The lawsuit filed by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) against Level One Law, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, et al. v. StratFS, LLC (f/k/a Strategic Financial Solutions, LLC, et al., Case No. 1:24-CV-00040-EAW-MJR), has sent shockwaves through the legal industry. The allegations against Level One Law or StratFS, LLC raise serious concerns for their clients.
Understanding the Allegations
The CFPB alleges that Level One Law engaged in deceptive and unfair practices, including:
False advertising
Excessive fees
Failing to disclose risks
Why Choose National Legal Center?
At National Legal Center, we prioritize transparency, ethical conduct, and client satisfaction. Our team of experienced attorneys is dedicated to providing personalized legal services tailored to your unique needs. Here’s how we differ from Level One Law:
Client-Centric Approach: We believe in building strong relationships with our clients based on trust and open communication.
Ethical Practices: We adhere to the highest ethical standards and prioritize your best interests. Our attorneys are trained to tell you the whole truth. If this isn’t the best fit for you we will help get you in the direction you need to go. We are an open book about the pros and cons of a debt resolution.
Transparent Communication: We keep you informed throughout the entire legal process, ensuring you understand your options and the potential outcomes.
Personalized Solutions: We tailor our services to your specific situation, providing customized advice and strategies.
Don’t Let Legal Issues Hold You Back.
If you’re currently a Level One Law client, it’s important to understand the potential risks associated with the ongoing lawsuit.
Once you started falling behind on your debts a clock started that will not stop just because the service you hired was sued. If you have defaulted debts that are still collectable, you may have risk. Reach out to our firm to see if we would be a good fit for you.
Contact us today for a consultation and let us help you navigate your legal challenges with confidence.
Is Debt Resolution your Solution?
Maybe. But no one can accurately answer that question without more information.
Downsides to Debt Resolution: Falling behind on your debts will hurt your credit. Not paying on debts means that a creditor could file a lawsuit against you. Not all creditors will settle all of the time. If you can pay off your debt and plan to continue to be able to do so, then stay current and do it.
The right fit for Debt Resolution Legal Services would be someone who isn’t able to keep paying everything in full on time. If your credit is already shot and you need a plan to manage the situation and minimize risk we may be the best fit.
Do your research first, read reviews. I like reading the lowest score reviews first when I am trying to assess a business.
No one knows exactly what will happen in the future. Learn what you can about all your options.
Be a skeptical consumer. If someone is promising to make your debt disappear for next to nothing, run away. Honesty is not a swift sales pitch.
Want to learn more about Debt Resolution? Contact National Legal Center today!
Schedule a Free Consultation with National Legal Center
Complete this form to schedule your free consultation.
The new martyrs of Valentine’s Day are socially distant everyday Americans. Few social situations can make people feel as vulnerable as dating. In addition to the usual clothing decisions and the planning of your profile pic angle, now you also need to be on the lookout for romance scammers.
The internet is a blessing that can keep far–away families in touch. It gives you the ability to order whatever you want and have it shipped to your door. The internet has made it possible for people to post publicly whatever opinion they may have or meal they recently ate. Dating can now be as easy as uploading a picture to an app and waiting for someone to like it. Trouble is, that while the internet is famous for connecting people, it is also known for allowing individuals to lie about themselves.
Even during the internet’s early days of dial up modems and AOL chat rooms, people have been reinventing themselves online. Maybe the dreamy person to whom you’ve bared your soul is truly who they say they are or perhaps instead they could be someone who connects with tons of people daily, building rapport in an effort to get money from anyone that trusts them.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has announced that, in 2019, romance scams were the costliest scams reported. Over $201,000,000 was lost and reported to the FTC due to romance scams. Oftentimes, these people find their victims online through dating sites, lull them into a gullible position by communicating with them frequently and then migrate the conversations away from the dating site to more private emails or text messages.
As thrilling as it may be for a stranger to profess love for you, the more quickly it happens, the more likely someone may be running a scam. Once a target is hooked, theseswindlers usually claim they need money for anything from an emergency or hospital bills to gambling debt. They may even try to get you to volunteer the money by hinting that they’d love to meet but can’t afford the travel expenses. If you are considering whatever investment a potential date is asking for, please be mindful of how they want the money. Gift cards and wire transfers are the preferred way for scammers to get money because transactions like that are hard to trace and usually final. Avoid these methods at all costs.
Wanting to be cared for is not a weakness. Continuing to try, with caution, requires confidence and strength. Don’t stop putting yourself out there, virtually anyway. Just take that extra precaution of reverse image searching profile picturesand be waryof those new friends that can’t or won’t meet you in person after an extended amount of time. And if anyone ever wants you to buy gift cards or wire money to them, stop communicating with them immediately. Romance novels are also a pleasant escape and quite a bit cheaper!
A State-Specific 4th Stimulus Check Is Coming – Will You Get One?
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve seen significant assistance and relief offered by federal, state, and local governments. Some stimulus checks have been delivered broadly and to large groups of people, while others were issued based on income or need. So, we’ve all been wondering – will there be a fourth stimulus check?
