Debt Help You Can Understand
Being contacted by a collector, sued over a debt, or buried in student loans is stressful. Start here: plain-English guides to your rights, your options, and how debt settlement really works, in English and Spanish.
Start With Your Situation
A collector is contacting me
Learn who the company is, what they must prove, and how to respond in writing.
See collector guidesI’ve been sued over a debt
Don’t ignore the papers. Here’s how deadlines work and where to get legal help.
What to do if you’re suedI’m struggling with student loans
Free federal options, private loan choices, and how to avoid student loan scams.
Student Debt Relief guideCollector & Creditor Guides
These are some of the names our clients see most often on collection letters and credit reports.
Midland Credit Management
One of the largest U.S. debt buyers. Often contacts people about old credit card and loan accounts.
Read the guideLVNV Funding / Resurgent
A debt buyer whose accounts are usually managed by Resurgent Capital Services.
Read the guideCavalry Portfolio Services
Collects on accounts bought by its affiliated debt-buying company.
Read the guidePortfolio Recovery Associates
Part of PRA Group, a large debt buyer that often files collection lawsuits.
Read the guideJefferson Capital Systems
A debt buyer that purchases credit card, retail and other consumer accounts.
Read the guideAmerican Express
An original creditor. Past-due Amex accounts may be handled in-house, by agencies, or in court.
Read the guideHow Debt Settlement Works
What it is
Debt settlement means negotiating with a creditor or collector to accept less than the full balance, either as a lump sum or a short payment plan. It is usually only possible on accounts that are already past due or charged off.
How a settlement usually works
- Confirm the debt is yours and the balance is right.
- Decide what you can realistically pay, as a lump sum or short plan.
- Make an offer and negotiate in writing.
- Get the final agreement in writing before you pay anything.
- Keep proof of payment and the final settlement letter.
Know the risks first
- Not every creditor will agree to settle.
- Creditors may keep collecting or file a lawsuit during negotiations.
- Settled accounts can still hurt your credit, and may show as “settled for less than the full balance.”
- Forgiven debt of $600 or more may be reported to the IRS and could be taxable.
Know Your Rights
When a collector contacts you
Your rights under the FDCPAMake them prove it
Debt validation & disputesHarassment
Collector communication rulesOfficial resources: CFPB debt collection help · FTC debt collection FAQs
Talk to a Bakersfield Credit Specialist
Free consultation in English or Spanish. We will review your situation, explain your options, and tell you honestly if you can handle it on your own.
This page is for educational purposes only and is not legal, tax, or financial advice. Maximum Score Builders is not a law firm and does not provide legal representation. Results vary, and no specific outcome is guaranteed. Company names are trademarks of their respective owners and are used for identification only; Maximum Score Builders is not affiliated with or endorsed by them.
Maximum Productions LLC, DBA Maximum Score Builders · 4646 Wilson Road, Suite 101, Bakersfield, CA 93309 · (661) 505-8085