Drowning In Credit Card Debt in FL, Bankruptcy Not An Option
I went bankrupt here in Florida 20 years ago, Ch. 7 and have tried since to always pay my debts. I am now totally and permanently disabled and can't work. My 38 year old son and wife have mental problems and can't hold jobs. I have 2 sons still in high school. I get 2 small separate disability payments and no other income. I have over $50,000 in various unsecured debts, mostly credit cards, that I have almost reached the point of default on. I did not buy deluxe items. I scrape and scratch and even dumpster dive 2 or 3 days a week, all over town. We have 1, 14 years old junk car with 180,000 miles on it. My credit score is awful, because every time I've sold some asset to pay down my cc account, the banks cut my credit limit, so it always looks like I've maxed out my cards. End of the rope is near. For personal reasons, I can't file bankruptcy. What is the best course of action? I'm just trying to survive and avoid homelessness. I've been told that I'm what is called, "Judgment Proof" since I have no real assets and my entire income is from disability pensions. What about offering the cc companies a settlement? I might be able to borrow another $10-15 thousand on my house, which would enable me to offer them all about 30 cents on the dollar. Is this wise? Do you think the major credit card issuers might accept an offer like this.
Re: Drowning In Credit Card Debt in FL, Bankruptcy Not An Option
Talk to the credit card companies directly.
Do not use those credit counseling agencies.
Get everything in writing from the credit card companies.
Re: Drowning In Credit Card Debt in FL, Bankruptcy Not An Option
Putting yourself on a path where you could lose your home is not what I would consider a wise approach. I would suggest trying to get past whatever your personal issues are, then consulting with a bankruptcy lawyer.
Re: Drowning In Credit Card Debt in FL, Bankruptcy Not An Option
Somewhere, I read that in Florida, wages and bank accounts can't be garnished. This may or may not be true.
So, if it is true, and you are really judgement proof, maybe you should tell the creditors you cannot pay, and only to contact you by mail.