The federal government has issued several stimulus checks to help citizens throughout the pandemic. With the current inflation rate in the United States at its highest since the 1980s, it’s only natural that everyone is curiously awaiting the fourth stimulus check release date.
While there won’t likely be federal stimulus payments in 2022, we can all use some extra money. If you live in specific states, a fourth stimulus check is coming. This time, economic impact payments will hit bank accounts thanks to state and city stimulus payments.
Read on to find out which cities and states are issuing stimulus checks and if you are eligible for one.
A Look at the First Three Rounds of Stimulus Payments
To help low and medium-income citizens through this crisis, the federal government has distributed large swaths of stimulus checks to eligible adults three times to date.
On March 11, 2021, the American Rescue Plan passed. $195 billion was given to 50 states, i.e., approximately $500 million for each state. The states have until 2024 to decide what they want to do with the money and until 2026 to spend it.
To provide direct assistance, the federal government distributed the first stimulus check of $1,200 in April 2020 for individuals, $2,400 for married couples, and an additional $500 per child under 17.
The second stimulus check of $600—plus an additional $600 for each dependent aged 16 and under—was distributed in December 2020.
Finally, the third stimulus check was sent in March 2021 as an advance payment of the tax year 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit. Along with this, many Americans received a child tax credit—and an advanced child tax credit— which allowed the IRS to deliver money to millions of bank accounts for filers who claimed a dependent. Those who opted out of the advance payments would be able to claim the child tax credit and receive a higher refund when filing their tax return.
There Will Be a Fourth Stimulus Payment – Here’s the Deal
So, now that we have established that there will be another stimulus check (just not from the federal government or the federal reserve bank), here’s what to expect.
Who Will Get the 4th Stimulus Check?
Who gets the 4th stimulus check will be largely determined on a state-by-state basis. Even then, most of them are hardship-based or limited to specific professions, so eligibility criteria also comes into play.
States offering some version of a fourth stimulus check generally allocate funds to help the unemployed, front-line workers, families with young children, and other subsets of the state population.
These States Will Issue State-Specific Stimulus Checks
Some states using the allocated funds in the American Rescue Plan decided to use it to give stimulus checks to specific groups of people. Every state has different criteria. However, the common theme is that people from a particular income group or who experienced specific economic loss, such as unemployment, are eligible for the next stimulus checks or other pandemic assistance.
overwhelmed with debt? our law firm can help. Schedule your free consultation today.
These U.S. states are distributing state and occupation-specific stimulus checks to their residents:
These Cities Will Issue the City-Specific Stimulus Payment
Many cities have decided to step up and distribute fourth stimulus checks. The common trend in these cities is an aim to help those hardest hit by the pandemic.
These are the United States cities that are distributing city-specific stimulus checks to their residents:
Chicago, Illinois: Monthly assistance to low-income individuals throughout 2022.
Los Angeles, California: A variety of programs and assistance to encourage food security and housing for low-income households.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: Support programs and resources for unemployed individuals, artists, service workers, and more.
These Professionals Will Receive Another Stimulus Check
The states and cities referenced above are issuing fourth stimulus checks to help in the pandemic. Some regions are also offering relief to specific professions.
Teachers: Florida, Georgia, Michigan, Tennessee, and Texas are issuing stimulus checks to contribute to teachers in their state. Each state has its own criteria to aid their teachers and funds will either go directly to the teacher or to the school to support teachers and education.
Healthcare Personnel:Missouri is aiding the people working in mental health facilities, nursing homes, and correctional facilities.
What if You Won’t Receive the Next Stimulus Check, but Need Financial Help?
A fourth stimulus check can be a relief for people who’ve struggled during the pandemic and need a fresh start. However, if you aren’t in a state or occupation that is eligible for help but need financial support, there are alternatives.
Alternative Forms of Pandemic Relief Continuing in 2022
America has an active COVID-19 Economic Relief program. There are many plans and relief options provided to help people get back on their feet if they’re financially impacted by the pandemic. While most of the benefits are offered through government entities and non-profit organizations, it is worth reviewing the different efforts being taken to help.
In addition to the government relief programs, companies and services are available to help if you’re struggling financially. We’ll review several options worth considering based on your unique needs.
Debt Consolidation
If you have credit card debts piling up, it can get stressful. Consolidating your debts into one monthly payment can help you get organized and make it easier to pay off your balances.
Often, consolidation has the benefit of lowering your average interest rate, too. With rising inflation, it’s more important than ever to save extra money wherever possible.
Many financial institutions offer debt consolidation loans, or you can consider a balance transfer credit card. This approach is best when you are current on your debts and can continue to stay current, but can use a bit of a helping hand.
Debt Settlement
If you have a significant amount of debt on your shoulders and are behind or are likely to fall behind, debt settlement might make sense. You can take a DIY approach to settlement, work with a for-profit debt settlement company, or get the help of a debt settlement attorney. Many consumers may not realize that a debt relief attorney can help navigate debt without necessarily resorting to bankruptcy, but many legal strategies can be considered based on your needs.
