Three Steps to Ending Medical Bill Harassment in Delray Beach

Posted on by John Mufson

One in four Americans struggled to pay medical bills in 2016. This struggle continues today, with many avoiding vital medical care because of financial strains. No one should have to live this way, but when dealing with medical bill harassment in Delray Beach is the alternative, it’s like being between a rock and a hard place. Debt collectors call incessantly and at ridiculous times. They send threatening letters and try to use scare tactics to get your money. If this is happening to you, don’t fall for their tricks and think you have to go into debt to settle these medical bills.  

Here’s three steps you should take to end medical bill harassment. 

Step 1: Do Your Research 

Debt collection agencies rely on you being uninformed and intimidated by their scare tactics. They hope their annoying calls and letters will be enough to force you to pay steep bills and fees in exchange for peace. Don’t let them take advantage of you; instead, arm yourself with knowledge. Understanding debt laws in Delray Beach can protect you from illegal actions by medical debt collectors. 

For example, knowing that collectors are not allowed to call after 9 PM or before 8 AM. They are also not allowed to contact you at work, or pretend to represent any legal authority. Other restrictions include but are not limited to: 

  • Contacting unauthorized third-parties, including your employer, about your debt 
  • Sending written communications designed to look like summons from the government or an attorney 
  • Attempting to collect debts which have expired under Florida’s statute of limitations 
  • Continuing to contact you directly despite legal representation 
  • Using or threatening use of violence 

If you have experienced any of these forms of medical bill harassment in Delray Beach, contact Mufson Law immediately. 

Step 2: Request Contact Cease 

Filing a formal request to cease contact is vital to the process of settling your debt and ending medical debt harassment. While making your wishes known verbally when you receive a call is helpful, it is important to having your request in writing. This documentation will be necessary should legal action be required in the future. 

Additionally, having evidence for harassment claims is vital for any claims you may have against the collection agency. Make copies of any written correspondence you receive and keep record of your call history, especially if they occur during restricted times. 

If you continue to receive calls, emails, or letters after filing a formal cease and desist or creating a payment plan, be sure to record the specific details for later use. This includes time of call, name of representative who called, and any other pertinent information. 

Step 3: Contact an Attorney 

Medical bill collectors use aggressive, illegal tactics because they don’t think you will do anything about it. When it comes to medical bill harassment in Delray Beach, an attorney can help put an end to your suffering. The legal team at Mufson law has the knowledge and experience to take on any case, no matter how great your debt or how long the harassment has persisted.  

Put an end to the harassing calls and letters today. Call Mufson Law now for your consultation. 

Five Major Mistakes to Avoid When Filing Bankruptcy

Posted on by John Mufson

Making the decision to file for bankruptcy is scary. For the average person, bankruptcy law in Delray Beach is complicated and confusing. It’s hard to know what to expect on the other end, let alone plan for how you will rebuild your credit and finances in a healthy way. Many people equate bankruptcy filing with losing everything, but that’s rarely the case. In fact, this process is specifically designed to help you salvage what you can while consolidating and eliminating debt.  

If you are in the process of filing bankruptcy, avoid these five detrimental mistakes. 

Lying About or Hiding Assets 

Qualifying for Chapter 7 bankruptcy includes a “means test” which assesses your ability to pay off creditors. During this process, you must disclose all income and assets. Failing to do so could result in your case being dismissed and a legal ban against future attempts to file Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Lying about these factors in your bankruptcy filings doesn’t matter, anyway. Once a trustee accesses your financial information, the likelihood these assets will remain hidden is slim. Likewise, attempting to hide or lie about additional creditors is also moot, as credit companies can gather information about your bankruptcy case. 

Giving Away Assets to Family or Friends 

A common mistake when it comes to bankruptcy law in Delray Beach is the transference of property of assets to a loved one before or during the process in an effort to protect or secure it. Often this is done under the guise of a “gift” or sales transaction with the intent to reverse it afterward. Not only is this illegal, it’s not a recipe for disaster. Regaining ownership after the fact may be messy and cause strained relationships between you and friends and family. You may think you are protecting yourself against repossession, but there’s an easier way with Mufson Law. 

