Credited from: CBSNEWS
As American households face mounting financial pressures, credit card debt has become a significant concern. Recent statistics indicate that the average American credit card holder owes about $8,000, with total credit card debt exceeding $1.17 trillion in late 2024. This unprecedented surge is largely attributed to inflation and rising interest rates, which have pushed average credit card annual percentage rates (APRs) above 23%. With approximately 9% of cardholders currently delinquent on payments, many find themselves at risk of legal action from creditors seeking repayment through lawsuits, according to CBS News.
Being served with a lawsuit for unpaid credit card debt can have detrimental consequences, including demands for full repayment and potential wage garnishment or asset seizure. However, understanding the legal process can greatly influence the outcome. There are several strategies to potentially dismiss a credit card debt lawsuit.
Among these options are formal legal defenses, such as:
In addition to these defenses, pre-trial resolution strategies exist, such as negotiating a debt settlement. This involves paying a lump sum that is less than the total owed, thus potentially ending the lawsuit for a fraction of the debt. Many creditors may accept settlements for 30% to 60% of the total balance, especially for older debts. It's crucial to ensure any agreements reached are documented to protect your interests.
Meanwhile, as borrowers increasingly consider settlement offers, a pertinent question arises: Can a debt collector refuse a settlement offer? The answer is yes; debt collectors are not legally obligated to accept less than the full amount owed, regardless of how reasonable the offer might be. When evaluating a settlement, they consider various factors, including the age of the debt and their internal policies (as explained by CBS News). As they prioritize capital recovery, if a collector believes they can secure more by pursuing further action, they may choose to decline an offer.
To increase your chances of a successful debt settlement, it is essential to:
Engaging with a reputable debt relief company can provide further advantages, as they'll have established relationships with debt collectors, increasing the chances of a favorable negotiation.
In conclusion, understanding your rights and the options available when addressing credit card debt can significantly affect your financial trajectory. Legal defenses exist to challenge credit card debt lawsuits, and while debt collectors can refuse settlement offers, strategic negotiation remains key. Acting promptly and informed can lead to a favorable resolution, aiding in regaining control over your financial health.
For more in-depth insights into credit card debt struggles, visit CBS News for legal strategies on dismissing lawsuits and CBS News for understanding debt settlement matters.