Want to know a secret that debt settlement companies don’t want you to know? You can usually get legal representation from a state licensed attorney for the around same cost (or less!) than what is charged by debt settlement companies. Get a free consultation today!
The debt relief attorneys at National Legal Center can walk you through the entire debt resolution process on all your accounts. As with all options, negotiating settlements has pros and cons, so make sure you have a thorough understanding before getting started.
National Legal Center is a consumer rights law firm committed to helping good people overcome bad debt. Our team has worked with tens of thousands of consumers over the years. If you’re one of the American households struggling with debt, complete the form below to see if a debt settlement attorney can help you put your debt behind you once and for all.
Filing Bankruptcy
If you’re overwhelmed with debt and can’t afford the monthly payment needed for consolidation or settlement, you might consider Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Filing bankruptcy may feel like a last resort because of the drawbacks, but it can be an appropriate way to solve your debt struggles. We recommend you speak with a bankruptcy attorney to fully understand the option.
Not all attorneys at National Legal Center practice bankruptcy, but some do. Give us a call to discuss your situation. If we can’t help you, we’ll do our best to point you in the right direction.
Conclusion
Another stimulus check can be a breath of fresh air for people struggling during this pandemic. However, it’s not something you want to depend on. Even if you are likely to receive another stimulus check, it may not be clear exactly when you’ll receive it, and amounts can vary. Your best bet is to consider any pandemic relief funds to be a bonus. Build your budget and personal financial plan around your current income.
If debt has you down, we’re here to help you up. Complete the form below to #standuptodebt with National Legal Center!
Need a lifeline to help with debt? We can’t issue stimulus checks like the government, but our debt relief law firm can explore options with you. Request a free consultation today!
Zwicker and Associates, P.C. is a law firm that acts as a debt collector on behalf of creditors and debt buyers.
If you’ve received a summons from Zwicker & Associates, you’re in the right place. Let’s simplify the situation and help you take your next steps.
Who Is Zwicker & Associates?
Zwicker and Associates is a law firm specializing in debt collection.
Their firm is retained by original creditors and debt buyers to collect on past due debts owed by consumers.
They may send debt collection letters and make phone calls to debtors. Because they are a law firm rather than a collection agency, they may also file lawsuits to collect on debts in the states where they have attorneys licensed to practice law.
Contact Information for Zwicker & Associates, P.C.
If you have an account that this law firm is collecting on, it helps to know how to contact them.
Address: 80 Minuteman Rd. Andover, MA 01810
Phone: 1-833-210-5100
Phone: 1-800-370-2251
Fax: 1-978-686-3538
Is Zwicker and Associates Legitimate?
As a consumer rights law firm, we always encourage you to treat any call or letter asking you for money with a healthy amount of skepticism. However, if it truly is a call or letter from Zwicker and Associates, they are indeed a legitimate law firm. In fact, Zwicker & Associates P.C. is among the most well-established debt collection law firms the United States.
Can I be Sued by Zwicker and Associates?
When it comes to debt collection, it is helpful to know what companies can actually file a debt collection lawsuit against you for unpaid bills. To file a lawsuit—or make the decision to retain an outside law firm to file a lawsuit—a company must own the account.
This means that a debt collection agency that is collecting on behalf of a creditor or debt buyer cannot initiate a lawsuit. They do not own the debt, therefore they cannot make the decision to sue the debtor.
An original creditor or debt buyer who owns a debt can file a lawsuit against a debtor directly, or they can retain a law firm (licensed to practice law in the particular state) to pursue collections and file a lawsuit on their behalf.
Can you be sued by Zwicker and Associates?
Yes. They can file a lawsuit if they are retained by the owner of the debt.
What is a Summons and Complaint?
A summons is an official notice of legal proceedings. It is among the first steps in what could become serious legal trouble. It informs you that a lawsuit has been filed against you. The Complaint is delivered with the Summons and provides information such as:
Who is suing you (an original creditor like Discover card or a debt buyer like LVNV Funding);
On what grounds they are suing you;
In the event of defaulted debt, the dollar amount they claim you owe;
The contact information of the lawyers who filed the lawsuit.
If you receive a Summons and a Complaint from Zwicker & Associates, it is vital to consider addressing the matter. Ignoring a summons will often result in a default judgment, which means they win automatically.
Once they have that judgment, they could pursue collecting on the judgment in a few different ways. Depending on the laws of your state, here are a few examples of how they could collect on post-judgment accounts:
garnish wages (take money from your paycheck or other income);
levy a bank account (contact your bank and take money from your checking account), or
place a lien against your home (preventing you from refinancing or having access to your equity until you pay the balance owed on the account).
Of course, it is important to know what they can and cannot do in your state. An attorney can learn about your situation and advise you specifically on what if any risks you actually have.
What Kind of Debt Does Zwicker & Associates Collect?
Zwicker and Associates generally focuses on the consumer debt market— meaning debts owed by individuals rather than businesses.
An original creditor like Discover Financial Services, Citibank, Bank of America, or other lenders may hire them. Or, their law firm may be retained by debt buyers such as Second Round, CACH, or LVNV Funding.