Tapping into Retirement Money 

The money in your 401K or other retirement savings accounts has a designated purpose. Dipping into these funds is not only ill-advised, it’s pointless. These accounts are protected during bankruptcy proceedings, so they won’t be affected unless you choose to withdraw money to pay toward debts. Choosing to do so is not allowed, as it shows favoritism toward certain creditors over others who remain unpaid. Don’t fret, your bankruptcy attorney at Mufson Law can help you determine your best course of action. 

Maxing Out Credit Cards 

Trying to use what credit you have available before filing bankruptcy can complicate your case. If your creditor believes you have done so intentionally, they can challenge the courts’ attempt to eliminate this debt. They may accuse you of fraudulent borrowing, which can affect your financial future. If found guilty, you may be held responsible for paying some or all remaining debts. In general, credit transactions made within 90 days of filing are not considered during the proceedings and will continue to be your responsibility. To be safe, once you file for bankruptcy, do not use your credit cards. 

Not Consulting an Attorney 

Bankruptcy law in Delray Beach is intimidating and difficult to navigate on your own. Failing to consult a lawyer when filing your case can make the process drawn out or lead to rejection. At Mufson Law, we focus on debt solutions, including bankruptcy. Our team of knowledgeable and experienced legal professionals is prepared to help you find the best solution for you, up to and including bankruptcy options. 

If you’re ready for a debt-free future, contact us now. 

10 Tips for a Debt-Free Holiday Season

Posted on by John Mufson

For many people, this week marks the official beginning of the holiday season. With Black Friday just around the corner, millions across the United States will participate in the mad dash to find the perfect gift for loved ones, the perfect holiday outfit, or other financial splurges. While this uptake in commercial spending is great for the retail world, it can be detrimental to your wallet. Going into debt over the holidays is not uncommon; in some cases, it may take months to recover. But holiday shopping doesn’t have to be this way. It is possible to show your friends and family you care without breaking the bank. Mufson Law, your source for debt solution in Delray Beach, offers these 10 tips for a debt-free holiday season. 

Plan Ahead 

You’ve heard it time and time again, but staying within your budget is key to avoiding the pitfalls of holiday-related debt. For some, this includes beginning to save months in advance, or even taking on temporary part time jobs to increase one’s income. Whether than scrambling for a debt solution in Delray Beach in the new year, making wise choices now can protect your financial well-being. 

Creating your holiday budget is easiest when you have specific gifts in mind for each person on your list. Wandering malls and window shopping can lead to some ill-advised purchases you may regret later. Instead, think practically: you don’t have to go broke to prove you care. Set a hard limit for your holiday spending that is within your budget and make sure to keep track as you shop. Some charges may take longer to process during the holiday season, and you don’t want any nasty surprises later. 

Take Advantage of Sales and Coupons 

Forward planning also includes where, when, and how you shop. We all know that Black Friday can offer some great deals, but more and more Americans are also taking advantage of Cyber Monday. Falling on the first Monday after Thanksgiving and Black Friday, Cyber Monday offers some of the best online shopping deals of the year. In many cases, these sales may be better than in-store promotions.  

Not participating in Black Friday or Cyber Monday? They aren’t your only way to save money this holiday season. Money saving apps like Shoptagr will send you a notification when your desired items are restocked and on sale. Honey and RetailMeNot offer web extensions to find the best coupon codes, while Ibotta may allow you to get some cash back for purchases. Take advantage of modern technology so you never spend more than necessary. 

Experiences Over Material Goods 

When it comes to gifts, we often immediately think of gadgets, trinkets, and other material things our family and friends may enjoy. While there’s nothing necessarily wrong with this, these gifts can quickly turn into unused clutter. One great debt solution in Delray Beach is to look for experiences rather than material gifts. Things like concerts, theatre, or comedy shows are great holiday gifts with the added bonus of giving you a little extra time. If a show is in the distant future, simply create a beautiful certificate to present as a promise for great fun to come. 

