Credit card debt has a way of slowly accumulating over time. People who can't pay their balances in full every month may send only the minimum payment while what they owe slowly builds due to spending, interest and even fees assessed by the credit card company. The...
Credit Card Debt
How can credit counseling help my finances?
If you are considering filing for bankruptcy, you may be in need of credit counseling. Through this process, you may gain valuable insights and strategies for managing your money. Whether you are grappling with credit card bills, medical expenses or other debts, a...
Debt has hit hard for some in Missouri
In Missouri and across the country, many people are struggling financially. Various issues, such as loss of income, injury-induced disabilities or unexpected repairs have made it difficult for some families to make ends meet. For some, their debt seems to have no end...
Protecting yourself when credit card debt is in collections
Credit cards are a part of life for Missouri consumers, but you may find yourself in a place where you rely on that little plastic rectangle for everything from daily purchases to emergency expenses. Perhaps you lost your job, or maybe you are unable to pay for the...
Phony debt collectors are on the prowl this tax season
Tax season is the time of year when debt collection scams peak and countless individuals are duped out of their hard-earned money. While phony debt collectors are nothing new, this year seems to be particularly troublesome with scams hitting unprecedented numbers....
A checklist for dealing with overwhelming debt
Debt is stressful, especially when you are behind on payments. Worse yet, debt collectors may start sending relentless letters and calls. It can feel like giving up is the best answer. There are strategies to pay down overwhelming debt even when it appears impossible....
But they can’t do that: What can—and can’t–debt collectors do?
Years ago, in the 1970s, our federal government codified the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). The idea was to help consumers who had outstanding bills avoid harassing or bullying tactics from collection agencies trying to obtain payment.Where before,...