Whether you were served regarding a Discover account, an American Express account, or any other company, the consumer rights attorneys at National Legal Center are here to help.
We can review the summons and complaint that you received and help you understand your risks. Then, if appropriate, we can help settle the debt, respond to the summons, or review other options that might be available.
How Do I Deal with a Debt Collection Law Firm?
If you’re receiving calls or letters from Zwicker & Associates, there are actions you can take to protect your rights as a consumer.
First, read the Attorney’s Guide to Reading A Collection Letter. This free guide will explain the core elements of the letter you received.
Then, determine your next steps.
Are you sure you owe the debt Zwicker & Associates P.C. says you owe?
If not, you might consider disputing the debt. With a bit of research and legwork, you can attempt to do this yourself. However, if you’d like to leave it to a debt attorney familiar with disputing debts, contact our team here at National Legal Center for a free consultation.
If you are sure the debt is valid, can you afford payments to resolve or settle the debt?
Make sure any arrangement is affordable and doesn’t leave you falling behind on other obligations. Coming to a reasonable compromise that is affordable long term is crucial. If you make an arrangement and fail to keep up with payments on the account, the deal is lost, and collection activity can resume.
Should you Negotiate a Settlement with Zwicker & Associates?
When you’re facing a debt collection lawsuit from Zwicker & Associates, one option to resolve the matter is by negotiating a settlement.
A settlement is where you pay less than the total amount owed on the debt, either in a lump sum or in a series of monthly payments. The account is resolved in return for paying the settlement, and Zwicker & Associates should not take any further action.
When there is a lawsuit involved, being aware of the timing of the settlement is essential. For example, if the settlement occurs after Zwicker & Associates sent a summons, you’ll want to understand if the court hearing was canceled or if you still should appear in court.
While you can ask the collection agents at Zwicker & Associates these questions, it’s crucial to remember that they are not your attorneys!
Instead, they represent the other party, so it’s a good idea to be skeptical and confirm anything they tell you because their job is to collect the most funds possible on the accounts they handle.
Receiving a summons from Zwicker & Associates is a legal matter. So, it’s a smart idea to consider hiring a debt relief lawyer to help protect your rights and ensure you aren’t taken advantage of or make a mistake.
What Does it Mean When a Debt Collector Threatens Legal Action?
Debt collection lawsuits can be a serious matter.
The threat of litigation, however, may not be.
The hard part is telling the difference between collection agencies making a threat of a lawsuit and collection agents actually intending to pursue litigation.
One provision of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) states that debt collection companies may not state that they are going to take any action that they do not actually intend to pursue and have the capacity to pursue.
Okay, but what does that mean?
A debt collector cannot say they will have someone sent to your door with a lawsuit unless they actually intend to have someone come to your door with a summons.
This is where language becomes very important.
Here are two statements that a debt collector might make. In one scenario, the collector is making an empty threat. In the other, they’re gearing up for a lawsuit.
Can you tell which is which?
“If you don’t enter into a monthly payment plan by the end of the month, I may have no choice but to consider sending your file to the attorney for review.”
“If you don’t enter into a monthly payment plan by the end of the month, the attorney is going to take legal action.”
As you can see, the first statement uses vague language, while the second statement is more direct.
“I may,” “review,” “for consideration,” “potential.” These are all words that collection agents will use to cover their bases and keep their collection agency out of trouble. They probably don’t intend to file a lawsuit when they use this language.
If you had a debt collector from Zwicker & Associates say they intend to take legal action, take it seriously. If they used vague, waiver-like language, you might have more time. Zwicker & Associates is a legitimate law firm, though, and you should take the collection activity seriously.
If you understand the regulations surrounding collection agencies and law firms that collect delinquent accounts, it’ll be easier to know if their threat of legal action is real or simply meant as a scare tactic.
National Legal Center negotiates with collection agencies and law firms like Zwicker regularly. Complete this short form to discover options to deal with a summons from Zwicker & Associates P.C. and any other creditors you may have.
If you’re tired of struggling with debt, you’ve got options. Call today and let National Legal help you #standuptodebt once and for all.
Struggling with debt? Use the form below to get in touch with us.
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) was enacted in 1977 by the Federal Trade Commission to protect consumers from abusive debt collection practices. It aimed to ensure that people are treated fairly and are not subjected to harassment, threatened, or publicly shamed for their debt.
The FDCPA governs collection agencies. Calls from your credit card company, an original creditor, or other financial companies that issue loans are not subject to these federal rules. However, some state laws offer consumer protection laws that include these financial institutions.
Two rules (issued in October 2020 and December 2020) which address debt collection in today’s world of electronic communication went into effect November 30th, 2021.
Read on to learn where the FDCPA and social media collide and how to protect yourself from debt collection harassment on social media.
Why are debt collection rules changing?
Put into law in 1977, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act governs what collection agents can and can’t say, as well as the modes of communication. Specifically, it covers communication through phone, mail, and fax. That’s right—paper facsimile was a real mode of communication when the law went into effect!
Fast forward 44 years and updates to the law will now address the advances in technology that have occurred since then.