Experiences aren’t limited to shows, either! If your loved one is a fan of the great outdoors, treat them to a day of kayaking or hiking at one of our beautiful state parks. If they’re more attuned to the metaphysical, consider a trip to a reiki healing center or full moon drum circle. Whatever you choose, schedule your plans out well enough that they don’t place too much strain on your budget. 

Don’t Try to Stun Everyone 

Your friends and family know you love them. You don’t have to buy the most expensive, extravagant gift on each of their lists. It’s true when they say it’s the thought that matters—especially if the alternative is going into debt. Get a list of potential gifts for each person, or limit yourself to a set amount for each gift so there’s no sense of favoritism. If there’s something really important on someone’s list, consider pitching in with a group to make the gift more affordable. 

Get Crafty 

Handmade gifts are underrated. Taking the time to make someone you love a gift is an act of love that can’t be bought in stores. Whether you are a seasoned knitter, paint as a hobby, or try your hand at a craft for the first time this year, the time and effort is appreciated. Plus, handmade gifts are often the more affordable option for staying under budget. It can be easy to forget who bought what, but every time your loved one wears their new scarf or looks at the painting you’ve done, they’ll think of you with a smile. 

Take Advantage of Free Events 

Celebrating the holidays isn’t about gift giving. This time of year has some of the best attractions and events across South Florida. While some of them can be a drain on your wallet, keeping an eye out for free family fun events can make this holiday season even more special. Avoid needing a debt solution in Delray Beach by taking your family out to free parades, holiday light displays, or public concerts. They are listed on online community bulletin boards, in Facebook events, or at local parks. Just make sure you give yourself enough time to find good parking! 

Potluck Parties 

Hosting a get together during the holidays? Instead of splurging on groceries and party supplies yourself, make it a potluck party! Invite each attendee to bring their favorite dish. For those who aren’t so skilled in the kitchen, bringing disposable plates and cutlery is also a great way to contribute. Hosting a party this way is not only a great way to save money, it takes some of the stress off of your shoulders, too. Just make sure everyone is aware of any potential allergies and what items are already being supplied to avoid confusion. 

Let Go of FOMO 

FOMO, or Fear of Missing Out, is one of the biggest contributors to holiday-related debt. We want to attend all the parties and events, and look amazing while doing it. Spending hundreds on new holiday outfits, tickets, gas, parking, and other going out expenses is the fastest way to wind up needing a debt solution in Delray Beach. It’s okay if you can’t make an event or two. There will be others. On the bright side, taking time to yourself is a vital form of self-care during the holidays. 

Keep Track of Expenses 

This tip is valid throughout the entire year, but especially during the holidays. The heavy influx of sales and transactions during this time may cause delays in charges hitting your account. If you rely solely on what your account balance says, you may wind up overdrafted and in debt. Instead, create your holiday shopping budget and keep track of your final expenses, including whether you went over or under. This will also help you identify fraudulent activity in your account like double charging or hidden transactions card scammers may try to slip in. It may seem tedious, but your future self will thank you. 

Avoid Payday Loans 

Companies like Amscot and other cash advance businesses thrive during this time of year. They know you’re desperate to get out and shop, so they offer short-term loans to tempt you. Don’t fall for it; the fees can quickly add up, leaving you in a payday loan cycle to try and stay afloat. These services should only be used sparingly and in emergencies. Even then, only take out as much as you can afford to repay without stressing your budget. It’s always better to miss a sale or go without that cool new gadget than to get trapped in debt. 

If you are struggling with debt, Mufson Law may be able to help. Our extensive knowledge of financial law means we can help you find the perfect debt solution in Delray Beach. 

Do Millennials Need More Debt Relief Than Previous Generations?

Posted on by John Mufson

The average person in Florida might be hard-pressed to find a news article that shines a positive light on the millennial generation. Frequently criticized for supposedly taking down the napkin and chain restaurant industries, articles often shine a light on the difficult financial situation that many millennials find themselves in. While it might be true that some of the young adults in this generation are in need of debt relief, many are doing just fine.

Millennials range in age from late 20s to their 30s; and their spending habits reflect their age. That is not necessarily a bad thing, though. According to an expert in personal finance with NerdWallet, millennials are on track to be in the same financial position as baby boomers in a few decades. This seems to contradict what many people love to believe about millennials, which is that they are irresponsible with their finances.

