Finances and Debt

Ultimate Guide to Eliminating Student Loans: Forgiveness, Settlement and Discharge

Student loans are the second largest portion of all consumer debt in the United States, behind only mortgages.  But, because of the special legal protections granted to student loans, they are notoriously difficult to reduce or eliminate, unlike almost any other type of debt.  Still, even though student loans are more difficult to deal with […]

Junk Debt Buyer vs. Original Creditor: What Are the Differences and Why It Matters

If you are being sued for a debt, such as a credit card, personal loan, or a medical bill, one of the most important factors in determining how you should defend the lawsuit is whether or not you are being sued by the original creditor or a junk debt buyer.  This article explains the differences […]

Unemployment Compensation Is Taxable in Arizona (with One Exception)

Unemployment compensation is considered income, and is taxed the same way as other income, both by the federal government and by the state. There is currently only one exception to taxation of unemployment benefits. 

Top Questions to Ask When Filing for Bankruptcy in 2021

How is bankruptcy going to help me deal with the change in financial circumstances? This is a question that must always be asked before filing for bankruptcy.

Taking the Necessary Steps to Prevent Bankruptcy

Bankruptcy laws provide debt relief for consumers in the Phoenix area, the State of Arizona, and across the United States. However, with the benefits of bankruptcy also come requirements that must be met in order to qualify. In addition, bankruptcy can have drawback, such as the potential impact on the credit score, and loss of […]

Debt Settlement vs Bankruptcy: Pros and Cons

If you are struggling with debt that you cannot pay, you have probably been told, or have read on the internet, that two of the ways to deal with the debt is through either debt settlement or bankruptcy.  You have probably also read different opinions as to which one is better.  The truth is that […]

How to Stop a Wage Garnishment Right Now

Have you received a notice from your employer that your wages are about to be garnished?  Or, was your last paycheck garnished without you even knowing it would happen?  In Arizona, a creditor can take up to 10% of your wages through garnishment. So if a garnishment happens unexpectedly, it can seriously hinder your ability […]

Should I Accept a Stipulated Judgment to Settle a Collection Lawsuit?

If you are being sued by a creditor, the creditor may offer to “settle” the lawsuit by putting you on a payment schedule, provided that you agree to a stipulated judgment.  Most people faced with a lawsuit want to do anything that will put an end to it, and are happy to jump at any […]

Ultimate Guide to Stopping Garnishment in Arizona

In this guide, we go into detail about garnishments: what they are, how they are initiated, and what you can do to stop a garnishment and avoid losing your assets.  As you read this, please keep in mind that this guide is intended to be informational only, that every situation is unique, and that you […]

Form 1099-C and Debt Forgiveness in Arizona

One of the ways to deal with excessive debt is to negotiate a debt forgiveness or debt reduction agreement.  However, most people are surprised to learn that the IRS can impose a tax on the amount forgiven or reduced.  This article discusses the federal tax consequences of debt forgiveness and the options to deal with […]