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Some Ohio consumers who are struggling to pay their bills find it difficult to prioritize which debts to pay first. Financial advisors suggest consumers pay those items that are essential in their lives. Typically, a roof over one’s head is most important — regardless of whether it is a mortgage or rental payment to be made. The second most important…
Ohio consumers who are facing overwhelming debts might share the opinion that debts must be paid at all costs. It is often said that all avenues should be tried before filing for bankruptcy, though the most sensible remedy may be to file for personal bankruptcy before all assets such as retirement accounts are drained. Why would a consumer expose him…
Filing for bankruptcy in Ohio is a complicated process and may be best navigated with the guidance of an experienced bankruptcy attorney. He or she can explain the pros and cons of the different types of bankruptcies — called chapters. Individuals typically have to do a means test to determine whether they qualify for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy.…
Job loss is not something wished upon anybody, and the financial stumbling blocks may be overwhelming. Even if expenses are cut to the absolute minimum, with no income, there may be no money to cover debt obligations. The U.S. Bankruptcy Code may offer an Ohio consumer the opportunity to have some debts discharged, allowing him or her to regain financial…
Foreclosure is not something that is wished upon any property owner, and Ohio homeowners may not realize that lenders do not usually start such drastic actions for a single late payment. A late payment notice may be sent, and if it remains unpaid, the mortgage holder may try to make contact to arrange negotiations to reach an agreement that may…
Consumers with past-due debts may have to endure many associated hardships. Even in cases in which payment agreements have been reached with creditors, debt collectors may become nuisances. In many cases, creditor harassment is committed by non-licensed companies that have no right to call consumers, and the calls often involve nonexistent debts. A consumer in another state recently reported that…
Ohio consumers who are fighting a battle against overwhelming credit card debt may find comfort in learning that remedies are available. Some believe that many people’s financial problems are caused by a few bad spending habits. Habits are hard to break, and recognizing the problem may be a good start. It may be necessary to go through personal bankruptcy before…
Following the spate of clothing retailers to file for bankruptcy, PacSun — a retailer of surfwear with about 600 stores nationwide, including in Ohio — is the latest to follow that route. The retailer filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, announcing that it was a well-planned move to reorganize and restructure the company. Raised levels of competition and the increased popularity…
Small business owners in Ohio who are experiencing overwhelming debt may be surprised to learn the extent of the protection that can be obtained by filing for bankruptcy. Bankruptcy often provides a business owner with the opportunity to overcome excessive business debt. An attorney can explain the protections afforded under the federal Bankruptcy Code. With careful planning and professional guidance, a…
Reverse mortgages were created by Congress in the 1980s to help older homeowners cope with living expenses by drawing income from their home equity. After home values crashed due to the Great Recession, many senior homeowners nationwide, including here in Ohio, faced foreclosure. Although reverse mortgages may be the perfect option for some, consumer advocates warn that this type of…