Sometimes the best measures to prevent identity theft fail; in such cases, the next best thing is early, or rather, the earliest identity theft detection. How do you do that? How would you know when your identity has been stolen and misused? Fortunately, there are ways to do this:

-    Set up fraud alerts with the three major credit bureaus. This means that credit providers would be extra careful when opening a new line of credit in your name. Often, this is simply phone verification with the applicant before the credit is approved. However, if the thieves have enough of your information- this action may fail. Though not foolproof, it is often enough to dissuade the thief.

-    Credit caps – This is an excellent way to insure that you will never have to worry about paying for genuine or fraudulent purchases above a pre-determined amount. This action causes the credit company to freeze or suspend any further purchases once that amount has been reached.

-    Alerts for each credit and/or payment made through credit/ debit cards – Alerts are an excellent way to tell you in real time what is happening to your financial life. This is one of the easiest and most popular ways of identity theft detection. It helps you quickly identify activity which you did not initiate and allows you to take proactive measures immediately.

Source:   3 Methods for Easy Identity Theft Detection

Most people do not pay too much attention to mail identity theft, but this is much more dangerous than it seems. For one, you are most likely to have private information somewhere in your inbox that the identity thieves can put to fraudulent use.

Another reason is that the thieves would get ahold of all your contacts and possibly financial or other sensitive information for your friends, relatives and colleagues that are listed among the correspondence in the email inbox.

Something as simple as a birthday card can be used to commit fraud. For example: Happy Birthday, Grace! Remember when we grew up on Spruce Street in New York and you fell off the bike uncle Mike bought you? I still laugh. Glad you’re moving closer to me. Can’t wait until you get to Maine!!! (We need to find me a husband)  Love Always, Jane Apple.

In this one birthday card, a thief has gotten the recipients’ full name (including their maiden name), a former street name and city where they lived, two family member names, their birthday and where they will be moving to in the near future. Many of the things needed to prove identity for credit purposes at any time.

Yet another way that mail identity theft can harm you and your dear ones is when the thieves appeal to some or all of your friends/ family, seemingly on your behalf, for funds. There have been many instances where friends sent money for their “stranded friend/ family member,” only to discover later that they had been duped by hackers.

It is important, therefore, never to keep private information in your emails, even if seems innocent enough. Ensure that you delete any such email that comes with login and passwords for any financial and/ or non-financial accounts. Remember, mail identity theft can jeopardize your financial security, cause havoc among your friends and family and leave you all vulnerable to further financial devastation.

Source:  Mail Identity Theft – More Dangerous Than It Looks

Some of the best ways to protect against identity theft are by using common sense. Of course, you will also need to educate yourself on how identity theft happens and how often it happens, so you will understand what will give you the best protection.

-    Change your passwords often and never keep them written down in your wallet, handbag or stored on or near your computer.
-    When accessing your bank from internet cafes remember to clear all passwords, logins and if possible the cache in the history folder. If you cannot personally clear the history- ask an employee to do so in front of you.
-    Always watch for the little lock on websites. That lock is designed to show when you are using a secure network.
-    All bank and financial transactions should always be made only on websites that start with “https://”; the “s” is for secure. If the website address reads only “http://”, it is not secure and not safe for financial transactions. Also, ensure that the site does encryption of vital data.
-    Be very alert about messages that ask for personal information through email; be even more cautious if it uses an “emergency” as the reason for needing the information immediately.
-    Closely monitor your credit card statements for excess payments or payments or transactions that you do not remember making.
-    Shred financial documents you do not need to prevent identity theft. A decent shredder can be bought for around $20. Diamond cut shredders are best.

Source:  Identity Theft – Protect Yourself Today

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The solution is to ensure that you are protected against credit card theft to the best of your ability. A few no-cost suggestions are listed below:

-    Keep your credit cards carefully in a wallet or purse in front of your body instead of in your back pocket or on your shoulder.
-    Take advantage of credit card fraud protection assurance from your credit card provider. In such cases, all you have to do is reach the nearest phone and inform the credit company of the loss of the card. By doing this, you would be exempt from paying for any purchases made after the company was informed of the loss.
-    Have the number on hand (more than likely toll free) and/or any other means to contact the credit card provider. Remember if you lose the card- how will get the number off the back of the card?
-    Photocopy your credit cards for ready reference of the numbers and other details in the event of credit card theft. Also photocopy all identifications in the event that those are lost as well, in order to prove your identity.

