When the phone rings and it is a debt collector, the conversation can quickly become uncomfortable. What happens when their language turns abusive or profane? No one should have to endure verbal abuse, especially when already confronting financial challenges. The law...
Collections Defense
Are debtors calling your neighbors? Take action now
Debt collectors frequently resort to aggressive measures to reach debtors, but calling your neighbors is a new low. It is a violation of your privacy and a threat to your relationships with those around you. If this is happening to you, it is crucial to take action....
Can creditors take my Social Security benefits?
Many people in Chicago rely on Social Security benefits to make ends meet. If you are facing debt collection, you might worry about your benefits being taken. The good news is that in most cases, regular debt collectors cannot take your Social Security benefits,...
Can debt collectors tell my employers about my debt?
A debt collector’s hounding can be stressful enough, but what happens when they begin to call your workplace? In Illinois, there are restrictions on how debt collectors can contact you, including calling your employers. Are debt collectors allowed to call my...
What are the risks of ignoring debt collectors?
Debt accumulates for any number of reasons: medical expenses, unexpected job loss or simply the increasing cost of living. These financial burdens can gradually balloon a debt into an overwhelming amount. As creditors ramp up their collection efforts, the stress of...
Watch out for creditors asking you to pay debts you don’t owe
You may owe a debt to creditors. Some of it you have paid off, but the majority you're working hard to eradicate. Unfortunately, there are times when creditors might ask you to pay off more money than you recognize. That's a sign they are resorting to deceptive...
Getting out of the debt spiral
There could be hundreds of reasons why people end up in debt. It could be for education, housing, medical needs, emergencies or simply to get by daily. Sometimes, your small debts can accumulate over time, and without you knowing, you are already in a debt spiral. A...
Why the CFPB is going after medical debt collectors
Many Americans living in Illinois have medical debt that they struggle to repay. In many cases, outstanding debt balances are reported to credit bureaus, which can wreak havoc with their credit scores and creditworthiness. However, the Consumer Financial Protection...
Debt collection FAQs for Illinois residents
Are you an Illinois resident constantly getting phone calls from debt collectors? Debt collectors are allowed to call in an attempt to collect a debt. However, there are some practices that debt collectors are supposed to avoid. Learning more about the legalities of...
Tips for avoiding consumer fraud
Residents of Illinois might be targeted for consumer fraud. Whenever you click on a link, visit a website or leave a computer unattended, you could be giving unscrupulous individuals access to your personal information. However, there are ways that you can protect...