbreedenlaw.com/?p=491242025-11-26T23:50:54Z2025-10-16T12:14:56ZCredit cards prevent direct access to your bank account
Credit cards offer superior fraud protection compared to debit cards, because credit cards offer a layer of protection between your bank account and the transaction. When you use a debit card, you're giving thieves direct access to your bank account if your card information is compromised. This means that hackers can drain your account, leaving you with little to no funds.
However, when you use a credit card your personal bank account remains separate from the transaction. If your credit card information is stolen or compromised, the thief does not have direct access to your funds. Instead, the credit card company’s funds are at risk.
There are legal protections when using credit cards
The Fair Credit Billing Act (FCBA) and the Electronic Funds Transfer Act (EFTA) provide legal protections for consumers who use credit cards. These acts ensure that you're not held liable for unauthorized transactions and provide a process for disputing charges. With debit cards, you're not afforded the same level of protection, making it more difficult to recover stolen funds.
Credit cards offer dispute resolution options
Credit card companies typically offer robust dispute resolution processes. If you identify a fraudulent charge you can dispute it and the credit card company will investigate. During the investigation you are not responsible for paying the disputed amount.
Building your credit history
Responsible credit card use helps build a positive credit history. When you build a positive credit history, you will have better options for loans, mortgages and other financial products, sometimes at lower interest rates.
Reward programs and incentives
Many credit cards offer rewards programs such as cash back points or travel miles. These rewards can provide significant savings and benefits over time. Depending on the credit card company, some credit cards may also provide travel insurance, concierge services and other perks that can enhance your travel experience.
Take control of your finances
In today's digital age, it's more important than ever to prioritize your financial safety. By using credit cards for your daily purchases, you're taking a proactive step in protecting your bank account and personal finances.
Credit cards offer a level of protection and benefits that debit cards simply can't match. The enhanced fraud protection dispute resolution processes and additional benefits of credit cards make them the smarter choice for everyday purchases.
An experienced consumer protection attorney can help you prioritize your financial safety, help you if are the victim of identity theft and advocate on your behalf for your consumer rights under state and federal laws.]]>On Behalf of Thomas R. Breeden, P.C.<![CDATA[Inappropriate billing: When credit card companies bill individuals for business expenses]]>https://www.tbreedenlaw.com/?p=491222025-06-26T14:11:19Z2025-09-16T14:10:37ZWhen a business closes or struggles to pay its bills, Virginia business owners and employees who were authorized users of the company credit cards could find themselves in financial trouble. Sometimes, credit card companies try to make any authorized users responsible by placing derogatory information on their credit reports, adding confusion and frustration to an already challenging situation. Understanding your rights and the steps you can take can help you resolve these inappropriate billing situations.
The problem: Unauthorized charges on the owner’s personal accounts
When a company credit card is issued, the expectation is clear: the business is responsible for its expenses. If a credit card company has a personal guarantee from the owner, they can still hold the owner liable, even if the business closes. However, in situations where there is no personal guarantee, oftentimes, credit card companies may still try to place the charges on the owner’s credit card. In addition, they sometimes place derogatory information on the business owner’s credit profile.
The problem: Derogatory credit information on employee accounts who were authorized users
It is not uncommon for a business to have several authorized users who are allowed to use the company credit cards. When a business goes under, sometimes, credit card companies try to hold the authorized users responsible for the company’s unpaid debt. It is not uncommon for a credit card company to place derogatory information on an employee’s credit report, simply because they were an authorized user of the credit card. However, an authorized user is not responsible for payment of the business debt, unless they agreed, in writing, to be responsible.
Applicable consumer protection laws
It's important to recognize that such practices violate several consumer protection laws designed to safeguard your rights. These laws ensure that individuals are not held liable for debts that rightfully belong to a business. Key protections include:
Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA): The FCRA protects consumers from companies inaccurately reporting derogatory credit information on an individual’s credit profile.
Fair Credit Billing Act (FCBA):The FCBA protects consumers from unfair billing practices and provides a mechanism for addressing billing errors.
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) guidelines:The CFPB guidelines offer additional protection and resources for disputing unauthorized charges.
Understanding the laws that are designed to protect individuals from unfair credit card billing practices can empower you to take the necessary steps to rectify inappropriate billing situations.
What steps can you take if you are incorrectly billed?
If you find yourself facing unauthorized charges on a company credit card, it is important to take steps to rectify the situation. Some steps you can take include:
Review your credit agreement: Make sure that you understand the terms and conditions of your credit agreement, especially regarding personal guarantees and liability.