Source:   Credit Card Theft – Be Protected

The bankruptcy code 523 is the clause which describes or lists the types of debts that cannot be included for discharge, even when you file for bankruptcy. These are debts that the person who files for bankruptcy will still have to pay regardless of financial circumstances.

Among the debts that fall under the bankruptcy code 523 are:

-    Education loans
-    Taxes and custom duty
-    Any type of credit that was obtained fraudulently
-    Any debt not listed under section 521 (1)
-    Funds obtained through embezzlement of any defalcation while acting in a fiduciary capacity
-    Alimony, spousal support or child support payments
-    Any willful destruction of anyone’s property
-    Fines, penalty or fee payable to the government
-    Monies owed for injury or death caused while driving under the influence of drugs, alcohol or any other substance
-    Funds payable following an unreviewable order or decree, or consent order of the USA

There are other items on the list. What the bankruptcy code 523 seeks to do is clarify all such debts that will not come under the general protection of bankruptcy status, where the Court automatically stays all debts.

Source:   What is bankruptcy code 523?

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The cost and process of voluntary bankruptcy differs very much from that of an involuntary bankruptcy. Before you decide to make use of this legal proceeding, you need to understand the pros and cons of such process. Each state has its own rules, so ensure that you do sufficient research and weigh your options carefully. Bankruptcy follows filers for a very long time and is not a process that should be undertaken haphazardly.

If approved, the court would then decide what assets would be sold to enable the creditors to recover whatever possible of their outstanding debt; and what assets would be protected under a clause known as “minimum livelihood necessities.” Voluntary bankruptcy is a double-edged sword to be used with extreme caution. It is best to seek the advice of a well- qualified, experienced attorney to guide you through understanding the process before you decide to file for voluntary bankruptcy.

Source: What is voluntary bankruptcy?

There is plenty that can be accomplished by merely sharing your identity theft story:

•You build awareness about the “modus operandi” (method of operation)
•Prevent the same identity theft story from happening again to others with the same vulnerabilities
•Bring your case to the attention of the authorities so they can work on finding ways to track such theft or build measures for safeguarding against future crimes
•Help in identifying the thieves and bringing such said person to  justice
•You will teach that there is no shame in being a victim and that the power can be taken back from the criminals

Besides, when you come out and share your experience with others it can help you heal. Most victims explain that they felt violated, frustrated, filled with rage, depressed among others – and sharing the identity theft story facilitates and accelerates healing.

Source:  Share Your Identity Theft Story – Save Others from a Similar Fate

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Many people justify their action by saying to themselves “what could someone do with my identity?” The thief could use the stolen information to make expensive purchases using your credit card, open a new credit card account in your name, take a major loan in your name – and even get arrested using your name. When such things happen, the “best case scenario” is that you have to pay some thousands of dollars for credit that you have never used. The worse can be anything from complete financial ruin to jail for fraud or even for a crime that you never committed.

Unfortunately, until it is proven that you are a victim of identity theft; you will be fully liable for all that the perpetrator does in your name or under your line of available credit. This is where identity theft lawyers could be priceless for you, as they would find the best ways to protect your interests when such calamity happens.

Source:  Why Identity Theft Lawyers Are Important?

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Credit fraud alert is an extra precaution added by the credit bureaus for your protection. This means that whenever there is an application made for a loan, new credit card, or any other type of credit account using your social security number-   you will be contacted by phone for a one-on-one verification that the credit application is indeed being opened by you and/ or is being completed with your knowledge.

Setting the credit fraud alert is very easy. Call each of the credit bureaus fraud departments’ at the following numbers and instruct them to have your file flagged for credit fraud.

