lien on house

[grayhair]

Due to major medical problems we got behind with credit card debts. We could pay nothing for a while but now can pay a little. Some are not satisfied and want twice our regular payment for several months or will place lien on house. I have offered to pay less but they said they will not accept less that the amount asked for. Short of paying the amount they asked for, which I don't have without not paying other more reasonable creditors, what can I do to keep out of court in Jacksonville, Florida.

 

[JETX]

First, you need to understand that creditors CANNOT place a lien on your house except in specific statutory conditions; such as contractors liens, homeowners associations, etc. This does NOT include credit card companies or collection agents.

I would suggest that you read your rights as provided in the FDCPA (Fair Debt Collections Practices Act) at http://www.ftc.gov/
You will see that it is illegal for debt collectors to make false and misleading statements of actions that they are prohibited from actually doing.

Don't misunderstand, the creditor can certainly take legal action against you and get a judgment. He can then take the judgment and file a lien on your property. However, Florida prohibits a judgment lien holder from doing anything against you as long as the property is homesteaded. The lien will stay in place until you sell or refinance your homesteaded property.

 

[DRUSS1964]

you may want to try contacting a non-profit debt counciling company maybe they will help
if they can they will step in and talk to the companies for you
here is one company you can try http://www.ameridebt.com/
but look around in your area