Among the most notable changes is that collection agencies may now use social media to contact people who owe them money.
Social media has become one of the most popular methods of communication.
It is where we get our news, connect with friends and family, and share our successes and worries. As such, it became a natural medium for debt collectors looking for opportunities to contact people they are trying to collect debts from.
While this may seem an intrusive and unwelcome turn of events, it has passed, and social media is officially open to collectors.
FDCPA Update: What’s changed?
The update to the FDCPA covers several areas and generally focuses on the methods and frequency of communication. However, the spirit of the law remains the same— to ensure consumers are treated fairly.
Much has already been written about the broad changes that have taken place in this FDCPA update. We would point you to a thorough overview of the new rules from resources made available by the National Consumer Law Center and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
Among the most notable updates to the law:
Collection companies must wait seven days to call again after speaking with the debtor.
Debt collectors may now send private social media messages, as well as text messages to collect a past-due debt.
The new rule places restrictions on how and when they can contact consumers to collect on past due accounts.
We’ll be diving in on the other specific provisions of the law in future articles. We’re beginning with the social media component, as that may come as a surprise for consumers.
How do changes to the FDCPA affect your rights as a consumer?
The new provisions in the FDCPA open several ways for collection agencies to contact you.
In addition to calling or sending messages through postal mail and fax, they now have the option to text, email, or send a private message through platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
Your rights as a consumer are largely unchanged.
You still have the right to be treated fairly and keep your financial matters personal. In all cases, the collection agent must identify themselves and state that they are attempting to collect a debt. They are not allowed to use obscene, abusive, or threatening language and must comply with the consumer’s request to cease communication.
What should you do if a debt collector contacts you through social media?
If a collector contacts you online, don’t panic! Just like with any communication, you have options.
If our consumer rights law firm already represents you to resolve your debt, you’ll take the same actions as if they were to send a collection letter by sending it in for your legal team to review.
It is always best to have an attorney review any communication from collection agents. Especially as they have new communication methods, there’s a good chance that they may “accidentally on purpose” make a mistake under the presumption of grace with the new rules.
If you are not represented by our law firm for debt matters and a debt collector makes you feel harassed or uncomfortable, our legal team is here and ready to help. A free consultation is your first step.
Included in the new rules is a provision that allows consumers an opt-out option of any method of communication from a collector.
If they call, you can tell them not to call any longer, and the request should be honored. The same rule applies to receiving a message from a debt collector on social media. You can respond by saying that you do not want them to message you on the platform, and they should honor the request.
Remember- asking them to stop contacting you does not make the debt disappear. They may still pursue other collection methods if it is a valid debt. Debt collection lawsuits are very real, and if a collector has no other way to get in touch with you, they may choose to file a lawsuit.
If you aren’t sure of the best way to deal with debt collection calls or messages, complete the form below to request a free consultation with a member of our legal team.
Can a debt collector send me a Facebook message?
Yes, a debt collector can message you through Facebook. The amendments to Regulation F of the FDCPA went into effect on November 30th, 2021. As a result, debt collectors can now communicate with debtors through social media platforms.
The new rule includes an opt-out option that allows you to inform them you do not wish to be contacted through any particular method.
Can a debt collector post publicly about me on Facebook?
No. The new rule of the FDCPA continues to protect consumers from debt collectors making information about a debt publicly available. If a collector has posted publicly about your debt, you may choose to file a claim against the collector and may be awarded damages.
What should I do if a debt collector sends a Facebook message?
When a debt collector contacts you on Facebook, first consider whether or not it is a legitimate debt collector and not a scam. Several concerns are raised by the new rules of the FDCPA. Notably, scam artists now have a new way into victims’ pockets.
Suppose you want to engage the debt collectors and resolve the debt. First, request that they identify themselves. Make sure they are the ones providing information, not the other way around.
Once they provide their name and the name of their company, it’s time to confirm. Consider calling their agency to make sure they are who they say they are and take the conversation to phone calls which are likely to be more secure. Facebook is not the best place to discuss financial matters that involve your Personally Identifiable Information. Even if it takes a bit of extra time and effort, it is better to deal with the debt in a way that keeps you safe.
If you do not believe the debt is valid, you can request that they provide a validation of the debt. The new rules allow you to make that request through any method, so you can even request it right on that message.
If you do not want to engage the debt collectors, you can ignore them or ask that they no longer contact you. This does not resolve the debt or your obligation to pay. Still, you do have the right to opt out of communicating with them through any particular vertical.
What should I do if a debt collector sends a text message?
Just as above, if a debt collector contacts you through a text message, your first step is to determine whether or not you believe the person to be whom they say they are. If you are confident that they are a valid debt collector, you will proceed based on your goals.
Do you want to settle the debt?
Are you prepared to make a payment plan?
Do you need more information to decide if you really owe what they say you owe?
If you are unsure how to proceed, consider learning how a debt settlement attorney can help by contacting us through the form at the bottom of this page.
How to Protect Yourself from Debt Collectors on Social Media
Debt collectors are just now able to contact consumers on social media. However, they have long been familiar with using the platforms to learn about the people they are trying to reach.