What may come as even more of a surprise is that millennials’ financial priorities are largely the same as those of their baby boomer parents. In a survey that asked adults what they would do with an extra $1,000, the majority of both generations prioritized saving and investing. One surprise was the baby boomer attitude toward traveling. In this survey, 7% said they would spend the money to travel while only 3% of millennials would use the money for that purpose.

While it is good news that adults of all generations have their financial priorities in order, having good spending habits does not necessarily prevent anyone from going into debt. Additionally, millennials are not shielded from needing debt relief just by virtue of being young. Rather than spending years trying to climb out of impossibly steep debts, some young adults in Florida might find a better outcome from pursuing personal bankruptcy.

With student loans becoming an increasingly hot button topic as a pressing financial concern and burden for the financial livelihood of millennials, more people are seeking ways to find a debt solution in Delray Beach.

It is important that if you are a young person—or of any age—seeking debt plan or debt program in Delray Beach, that you contact a professional. The Law Office of John E. Mufson has been helping people in South Florida get debt relief for more than 25 years. Call us today at (561) 272-1003 for a free consultation.

What Debt Does Bankruptcy Not Discharge?

Posted on by John Mufson

When filing for bankruptcy, one of the most common things people look forward to having is the majority of their unmanageable debt dismissed or discharged. Sadly, this isn’t a reality for every person who experiences bankruptcy.

Not at all debt is qualified for discharge during bankruptcy. Regardless of which chapter of bankruptcy you file for, there are some types of debt which will not be cleared or covered by the acquittal of your case. Knowing these in advance can help prepare you for the best possible outcome during the bankruptcy process—and prevent unpleasant surprises later!

What Debt Does Bankruptcy Not Cover?

Some debts cannot ever be discharged during bankruptcy, regardless of any other circumstances. These are consistent from state to state and include legal obligations such as child support and alimony. Other types of debts that can never be dismissed by a bankruptcy discharge include restitution owed for legal infractions (penalties owed for breaking the law), wrongful death penalty costs, and certain types of tax debt.

If you owe condo, coop, or HOA fees—or have retirement-related debt—you will continue to be responsible for these payments during and after a bankruptcy. Likewise, if you refuse to list or ‘schedule’ a debt as part of your bankruptcy filing, there is no way that it can be dismissed as part of a bankruptcy discharge unless that creditor had prior and specific knowledge of your bankruptcy filing and is willing to release your debt as part of it.

Other types of debts are simply difficult to discharge. Student loan debt is famous for being difficult to discharge. Proving long-term and ongoing financial hardship that will make repaying this debt impossible or improbable is typically the only way to get this type of debt released—and this is a difficult task, even for an experienced legal professional. More lenient policies are making it easier to get student debt discharged than it has been in the past, but it remains a tricky proposition in regard to bankruptcy.

In some cases, creditors can even appeal the automatic stay process that keeps them from pursuing compensation of debts owed during your bankruptcy. This means that the protection that bankruptcy would typically afford you would be compromised at the order of the court, and these creditors would be allowed to pursue repayment of your debt regardless of your active bankruptcy case. This can leave you and your creditor stuck in a seemingly endless loop of appealing to the courts to explain why you deserve relief from the other’s actions. This makes determining what debt does bankruptcy not cover nearly impossible—and the process of bankruptcy itself far more stressful than it needs to be!

Debts Worth Arguing Over

Some debts are discharged unless the creditor successfully argues that they should not be. Being informed of these can help prepare you for the chance that your creditors will pursue payment of these debts. These debts may include:

  • Debts belonging to creditors not listed on your bankruptcy paperwork
  • Fraud-related debts
  • Debts related to willful or malicious acts
  • Debt incurred from larceny, embezzlement, breach of fiduciary duty, etc.
  • These guidelines also apply to debts incurred from the purchase of luxury items or services, with specific regulations. For purchases of more than $725, they must have been made within 90 days of filing. Cash advances of over $1000 taken out within 70 days of filing also fall under these guidelines.

