It is not easy to come to the realization that filing for bankruptcy is probably your best choice. This decision likely comes after months or years of financial hardship brought about by things like medical issues, job loss, divorce and more. While it is probably not something you imagined doing, filing for bankruptcy can actually be a smart way to regain your financial footing.
Lady Gaga talks about being millions in debt even after success
Lady Gaga has had a level of success in her 32 years that most artists can only dream of. Now she's got two Oscar nominations for A Star Is Born -- including one for Best Actress. Gaga, who was born Stefani Germanotta, became a very wealthy woman thanks to her album sales and concert tours.
Important advice from a New York bankruptcy judge
If one of your New Year's resolutions is to get your debt under control, a bankruptcy judge in New York's Northern District has some valuable advice. She notes that while sometimes the events that lead to bankruptcy are outside people's control -- like a job loss or an illness that results in exorbitant medical bills -- many of the factors that lead to bankruptcy filings are controllable.
Financial guru has some surprising advice for federal employees
The federal government shutdown is nearing the one-month mark, and some 800,000 federal employees have now gone without their first paycheck. They're becoming seriously worried about how they're going to continue to make ends meet and support their families. The shutdown has also caused ripple effects across communities -- impacting many private business owners and service providers.
How do you know it's time to file for bankruptcy?
Bankruptcy is a big step -- and not one that anyone should take without careful consideration. So when should you begin considering it?
What can you do to fight back against creditor harassment?
New York consumers who are dealing with an overwhelming amount of debt may find they have to deal with attempts from creditors to collect on past-due balances. Creditors and debt collectors have the right to seek payment from consumers, but there are limits to what they can do and say. In fact, consumers have the right to fight back against creditor harassment and inappropriate treatment.
How do you deal with holiday debt?
You promised yourself that you were going to take it easy on the spending this holiday season. However, things got away from you. You spent a little more on gifts than you intended. Your kids outgrew their formal Christmas outfits from last year, so you had to buy new ones. You saw some holiday decorations you just had to have.