Here are several ways to protect yourself from debt collectors on social media.
Keep your pages private.
We all love to celebrate our life-wins with our social networks. New cars, homes, jobs- we share all of life’s successes with our friends and family.
You probably weren’t considering the debt collectors who were zooming in to look at your ID badge to figure out where you work, though, were you?
Every platform has its own (wickedly confusing) set of privacy options and controls. Set your pages to private to ensure you are only celebrating with those who are in your corner.
Limit the Personally Identifiable Information you share.
Whether you choose to keep your social pages private or not, it is still wise to keep your Personally Identifiable Information off of your page. Information such as your phone number, email address, mailing address, and birthday are all gold for debt collectors who are trying to confirm that the profile they are looking at is actually yours.
Don’t accept that random friend request.
We’ve all received the random friend request.
Maybe it’s a super cool person we’d like to befriend, a gorgeous soul-mate, or a business opportunity we can’t miss out on. Is any of that likely to be the case, though?
If you aren’t sure who they are, there’s probably not much to gain by bringing them into your online world.
Don’t post pictures with identifying information.
Less is definitely more when it comes to protecting yourself from debt collectors on social media.
Sharing a picture of your favorite coffee shop you go to each day on your lunch break or your planned trip to visit a family member (who you tag, naturally) is innocent and friendly. However, it can lead a collector to find and call said person or place to anger or embarrass you into calling. No, the collection agent can’t divulge that they are calling to reach you about a debt. Still, you (and possibly the person they’ve called) know what the “personal business matter” they’re calling about is.
This may feel extreme, but debt collectors are smart, resourceful, and trained to locate debtors and get them on the phone. Following the above suggestions of keeping your page private and ignoring random friend requests will allow you a bit less to worry about on this front.
How to Deal With Debt Collection Harassment on Social Media
Suppose you have found yourself in a situation where debt collectors are harassing you. In that case, there are actions you can take to protect yourself.
Keep a record.
While it may seem like an obvious suggestion, it is important to keep good records of whom you have talked to, when, and what was said. This includes recording the social media messages by taking a screenshot or printing the conversation.
Be clear and direct.
If a collector is harassing you, be very clear about what is happening and why it’s not OK with you. Avoid getting pulled into an argument of any kind. Keep a level head and end the conversation. Unlike phone calls, when the communication is electronic, you can’t exactly hang up to end the conversation. However, you can ignore the private messages and return to them later if you choose to do so.
Contact an attorney.
If the debt collector’s behavior becomes too much for you to handle, or if you think they are violating the law in any way, contact an attorney. The consumer advocates at National Legal Center may be able to help you turn the tables to take legal action against the harassing agency and protect your rights.
In Summary
Debt collectors are now able to contact debtors through social media. This is a recent change to the FDCPA that raises a number of concerns for consumers.
First, don’t share personally identifiable information on your social profiles or accept friend requests from strangers. Secondly, keep good records of what a collector says, how often they contact you, as well as their methods for contacting you. Finally, if you feel you are being harassed or need help dealing with your debt, reach out to an attorney to help protect your legal rights.
The consumer advocates at National Legal Center focus on debt collection harassment. If you feel like you are being harassed by debt collectors, please reach out to us for a free consultation. We will help you understand your legal rights and options to #standuptodebt today!
Use the form below to easily get in touch with us.
Older Americans are on the rise. The fun they are having is, too!
As baby boomers continue to age, our population is getting older. According to the U.S Census Bureau’s projections, about one of every five people will be 65 or older by 2030.
This rapid growth of our senior population will have an enormous impact on how we live and what services we need as a nation. For example, housing for older adults should be accessible, affordable, and safe; social services like transportation and home care should also be readily available for those who need it most.
National Legal Center helps seniors thrive by eliminating the stress of debt. Complete the following form if you need help with debt, or request our free e-book, “How to Talk to Seniors About Finances.” That’s all one small piece of a very large puzzle, though. We can all play a role in addressing and advocating for these significant concerns.
Stand Up To Debt with National Legal Center
If you’re on a fixed income, you don’t have to be burdened with unaffordable debt payments or an expensive and stressful bankruptcy. Those might be the right options for you, but they aren’t the only options. Explore options with a simple, direct conversation with our U.S. based legal team by calling 1-800-728-5285. Or, complete the form below to schedule a consultation.
80 is the new 60
Seniors are increasingly taking part in adventurous activities. Gone are the days of seniors relegated to sitting on porches swinging life away. Instead, they’re out rock climbing, skydiving, and surfing. A growing movement of older adults refuse to let age define them or their lifestyle.
All over the country, initiatives are springing up to support seniors in staying active as they get older. Local groups, fitness clubs, and retirement communities are all getting in on the action. Fitness groups like Mutually Well, and Silver&Fit have joined pioneer programs like Silver Sneakers.
These programs are great because they provide older adults with the resources to plan and participate in activities that will keep them physically fit and mentally engaged.