-              Equifax Consumer Fraud Division  (https://www.alerts.equifax.com)
Phone: 800-525-6285 or: 404-885-8000
Fax: 770-375-2821

-              Experian’s National Consumer Assistance (http://www.experian.com/fraud)
Phone: 888-397-3742

-              Fraud Victim Assistance Department (no online fraud alert application available)
Phone: 800-680-7289
Fax: 714-447-6034

Your credit file will be flagged within 24 hours and you will receive a confirmation by mail within 1-2 weeks. If more than 3 weeks have passed without any such written confirmation, call again to inquire about the request you initiated for credit fraud alert.

Source:  Protect Yourself From Credit Fraud

Data theft is an easy crime to commit because most people do not stop to make a critical analysis regarding the inqueries that come from such websites because they look so real. As an educated consumer it is necessary to keep in mind that there is personal information that you should not provide over the phone or by email under any circumstances- especially if you did not initiate the contact. Here are some of the “not-for-disclosure” items:

-    SSN number
-    Customer ID and/ or password for any bank accounts, financial transactions or websites
-    Date of birth
-    Place of birth
-    Yours or your mothers’ maiden names
-    Your work place address
-    Your residential address
-    Your phone number
-    Your cell phone number
-    Your bank account number
-    The answer to secret security questions

Beware when any entity asks you for any of the above or similar types of information. Alert the bank/ email provider/ business entity etc., through a contact which you have initiated explaining that you have received such requests and verify immediately its accuracy to prevent data theft.

Source:   Is data theft easy?

While it is a good idea to educate yourself on matters regarding bankruptcy, you might not be able to learn all that there is in the short time you have to present your case to the Court. The bankruptcy consultant will provide you with invaluable insights on how best to help and prepare yourself while filing for bankruptcy- both before, during and after the case is closed. There are even instances when the consultant can point you to methods that will possibly prevent you from filing for bankruptcy altogether.

The bankruptcy consultant is normally able to provide you with superior debt management plans that can lead to elimination or great reduction of your debt. The consultant will also be instrumental in helping you restore your credit score and records.

Source:  Bankruptcy Consultant – Your SOS response

Under the Chapter 11 bankruptcy code, the debtor will remain in possession of the company; while the trustee gains the powers to re-structure the company and redirect it towards financial freedom. The debtor is empowered by the Court to accept or reject any new contracts. The debtor also has the freedom to look for and obtain loans or other means of financing that would be required to salvage the company.

During the imposition of the Chapter 11 bankruptcy code, the debtor is protected from litigation and creditors as it enjoys a Court ordered stay against debt collection.

Creditors in such cases, however, can file against the invocation of the Chapter 11 bankruptcy code by the company and demand payment. The Court would then hear the complaints of the  creditors and rule whether the restructuring of the company can solve the present financial crisis to cover all debts. If the court determines that the company should be allowed to recover financially, it would then order the creditors to stop collection attempts.

Source:  Chapter 11 bankruptcy code – What is that?

Myth – If you have a job you are not eligible to file for bankruptcy.
Truth – The US Bankruptcy code specifically says that you should have a job to be eligible to file     under Chapter 13.

Myth – You cannot include medical bills under bankruptcy
Truth – All unsecured debts are dischargeable under bankruptcy and that includes medical bills,     credit card bills, personal loans, and so on.

Myth – You have to repay your debts in full when you file for bankruptcy under Chapter 13
Truth – Chapter 13 under the US Bankruptcy Code advises repayment of debts that range from     0% to 100%. The actual percentage is always dependent upon your financial history,     priority of debts, your present property and the value of your disposable income.

Myth – When you file for bankruptcy you lose everything you have; you are literally left with     just the clothes on your back
Truth – As many as 95% of the bankruptcy cases filed do not cover a number of assets and hence     the debtor keeps them. An attorney would be able to help with salvaging a good portion     of assets.

Source:   Bankruptcy Myths Exploded For Your Benefit

It is not as simple as it may seem to file for bankruptcy. Bankruptcy court cases can be real nightmares, unless you are thoroughly prepared for the fight, which there will undoubtedly be one. Also, unless you know all of the legalities of bankruptcy, you may not be able to save your personal property while in the process of declaring bankruptcy.

