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The Florida Bar
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Money, Bankruptcy, Credit and Debt

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The Florida Bar Consumer Pamphlets and Tips
Money Matters
Bankruptcy
Credit
Debt Relief and Credit Repair
Advance-Fee Loan Scams
Debt Collection


The Florida Bar Consumer Pamphlets and Tips
Bankruptcy
Credit Repair Fraud
Debtors' Rights in Florida
Your Rights and Responsibilities When Applying for Credit or Loans


Money Matters
The Federal Trade Commission’s website Money Matters External Link opens in a new window deals with: Scam Watch, Credit Cards, Managing your Money, Dealing with Debt, Your home and Jobs. The FTC states that practicing tried-and-true money management techniques – and learning how to recognize and avoid “ripped from the headlines” scams – can help consumers weather tough economic times.

Bankruptcy

Before You File for Personal Bankruptcy External Link opens in a new window
Get information about credit counseling and debtor education from the FTC with information about the new bankruptcy law requiring credit counseling before bankruptcy and debtor education after filing.

Bankruptcy Basics Video External Link opens in a new window
The U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Middle District of Florida, has a DVD that may be viewed online or at all of the federal courthouses in the Middle District of Florida. The video includes the information about what bankruptcy is, alternatives to bankruptcy, types of bankruptcy, what bankruptcy does not wipe out, examples of property exempt from bankruptcy, procedures for filing a bankruptcy case, meeting of creditors, bankruptcy crimes, court hearings, discharge, a discussion of whether you need an attorney and how to find an attorney as well as online resources for consumer debtors.

The U.S. Courts Web site now offers a series of eight short Bankruptcy Basics videos External Link opens in a new window streaming online. These videos include discussions of bankruptcy chapters, what bankruptcy can and cannot do, the filing process, and how to seek legal assistance.


Credit

• Credit Cards and Consumer Loans External Link opens in a new window
Provides tips on shopping for credit cards, using cards carefully and keeping your credit record clean.

• Credit Reports and Credit Scoring External Link opens in a new window
Many credit issues are discussed.

• How to Dispute Credit Report Errors External Link opens in a new window
Get a free report. Learn how to dispute errors with credit reporting agencies.

Debt relief and credit repair

Whether offered as debt management, debt reduction, debt elimination, debt negotiation or debt settlement or even credit counseling, many businesses are taking advantage of consumers. Please see the HUD Approved Housing Counseling Agencies External Link opens in a new window, as telephone solicitation, mail or website offers may not be operated by businesses with your best interest in mind.

• How to Protect Yourself: Credit Repair and Debt Relief Services External Link opens in a new window.
From Florida Attorney General, this guide discusses managing debt; choosing a counselor; and warning signs for scams.

•The Federal Trade Commission offers these tips on Credit Repair: How to DIY and Avoid a Scam External Link opens in a new window.

•Learn about The Truth about Debt Relief Services External Link opens in a new window with this video from the Federal Trade Commission.

Advance-Fee Loan Scams

‘Easy’ Cash Offers Teach Hard Lessons External Link opens in a new window
Provides tips on how to spot a scam and avoid losing your money. Rule No. 1: Legitimate lenders never "guarantee" or say that you are likely to get a loan or a credit card before you apply, especially if you have bad credit, no credit or a bankruptcy.

Debt collection

• Debt Collection FAQS: A Guide for Consumers External Link opens in a new window

• How to Protect Yourself: Debt Collections External Link opens in a new window

[Revised: 06-03-2011]