80 is the new 60 doesn’t mean 80-year olds don’t need help getting around or maintaining their homes anymore. It just means we all have more active and vibrant seniors living in our communities and that we should be supporting them while they’re out there doing what they love.
National Legal Center helps seniors thrive by solving debt. When debt isn’t in the way, the adventure continues on!
Enjoy this inspiring video from Healthy Readers of 5 amazing seniors who live life to its fullest and break records along the way!
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While having a credit lawyer can be very helpful in dealing with trouble on your credit report, a personal review and basic understanding is always the first step.
Surprising Information About Credit Reports
Do you know how frequently your credit report is updated?
It may surprise you that creditors or collection agencies can report account updates sporadically throughout the month, rather than a set standard such as the 28th or 1st of the month.
Because of this, your credit reports may fluctuate and could look different throughout the month depending on when your creditors report, and even which bureaus they’re reporting to. Yes, which bureaus. It’s a good idea to keep an eye on the reporting from all three of the major reporting agencies. The big three are Transunion, Equifax, and Experian.
Because of the possible sporadic reporting from one creditor to the next, it would be wonderful to have a very regular review of your credit report. Until recently, we’ve only been able to receive one free report per bureau, per year.
So, when is the last time you pulled a copy of your credit report?
If it’s been a while, that’s okay.
Remember that “You can’t go back and make a new start, but you can start right now and make a brand new ending.” – James Sherman
Recent news makes credit reports more accessible than ever, so now is the time to start writing your new ending.
Easier Access to Credit Reports
Annualcreditreport.com provides free credit reports from the three major bureaus well, annually.
Right now, however, you can pull free reports weekly through April of 2022. This free access to credit reports was enacted voluntarily by the major credit bureaus to help people deal with credit trouble during the pandemic.
We suggest taking advantage of this opportunity to monitor your credit and be on the lookout for any fraud or inaccurate information. If something doesn’t look quite right, be sure to investigate further.
Here’s what we suggest watching your credit reports for:
Name
Address
Date of Birth
Social Security Number
Employer
Accounts
Loans
Balances
Payment History
If you find major errors and need professional help, you’re not alone! The team at National Legal Center can help you determine if a credit lawyer could help you correct inaccuracies on your credit reports.
Good Habits for Good Credit
To keep your credit in good health, remember to keep your positive reporting items positive.
Continue making payments on your current accounts on time.
Keep your balances less than 30% of the credit limit.
If you have accounts that have always been current, be sure to keep them open.
In addition to frequently checking your credit reports, it’s a good idea to monitor all of your financial accounts consistently. Keep an eye on your bank accounts, credit card accounts, car loans, personal loans, and any others. A watchful eye will help you have a good understanding of your financials. It can also help ensure you’re not making late payments, which can negatively impact your credit score.
There are many free tools available out there for monitoring your finances. Be sure to utilize them to stay on track with your goals, and to #standuptodebt for those of you out there on your journey to become debt-free.
Happy continued National Consumer Protection Week! Not as much fun as Cinco de Mayo and the signature drink is probably a flat dark ale mixed with Metamucil, but still, let’s have some fun! Last time we talked about Imposter Scams – today,let’s talk about what to do if you are a victim of identity theft.
Identity theft is when someone uses your personal data — name, Social Security number, birthdate, etc. — to impersonate you, most commonly for financial gain. They might use that information to drain your bank and investment accounts; open new credit lines in your name; get utility service; steal your tax refund; get access to medical treatments; or give police your name and address when they are arrested.
The internet has made it easier for thieves to obtain personal and financial data. It has also made it easier for thieves to sell or trade that information, making it more difficult for law enforcement to identify and apprehend the criminals. Unfortunately, while you can’t guarantee you’ll never become a victim, there are ways to minimize your risk.
You can freeze your credit with all three Credit Reporting Agencies. This restricts access to your records so new credit files cannot be opened in your name.
Safeguard your Social Security number. Do notcarry it with you and make sure to shred any documents or mail that may contain your SSN. Don’t fall victim to phone calls from people claiming to be from Social Security and be wary of any email claiming to be from the Social Security Administration. If you have any questions or concerns, contact the SSA directly.
Be alert to phishing and spoofing. Scammers can “spoof” phone numbers to make it look like the call is coming from a legitimate government agency. They can also “phish” emails to entice you into handing over your personal and financial information. Once again, if you have any questions, it is best to contact the agency directly.
Use strong passwords and do not reuse them. You can also add an extra layer of authentication to further protect yourself. Don’t rely on security questions, and never post data on social media that would offer clues as to how to answer your security questions.
Watch your mailbox. Stolen mail is a great way for scammers to steal your identity. Have your mail held if you are out of town, or consider signing up for Informed Delivery through the USPS by which you can preview your mail to see if anything is missing.
Most importantly, shred and shred and shred. Don’t leave any bank, credit card or investment statements where someone can steal them. Shred junk mail too, as it is better to be safe than sorry.
If you find yourself a victim of identity theft, start by reporting it to the FTC and follow their recommendations to start a recovery plan. You may also need to file a police report with local law enforcement and contact your credit bureaus. And finally, feel free to contact us. Stay safe and shred that mail!