In order to safeguard against such a devaststing crisis it is strongly advised to seek legal advice from bankruptcy court case professional. It is important to view the costs as a necessary expenditure on your way to financial prosperity. In the long run, with the help of such expert advice you may be able to save much more of your property and have a more favorable outcome from your bankruptcy court case.

Source:  Bankruptcy Court Cases – The Risks Of Filing

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The person who is filing for bankruptcy should be aware that court ordered payments such as alimony, child support and maintenance are also exempt from protection under bankruptcy rules. If in your particular case there are any of the aforementioned debts, it would be best to consult a lawyer regarding the best way to proceed under the circumstances. It is important to be aware and fully understand all the exceptions that Bankruptcy Code 523 allows for while filing for bankruptcy.

In many cases, after consulting with lawyers, filing for bankruptcy does not seem as much of a financially sound planas it had before. It is important that you educate yourself regarding the Bankruptcy Code 523 before taking this drastic step. The financial implications affect your stability now, as well as, in the future.

Source:  Bankruptcy Code 523 – Exceptions To Discharge Of Debts

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The Disadvantages

-    If one spouse filed for bankruptcy earlier he/she cannot file under joint bankruptcy
-    If the husband-wife combined debt exceeds the limit permissible under Chapter 13, you cannot file under joint bankruptcy

The Advantages

-    Saves money on legal counseling fees
-    Each spouse can file for personal exemptions and thereby protect more assets together
-    Collection agencies will not hound one spouse with requests for payment
-    Easier to file for joint bankruptcy than to file separately

Review information carefully for all the advantages and disadvantages of filing bankruptcy through online research. You may find that many terms are different depending on where you live. You also need to contact a bankruptcy expert to receive case specific advice about your financial situation. Be careful when you make this decision since this will affect both spouses credit reports. Your decision should take into account your goals, assets, future financial obligations and the affect this decision will have on both spouses as well as any children in the family.

Source:  Joint bankruptcy – Is this a Good Idea?

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First of all, not everyone will qualify for bankruptcy. After the bankruptcy laws were amended in 2005, there were many sub-clauses (for example, Chapter 7) that would give consumers the ability to redress their debts without filing for bankruptcy.

Monetary Implications Of Bankruptcy

Before you file for bankruptcy you will need to undergo bankruptcy credit score counseling 180 days prior to the bankruptcy filing. You will also need a certain amount of expert legal counseling that may cost you anywhere between $1,000 to $2,000. Bankruptcy is definitely not the cheap alternative, even when you have reached the absolute rock bottom with your finances.

Credit Report/ Score Implications Of Bankruptcy

This is one of the most significant implications when filing bankruptcy as this will remain visible on your credit report to financial companies, employers and anyone else who requests your  credit score report. It will take 11 years before this is removed from the report; and that is a very long time.

It is possible to improve your credit score over time with proper financial discipline and smarter financial choices. However, this a very arduous process and can have lasting effects for years to come. You must always keep in mind your financial goals and the timetable for reaching those goals before deciding which course of financial relief to utilize.

Source:  Implications Of Bankruptcy – Is This Freedom From Debt Worth It?

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1.    Student loans – This loan is not covered by bankruptcy solutions. Hence, if you are in trouble due to your student loans and declare bankruptcy in the hope that this will solve the problem, be aware that this is not true. You will still be liable to pay the student loan back and you will have the report of a bankruptcy on your credit report for the next 11 years. In order to seek relief for student loan payments you should contact your lenders and try to renegotiate the terms of your repayment. Some options are an “income- contingent” repayment plan as well as temporary forbearance.

2.    Child Support -  This is another field that will not fall under the relief of bankruptcy. In the eyes of the law this debt is not going to be relieved without your actual payments. Child support and alimony are not considered debts as much s they are considered financial obligations that do not warrant bankruptcy relief.

3.    Criminal fees/ fines – No bankruptcy solutions will delete criminal fees or fines. Hence, declaring bankruptcy will not resolve such issues. Again, this type of debt is considered unforgivable and thus must be paid by the individual. You can attempt to enter into a new repayment plan but often times you must show the court extreme financial hardship in order to qualify for a change in repayment terms.