No Absolute Right to Discharge

What debt does bankruptcy not cover? If you don’t follow the rules, the answer could be all of it. After all, there is no absolute right to discharge of a bankruptcy. Too many people enter the bankruptcy process believing that they can behave any way they see fit and receive a discharge and walk out of court with all of their debts left behind.

Failing to follow the rules of your state and the national bankruptcy law can result in an objection on the part of the bankruptcy trustee to discharge your debt. How can you stay within the lines and play by the rules? It helps to know them.

Here’s what to do if you’re hoping for an uncomplicated discharge:

  • Provide all request documentation, including tax documents in a timely manner
  • Do not hide, transfer, or destroy assets, records, books, documents, or otherwise try to commit fraud or hinder any investigation into your finances related to your bankruptcy case
  • Ensure that all of your assets can be accounted for
  • Show up for all requested or required court appearances and be honest and forthcoming with those you speak with regarding your bankruptcy
  • Complete a financial management course during your bankruptcy to ensure mastery of financial concepts and a better outlook for your financial future
  • Be sure that you don’t file for bankruptcy too soon after previously doing so, as this may cause your case to be rejected for discharge automatically.
  • In some cases, you can follow all the rules to the letter and still find out that there are perfectly legal reasons why your creditors are capable of standing in the way of your discharge. When this happens it can be devastating. However, with the right counsel and some research on your side, you can expect to move through a bankruptcy with relatively little stress.

It is important to always discuss the details of your case with a local legal professional who specializes in bankruptcy and related issues. Bankruptcy law firms in Delray Beach can be upfront with you about your options for debt relief. If filing for bankruptcy is the plan best for you, our legal team at The Law Office of John E. Mufson will take the time to fully explain your options so that you’re truly confident in the decisions you’re making. Call us today at (561) 272-1003 for a free consultation.

How Can I Get Out of Debt Without Losing Everything I Own?

Posted on by John Mufson

If you’re thinking about filing for bankruptcy, it’s nothing to be ashamed about. In fact, the average American has about $38,000 on average in personal debt excluding home mortgages. The truth is that it happens to people from all walks of life. Sometimes bills pile up and it just becomes impossible to make ends meet. At The Law Office of John E. Mufson, we know how tough it can be to manage your bills, credit card debt, student loans, medical expenses and just the daily cost of living in our materialistic society. If you owe far more than you make, if you’re fed up with calls from creditors or if you’re constantly worrying about your medical bills and inability to pay back your student loans, don’t despair, help is available. Call on a professional bankruptcy law firm in Delray Beach like The Law Office of John E. Mufson. We have a great success record and we’re considered one of the best bankruptcy law firms in Delray Beach.

How does bankruptcy work exactly?

Filing the paperwork for bankruptcy can be tedious and complicated, which is why it’s vital to engage the legal guidance and support of an experienced bankruptcy law firm in Delray Beach. The skilled bankruptcy attorneys at the Law Office of John E. Mufson can discuss all of your options when it comes to filing for bankruptcy and the best options to choose from.  

What are my bankruptcy options?

There are a few different types of bankruptcies and one may be a better choice for individuals and another may be a better choice for business owners. These are considered the most sensible bankruptcy options: 

Chapter 7 is a type of bankruptcy that an individual can file. If you owe far more than you can pay back, then you may be a candidate for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Here, assets are exchanged for exemption of debts. Essentially your credit card debts, medical bills, and other debts are wiped completely clean. You are not required to set up a payment plan, but instead, you exchange nonexempt assets for debt liquidation.  

Chapter 13 is the best choice for many individuals. If you have the financial ability to pay off some of your debts but not all of your balances, then Chapter 13 may be the right fit for you. This form of bankruptcy involves a debt restructuring plan. Your income, debt, and expenses are analyzed, then your debts are restructured into payment amounts and cycles that match your financial capabilities. This means that with the help of Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you pay back only a small portion of your debt, a portion that won’t cost more than you can handle. The leftover balances after the Chapter 13 payment period can simply be wiped clean in many cases. 