Contact the credit card company: Reach out to both the issuer and the credit reporting agencies to dispute the charges. Provide documentation to support your claim, such as billing statements showing the card was billed to the business, payment records and records showing that you were only an employee/authorized user (if applicable).
File a complaint: If the credit card company is unresponsive, consider filing a complaint with the CFPB or the Virginia Attorney General’s office.
Monitor your credit report: Regularly check your credit report for any discrepancies that might arise from unauthorized billing. This can help you catch and address issues early. Make sure you promptly dispute, in writing and with backup documentation, any inaccurate credit reporting.
In addition, it can help to seek legal guidance. Consulting an experienced consumer rights attorney can help you understand your rights. An attorney can also take appropriate action on your behalf.
Take decisive action: Resolve unfair credit card bills
When you better understand how credit card companies can push the limits by automatically charging business owners, it is easier to see when mistakes are made. Understanding inappropriate billing practices can help you take the necessary steps to protect your rights and effectively resolve unauthorized charges. In addition, an experienced consumer protection lawyer can provide legal guidance and advice to help you resolve these frustrating situations.
]]>On Behalf of Thomas R. Breeden, P.C.<![CDATA[Give your loved ones a head start: Add them to your credit cards]]>https://www.tbreedenlaw.com/?p=491232025-07-25T21:27:36Z2025-08-19T14:13:43ZIn today’s marketplace, a good credit rating is essential. But how is it possible to get a good credit rating, if you are new to the marketplace and haven’t had a chance to earn it yet?
In other words, how can parents help their children establish themselves with good credit as they turn 18? Adding them to your existing credit card while they are still living at home can help kids learn about responsible credit management and also begin to build their credit score before they leave the house.
Why credit scores matter
Your credit score is a three-digit number that represents your creditworthiness to lenders. It affects your ability to get loans, rent an apartment and even secure certain jobs. A good credit score can save you thousands of dollars in interest payments over the life of a loan, and can get you a better insurance rate. A strong credit history opens doors while a poor one can hold you back. You can check your credit score for free on websites like AnnualCreditReport.com, CreditKarma.com or CreditSesame.com.
The benefits of adding an authorized user
Adding someone as an authorized user involves adding a family member to your existing credit card account. This allows them to benefit from your positive credit history. Adding someone as an authorized user provides some key advantages, including:
Jumpstarts credit history: For young adults or those with limited credit adding them as a co-signer can quickly establish a credit history.
Improves credit score: As the co-signer uses the card responsibly their payment behavior is reported to credit bureaus helping to build their credit score.
Financial education: Co-signing provides an opportunity to teach family members about responsible credit card usage, budgeting and the importance of timely payments.
How to use credit responsibly
While adding an authorized user can be beneficial, it is important to approach it with caution. The biggest concern is that if you make someone an authorized user, you are liable for any charges they place on your account, and if you are relying on them to pay the credit card company directly, you are putting your own credit at risk if they fail to timely pay the bills. Thus, use caution and only take this step if you are 100% certain that they will not abuse the privilege. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth process:
Take advantage of alerts and spending limits: Some credit card companies will send a notification when spending on the additional card reaches a specified amount. On some cards, you can also set a maximum spending limit for each billing cycle.
Open a secondary card: Consider opening a secondary credit card with a lower credit limit for the authorized user. This reduces the risk of overspending and potential debt. This would be instead of having them as an authorized user on your primary card, but would rather entail you co-signing an account with them. This would provide a more limited credit boost.
Discuss expectations: Have an open conversation with the authorized user about responsible spending habits the importance of paying on time and the consequences of missed payments.
Monitor the account: Regularly review the credit card statements and track the authorized user’s spending. This helps you stay informed and address any issues promptly.
Adding an authorized user: Important considerations
It is important to remember that as the main account holder you are ultimately responsible for the card’s balance. The authorized user’s actions directly impact your own credit score. If they fail to make payments it will negatively affect your credit rating. Before adding someone to your account, understand the implications of adding them and ensure that you trust them completely to honor their obligations. Also, be aware that if the authorized user mismanages the card it could strain your relationship and lead to financial difficulties. If you ever have concerns about credit card billing errors or fraudulent charges, an experienced consumer protection attorney can help.Adding someone as an authorized user to your credit card can be a generous way to help a loved one build credit. By understanding the benefits risks and responsible practices you can make an informed decision that benefits everyone involved.
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