Source:  Bankruptcy Solutions – What Is Not Covered Under This Umbrella?

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There is more- this identity theft insurance provider/ company/ agency will also assist you to hire, pay and consult with experts required to deal with creditors to clear and restore your good name. Identity theft can be a heavy blow to your credit report and score if not handled well and expeditiously so the damage is contained at the lowest possible casualty levels.

Check with your insurance provider today and take out this type of insurance against identity theft. With hackers getting more and more ingenious at stealing sensitive information, it is very important that you have your security net in place. Such identity theft insurance is a must if you wish to be spared of the trouble and dangers of identity theft. Your credit identity is one of the most vital aspects of your life. Your finances and sensitive information should be cared for with the same tenacity that you care for your loved ones.

Source:   Insurance Identity Theft Can Protect You

This has become a “business” today since the technological advancement is making it easier everyday to use hacking systems and tap into people’s personal (financial) data. This is why it is very important that every person know what credit theft is and is able to set up measures that guard against such theft.

Most banks acknowledged this potential danger by issuing second and third tier passwords and PINs to prevent online credit theft. Ensure that you are aware of and subscribe to such measures to make your credit card use more secure.  At the same time, beware of keeping any sensitive information in your email inbox – since emails can be hacked quite easily in this technological age. This also applies to setting up passwords on the internet. Be careful when you create passwords. Passwords should not be easily figured out or you could be the next potential victim of credit theft. It is advised to NOT use birthdays, social security numbers, addresses or family names as passwords because someone with enough time and ingenuity can then breach your accounts with much more ease.

Source:  Credit Theft – What is this?

Just like a doctor would advice a patient on what has caused them to become ill so they will not get sick again; debt counseling teaches you how to manage your money so you will not fall into trouble with your finances again. It is very important that you understand the why before you can appreciate the solution. You are less likely to abuse your available credit if you understood how the bulk of smaller purchases compounded the large debt you accumulated.

Debt counseling also teaches you how to use your finances to increase your credit score and much more, such as:

-    How to save for an emergency fund
-    How to find the best interest rates
-    How to make and stick to a monthly budget
-    How to find the best health/ home/ auto insurance quotes

… and much more. Debt counseling is a priceless gift – make sure you value it as such.

Source:  When Debt Counseling Is Needed?

1.    Debt counselors – These are the agencies who have answers to all your debt questions, including the “where do I go for credit now?” one. Debt counselors can put you in touch with experienced debt consolidation agencies, credit repair agencies  and poor score credit lenders. Debt counselors are the leaders in guidance when you want to  eliminate your outstanding debts.

2.    The Internet – Use the Internet as your main ally. You will find  answers to many of your debt and credit lender questions with a google or Bing search. With the help of the data on the internet you can figure out which are the lenders that offer the best rates and how best you can negotiate for these rates.

3.    Your old creditors – Most of the time, old creditors are willing to renegotiate your debts so you can pay them off and even reestablish lines of credit with them. Open communication  with previous creditors and show why you need their cooperation in order to get your financial matters in order.

Source:  How do you find poor credit lenders?

1.    Wasting your money – Loans for individuals with low credit scores are available, true. However, these loans come at a price- higher interest rates. This means you actually use more of your hard-earned money in order to pay back the loan. This extra money could be used to purchase something else or put towards retirement savings.

2.    Always under scrutiny – A poor credit score says tells the credit bureaus that the person is someone who cannot handle finances responsibly. This makes creditors wary and you will always be under greater scrutiny. You will also need more collateral and/ or a co-signer when applying for a loan.

3.    You cannot make a mistake – High scorers can skip payments infrequently and be forgiven, but not a consumer with a low credit score. Many creditors panic if a low credit scorer misses a payment or shows any deviation of the repayment terms. In response, the creditor  can alter the terms of your agreement by raising your interest rates.

Source:  Why do you need to increase your credit score?