Our bankruptcy law firm in Delray Beach is prepared to help you understand what filing for bankruptcy means and to determine your best options. Let the expert bankruptcy lawyers at The Law Office of John E. Mufson help you get rid of your debt and guide you towards the financial future you deserve. To learn more about how we can help with your individual situation, please call for a free consultation with one of our skilled bankruptcy attorneys in Delray Beach at (561) 272-1003.    

Do I Need a Foreclosure Defense Attorney in Delray Beach?

Posted on by John Mufson

While the housing market is somewhat stable today with interest rates still at all-time lows, statistics show that with 1 in every 1230 Florida houses sold, a homeowner will receive a notice of foreclosure. Ifyou’re a South Florida homeowner that received a foreclosure notice recently, you’ll want to contact a great foreclosure attorney in Delray Beach right away to get you through this difficult time. When you’re facing the threat of a foreclosure or have just received a foreclosure notice, it’s time to call the Law Offices of John E. Mufson. With our help, you can work towards the most effective foreclosure defense possible, preserving your assets, your finances and your even your home. Foreclosure defense can seem overwhelming, but with a foreclosure attorney in Delray Beach on your side, you can rest assured that we will have your best interests at heart.

Options to consider when facing foreclosure

There are some options to consider before giving up. First, your attorney should take the time to consider your financial needs and goals. There are different paths you can take when you’re faced withthe possibility of foreclosure on your home like:

  • Consider a loan modification – This does not always work in your favor as the loan may end up costing you more in interest over time. But it is an option to buy you more time.
  • Consider forgive a payment or two – sometimes a lender might forgive a payment or two if you promise to remain current on all future payments. It’s worth a try in any case.
  • Consider a repayment plan – this may buy you some time to come up with a payment plan that works for everyone. Spreading payments out over a set amount of time may be a viable option.
  • Consider a short sale – a short sale can be a great alternative to foreclosure. Essentially it is asking your lender to take less what than they are owed on the balance of the mortgage loan.
  • Deed in lieu – in this type of foreclosure the deed to your home is signed over to the bank. You just walk away. But not so fast. Although this will leave you free and clear of your debt, it will destroy your credit rating and make it impossible to purchase a home for years to come. When considering this option or any alternative to foreclosure, it’s best to speak with a foreclosure attorney in Delray Beach like the experienced legal team at the Law Offices of John. E. Mufson.Some of these options are viable alternatives to foreclosure that may be ideal for individuals looking to save themselves from the stress of a monthly mortgage. You may forfeit your home but in exchange for minimal to nonexistent impacts on your credit score and the ability to purchase a new home in the future. While it’s important to take the time to consider your best approach towards foreclosure, it’s important to find the best legal counsel quickly to ensure you fight your foreclosure with viable alternatives in a timely manner. If you’ve received a notice of foreclosure, or if you know that one will be coming soon, reach out to our team at the Law Offices of John E. Mufson today. We will help you devise a plan of action that works for you, then walk you through it from start to finish. To get started with your free consultation, please call our law office at (561) 272-1003. You’ll be glad you did!

Has Overwhelming Debt Sent You into Hiding?

Posted on by John Mufson

If your debt has been piling up and you feel like you are drowning in it year after year with nowhere to turn for help, it may be time to contact a trusted Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer in Delray Beach. It’s easy to be fooled by the ads on TV that promise to easily eliminate and consolidate your debt into lower payments that you can handle. The truth is that many of these companies charge high fees for their services and the last thing you need when you’re trying to get out of debt is to pile on yet another debt. When credit card debt and the stress of worrying about it is overtaking your life and even the minimum payments are hard for you to handle, it may be wise to consider filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy. To accomplish this, you are going to need a legal professional that understands how to best approach debt consolidation. If you’re looking to negotiate credit consolidation in Delray Beach through Chapter 13 bankruptcy, the team at The Law Offices of John E. Mufson is here to help. Our attorneys can handle your case and explore every avenue to ensure the success of your Chapter 13 bankruptcy. We understand the best and most effective approach to successful debt restructuring. Through Chapter 13 bankruptcy, many of your debts can be reduced and even eliminated. All-in-all it’s a positive scenario—you may pay back much less than you owe, or in the best-case scenario, pay back nothing at all.   