Happy National Consumer Protection Week!! You probably didn’t know that National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW) is February28th through March 7th! This annual event encourages individuals and businesses to learn about their consumer rights and how to keep themselves secure.
As a kick off to NCPW, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is collaborating with its partners to share educational resources and tips on scams, identity theft, and other consumer protection issues. The first issue to be tackled is a delightful little fraud known as the “Imposter Scam”.
Imposter scams come in many varieties, but all work the same way: a scammer pretends to be someone you trust to convince you to send them money.
There are almost too many types of imposter scams to list here, but some of the most commonly impersonated are government agencies such as Medicare, the Internal Revenue Service, the Census Bureauand the Social Security Administration (SSA). If this wasn’t bad enough, thanks to the pandemic, other imposter scams are springing up all over by people pretending to be affiliated with government health agencies to prey on our fears of the virus. Other cons are related to our anticipated Economic Impact Payments (EIP), sometimes referred to as stimulus checks. Noone wants to be a victim of these ploys, but these crooks can be very slick, so here are some tips to protect yourself:
First and foremost, know that the government will never call, text or contact you on social media saying you owe money, or to offer help to get your EIP faster. If you get a message from a government agency representative through social media, it’s a scam. If you are eligible and haven’t yet received your Economic Impact Payment, visit irs.gov and follow their instructions.
Second, beware of emails from government agencies. For trustworthy information, visit government websites directly.Never click on any link in an email or text message. Scammers often send fake links to websites that are set up to look like they’refrom the government. Instead of clicking on links in messages, open up a new window and search for the name of the government agency. For the most up-to-date information on the pandemic, be sure to visit coronavirus.gov.
Finally, say NO to anyone from any agency of the government demanding cash, gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or personal and financial information, whether they contact you by phone, texts, email, or in person.Under no circumstances should you share your Social Security, Medicare ID, driver’s license, bank account, or credit card numbers. Much better to err on the side of caution during these difficult and demanding times.
There is a lotof helpful information available to assist you in keeping safe and secure. For instance, get up-to-date information on avoiding COVID-19 related fraud by visiting ftc.gov/coronavirus/scams. AARP has many great resources available, and for further help in protecting yourself financially during this pandemic, check out consumerfinance.gov/coronavirus. And, of course, we at National Legal are always happy to assist you. Stay healthy, and keep yourself safe.
In today’s financial world, nothing seems more important than your credit score. If you want to buy a home, get a car loan, even land that great new job, you need a good credit score. So, what is this mysterious score and how is it calculated?
A lender who is thinking of giving you a loan is gambling on the fact that you will be able to pay them back. Your credit score is a good indicator of how much risk they will be assuming by giving you a loan. Keep in mind that different companies look at different types of data to calculate your score. This is why you may have a different score from Transunion than you may have from Equifax or Experian, but in general, all three credit bureaus look at some basic data in order to calculate your score. This includes the number and types of accounts you have, amount of credit used versus amount of credit available, and the length of your credit history as well as your payment history. So, what is it that might make your credit score take a sudden and unexpected tumble?
Well, we all know that paying bills late (or not at all) is a good way to damage your credit score. Ignoring that red or yellow envelope from a creditor practically guarantees your credit will soon be plummeting. So try to pay the ones that look like they’re on fire – these are bad colors when it comes to bills. There are, however, other sneakier ways for creditors to lower your score of which many of us may not even be aware.
For example, I was trying to buy a blouse at a major retailer who shall remain nameless – although their name rhymes with “JB Renneys”. The cashier asked me if I had a JB Renneys credit card. No, I said. Just fill out an application and you can get 20% off today’s purchase, they said. So like an idiot, I did. In my defense, 20% off – I mean, I’m only human. The next day I woke to find my credit had dropped ten points. If your credit is already teetering on the verge of disaster, ten points is a big drop.
So, – why did that happen? Well, what the nice lady at JB Renneys failed to tell me is that the store would do a “hard pull” before issuing me credit. A hard inquiry occurs when a lender with whom you’ve applied for credit reviews your credit report as part of their decision-making process. This type of inquiry appears on your credit report and can influence your credit scores. While this impact is often short-lived it still hurts. Compare this to a “soft pull”, which occurs in cases where you check your own credit or when a lender or credit card company checks your credit to pre-approve you for an offer. Soft inquiries do not impact your credit scores. This is merely one of many ways to send your scores plummeting.
Less obvious ways to damage your credit include:
• Reporting Errors. Inaccurate negative information on your credit reports can impact your score • Parking tickets • Utility bills • Medical Bills • Delinquent Child Support • Paying off a loan or closing a credit card. While these seem like good things, they can damage your credit. No, it doesn’t make sense, but just trust me on this. I paid off my student loans early and dropped my credit score 18 points • Not paying your rent or getting evicted.
So, what can you do to avoid these traps for the unwary? Well, try to pay your bills on time. Do not ignore that annoying parking ticket. Most importantly, review your credit reports frequently to make sure they are accurate and dispute any inaccurate information. I wish you all peace, love and a score in the mid-800s.