Are you in debt and lost in a financial maze? Are you suffocated by unpaid bills? Are you hounded and harassed by collection agencies? You can put a stop to these stressful situations by utilizing the help of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Research the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act or go to an attorney and seek help. Not only you will find ways to get relief from the undue harassment from the collection agencies, but you will also find direction and advice on how to seek appropriate help to repay these debts.

Source:  Fair Debt Collection Practices Act Is For Your Protection

Many people who have gone through bankruptcy have bounced back financially; some have even become multi- billionaires, such as Donald Trump. Look around you and you may find plenty of examples of people who have turned their lives around because they have tasted the bitter pill of bankruptcy.

Use the post bankruptcy period to dissect the past and find out what went wrong with your finances. Understanding your missteps will enable you to avoid repeating them. Avoid the pitfalls that led you to bankruptcy in the first place and you can rebuild your life again – slowly, but steadily.

Source:   Credit Report After Bankruptcy Is Bleak – But There Is Still Hope For You

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So what do you get to keep after you file for bankruptcy? Each state has its own exemptions list. In many states you are permitted to choose between following either the State or Federal law; in some states you are forced to follow the state laws in exclusivity.  The list of bankrupt exempt property varies widely from state to state and from federal regulations so be sure to research applicable laws when you consider filing for bankruptcy.

Consulting with an attorney experienced with the bankruptcy laws will prove to be the best decision you can make. It is very easy to trap yourself into  losing assets you could have otherwise protected. A bankruptcy attorney can also recommend which paths allow you to salvage more of your financial security.

Source:  Bankrupt Exempt Property – What Is That?

As part-time work, this can be quite rewarding both financially and on a more personal level. You will be helping people in a desperate situation as well as turning a profit for yourself. Using a consultant is a feasible alternative for someone who is intimidated by financial attorneys or simply can not afford one at the moment. It is also a great way for someone to gauge the severity of their financial situation and find less devastating alternatives.

Bankruptcy training can be beneficial to anyone running a business. It is good to know what rights you have and what responsibilities are coming your way. In case you run into rough weather financially, you could refer to the information you were taught during the training and do your best to salvage your business and assets.

Source:  Get Bankruptcy Training And Start A Home Business

-    Raise the money through a loan obtained with joint collateral. To use this option you will need to find someone who would be willing to co-sign a loan with you, with one or both of you putting up collateral to raise the required money.

-    You could sell a portion of your business to raise working capital. Many times, all that is needed is a small fund to roll the business. Try selling part of your assets and raise the needed funds.

-    Enter into a partnership to raise the required funds. The idea of a joint venture can look very lucrative to an investor who wants a share in your ailing company if you can show that in the future there is the potential for profit sharing.

There are many more alternatives; some easy and some not so easy. Finding alternatives to bankruptcy is well worth the time and effort.

Source:  3 Great Ways To Settle Debt Without Bankruptcy

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Before answering this question, you need to understand that there are many types of articles available on the internet. Some are quite accurate and up-to- date – you will find these on Government portals and reputed credit repair agencies; some are general and informative and may or may not be updated as changes are made to laws or even reflect discrepancies based on the state in which you live; while some are written only to  attract traffic with keywords – these are usually not very accurate.

How do you know which are the bankruptcy articles you can trust? Here are some guiding points:

-    Date of the article and website
-    The sources quoted for the articles
-    Type of article – usually sales/ marketing oriented articles tend to highlight the points that help selling/ marketing
-    Expertise of the author
-    Government websites are usually the best sources for informative bankruptcy articles

Source:  Bankruptcy Articles – Is The Information Accurate?

It is best not to assume anything in such a situation, take the case to an experienced bankruptcy attorney who will look into all the facts before advising you on a proper course of action. Do not cut corners when it comes to bankruptcy. Bankruptcy has lasting repercussions for years to come.

It is a good idea – if one of the spouses runs a company or any type of commercial endeavor – to clearly separate the personal and business finances. This is especially important, in the event of something going amiss, so the bankruptcy clauses will not affect the other spouses financial security.

Plan for the business going under even when it is doing well. In today’s economy, a business that is thriving one month can find itself suffering financially the next.