How Can our Experienced Law Team Help You? 

At the Law Offices of John E. Mufson, we work with Chapter 13 and Chapter 7 bankruptcies. Through our Chapter 13 bankruptcy attorney in Delray Beach, your debts are restructured into payment plans that are tailored to how much you can pay back comfortably. How it works is that our attorneys contact your creditors, and we negotiate with them to get you the best debt repayment plan possible.  In addition to chapter 13 bankruptcy filing, our bankruptcy lawyers handle Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Delray Beach, helping those facing major credit card, mortgage and even student loan harassment. Automatic stays during both Chapter 13 and Chapter 7 bankruptcy negotiation can help put an end to creditor harassment as you work towards debt and credit card relief.  

There is No Reason to Hide with Our Law Team on Your Side 

When your creditors come knocking at your door, there is no reason to hide. The professional chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyer in Delray Beach at The Law Office of John E. Mufson, understand how to best approach your case to ensure the best personal outcome for you. Under our direction, you will successfully alleviate the weight of your personal debt. Our experienced team at The Law Offices of John E. Mufson is here to help bring about the best solutions to your debts through either Chapter 13 or Chapter 7 bankruptcy. If you fall victim to the vicious credit card cycle, learn more about how to get out from under your debts once and for all. Whether it be credit card debt, loans, hospital bills or auto repossession, our team of Chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyers in Delray Beach are here to offer you the help and support you need. Call us today at (561) 272-1003 for a free, no-obligation consultation.   

Harassed by Creditors? How Bankruptcy Can Protect You!

Posted on by John Mufson

We all the old song and dance: a number you don’t recognize pops up on your phone and you stare at it debating if you should answer. It could be a friend or family member with a new number you haven’t saved yet. More likely, it’s an unsolicited caller attempting to sell you a product or service. For people living with credit debt, those calls can be frustrating and cause anxiety. Having creditors hound you for funds you don’t have keeps you in a cycle of financial stress that seems impossible to escape.  

Creditors call at any time of the day, using shady tactics to get you to answer and to keep you on the phone. These agents make false claims and threats to try and force your hand to collect on debts. Harassing calls can make you hesitant to answer the phone, causing you to miss important information or job opportunities.  

Stop the harassment and reclaim control of your life now. Here’s how filing bankruptcy can help. 

What is Bankruptcy? 

The word bankruptcy strikes fear in many people, yet most don’t actually understand what it is. Bankruptcy is a means of consolidating and eliminating debt through a legal agreement with your creditors. Depending on the type of bankruptcy filed, a bankruptcy law firm in Delray Beach can help you find a solution to your specific situation. 

The most common forms of bankruptcy are Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcies.  

Chapter 7: liquidation of assets to eliminate unsecured debts. Chapter 7 bankruptcies are used for businesses, couples, and individuals who qualify under state specific guidelines.  

Chapter 13: development of a repayment plan spanning three to five years. Chapter 13 bankruptcies allow people with a steady monthly income to eliminate debts through repayment. With manageable monthly payments and a structured repayment plan, this form of debt solution in Delray Beach is the most common.  

How Bankruptcy Ends Harassment 

Filing for bankruptcy provides certain legal protections that help to prevent creditors from going after you in certain ways. Once bankruptcy is filed, creditors must go through the proper legal channels to settle their debts.  

Bankruptcy filing protects you against: 

Property Liens: Debts owed on home or car loans can give creditors the ability to place a lien on that property. A lien means you cannot sell or trade said property until the debt you owe is settled. Through bankruptcy filing, your creditor cannot prevent the transfer of ownership of the property. This is especially important for asset liquidation used toward elimination of debt.  

Foreclosure: As with property liens, foreclosure is an action taken against your property in an attempt to collect on a debt. Foreclosure is an attempt for a home loan provider to take ownership in order to settle mortgage debt. Bankruptcy filings prevent foreclosure proceedings to keep you and your property protected. 

Eviction: Because bankruptcy filing prevents foreclosure, it also protects against eviction from your property, keeping you and your family in your home. A bankruptcy law firm in Delray Beach like the Law Offices of John E. Mufson can guide you through this process.  

Repossession: In the same way that bankruptcy prevents foreclosure and eviction, it protects against repossession of motor vehicles and other collateral property.  

Harassing Phone Calls: Legally, once bankruptcy has been filed and proceedings begin, your creditors can no longer contact you in an effort to collect those debts. Doing so is in violation of the law and carries heavy fines. If the calls continue, gather as much information as you can including specifics of when and who the caller represents. Bring this information to a bankruptcy law firm in Delray Beach so they can ensure your rights are honored. 

If you are getting harassed by creditors and considering filing for bankruptcy, contact the Law Offices of John E. Mufson now. 

Five Ways Bankruptcy Improves Your Credit Score

Posted on by John Mufson

For many Americans, bankruptcy is a desperate, final option shrouded in shame and feelings of failure. While we often think those who file bankruptcy have lost it all, in reality, it is a smart decision designed to help protect your financial well-being. Knowing your options for debt solution in Delray Beach gives you the freedom to choose the path of your financial future. In fact, despite misconceptions, filing bankruptcy can improve your credit score. Here’s how: 

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Reports Regular Payments to Credit Bureaus 

Chapter 13 bankruptcy allows people with a source of regular income to create a repayment plan with creditors. Over the course of three to five years, you can make manageable monthly payments toward eliminating your debt and improving your credit score. Because you are making regular payments, this form of debt solution in Delray Beach greatly improves your score.  

Because chapter 13 bankruptcy consolidates your debt into one monthly payment, it makes it easier to manage your monthly budget and ensure your payments are on time. Reassessing your income and developing a repayment plan that works for you helps to remove the weight and stress of debt from your shoulders so you can move forward.  

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Liquidation Increases Cash Flow 

Filing chapter 7 bankruptcy liquidates your assets to eliminate unsecured debts. This is typically reserved for individuals, married couples, and businesses that qualify: 

  • Monthly income below Florida’s median income 
  • Submit a chapter 7 means test calculation 

If you qualify for chapter 7 bankruptcy, a trustee will be in charge of liquidating your assets to resolve your debts. Debt solution in Delray Beach with Mufson Law keeps you and your well-being as our top priority. Learn more about our bankruptcy services here. 

Chapter 7 bankruptcy asset liquidation creates greater cash flow. By eliminating debts and increasing your expendable cash, this form of debt solution can improve your credit score by opening the doors to credit rebuilding. Creditors recognize the dissolution of prior debts and are more likely to extend opportunities for rebuilding your credit score. By proving yourself better capable of credit management and debt repayment, your crediting options expand to allow for improving your credit standing. 

Removal of Delinquent Accounts 

The greatest benefit of filing for bankruptcy is removal of delinquent accounts from your credit report. Delinquent accounts have the greatest impact on your credit score, signifying an inability to repay loans and lines of credit. Whether through repayment or liquidation, being able to settle these debts and remove them from your report can quickly increase your credit score. Bankruptcy law firms in Delray Beach can help to guide you through the process of removing delinquent accounts from your report so you can rebuild healthy credit. 

Improve Debt-to-Credit Ratio 

Having high debt in relation to your available credit can stand in the way of your future more than a low credit score. Maxed out credit cards and failure to adhere to a loan repayment plan can quickly create formidable, mounting debt that seems impossible to overcome. Attempting to open additional lines of credit are more likely to be denied, as creditors are reluctant to lend money to customers they perceive as unable to repay. Filing bankruptcy to settle high debt can even out this ratio, establishing trustworthiness for future credit. 

Provide the Opportunity to Rebuild 

Filing bankruptcy is not the end of the world, nor does it mean you are trapped in your current financial situation. As a debt solution in Delray Beach, the intention is to give you another chance to get things right. By settling or eliminating debts, bankruptcy allows you to use new financial knowledge to establish a healthy relationship with your finances. Discipline and adherence to your budget can help to create a better future for you and your family. 

For more information about bankruptcy and assistance determining your next move, contact Mufson Law today!