Source:  Bankruptcy And Marriage Can Be Messy

1.    Never leave the ATM stubs in the ATM booth. If you do not need it, tear it into tiny pieces or run it through a shredder. Do not throw it away merely crumpling it into a ball. This can be picked up and used for identity theft by experienced criminals. If you do not plan on taking the receipt with you, there are machines that give you the option to not have the receipt printed. Check your balance and the screen and skip the printed receipt.

2.    Never give your password or any other information pertaining to your bank accounts over email or phone, especially if you have not initiated the contact. In case you are contacted by anyone (either through email or phone) ask them their name and address and offer to come in person and give the required details. If they claim the matter is urgent and they are from your financial institution, take their information and inform them that you will call or go in person to your local branch. If you are discouraged from doing so or the person insists- a red flag should go up in your mind. Immediately end the conversation and report it to your financial institution. If you feel that you may be falling victim to identity thieves- file a police report.

3.    Never throw any bills in the garbage without shredding them first. Buy a shredder that cuts paper into small diamond shapes as opposed to merely shredding them in strips.  Identity theft criminals go through the waste and can pick up valuable information from bills. They can go through great lengths to obtain your vital information. Make the process difficult. It is also a good practice to split the garbage from your shredder into two or three bags and dispose of them over several days.

4.    Request that all bills and alerts be sent by email. This way you will avoid the risk of having someone going through your mail and picking up sensitive financial information. Be aware of when bills are expected to arrive. If you find that your bills are not arriving or arrive damaged, that can be a sign that someone else is viewing your information.

Source:   4 Ways To Prevent Identity Theft

This is when you will need an identity theft lawyer. This is a professional who will be able to guide you through the required legalities to minimize your liability and salvage as much as possible of your reputation with the credit bureaus.  The best option is to retain an identity theft lawyer as soon as you realize you have fallen victim to such a crime. Doing nothing enables the criminal to further victimize you.

Source: When Do You Need To Get An Identity Theft Lawyer?

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With these simple steps you can catch identity theft crimes early:

-    Check your credit card bills carefully each month
-    Check your bank account transaction statements at least once every month and ensure that all the entries you find are transactions which you have authorized
-    Obtain your credit report every four months (you can request a free credit report from one of the three major credit bureaus  by visiting www.annualcreditreport.com ) and check for discrepancies

Each one these actions will serve as a safety net to protect against extended criminal activity to your financial life. Being vigilant and aware of the practical dangers can prove to be the best defense against identity theft crimes.

Source:   Identity theft alert – Being aware of the signs

1.   Use the Internet – Nothing is more powerful than the Net when seeking information. The internet enables you to tap into financial institutions in your local region or state, as well as, into the financial market across the nation.  Conduct internet searches and investigate financial institutions before divulging sensitive financial information.

2.   Talk to people – You are neither the first nor the last person on this earth who suffers from a poor credit score. Talk to people who are more financially sound and seek their advice on financial habits. Use their experience to guide you to financial health.

3.   Consult a credit repair agency – Many credit repair agencies offer assistance and financial guidance for loans. Find out whether your credit repair agency does too. If not ask for references; you may find a great poor credit lender already being used by one of your friends or family members.

Source:  Poor Credit Lenders Are Plenty – Do You Know How to Find the Best

You will hear a lot about debt negotiation during the credit repair process. What is the role of this type of negotiation and why does it get so much importance? You will agree that every cent saved is a cent earned, right? Well, that is the answer.

When a credit counselor or agency negotiates your debts, they ensure that you are charged the minimum possible both in interest and in fines (and penalties for late payment). This means a drastic reduction in the size of your debt; which in turn means that it would be easier for you to repay the loan.

You can do debt negotiation on your own; but most people prefer professionals to do this job because it does require the special skill of effective confrontation and a talent for getting your opponent to agree to your proposition. The more money you are able to save the better it is for your financial outlook. So, can you see the importance of financial negotiations in the process of credit repair?

Source:  The Role of Debt Negotiation in Credit Repair

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Here are Two identities theft methods cyber criminals use most:

They send you an email that connects to a ghost website that looks identical (but is false) to that of your bank and asks you to verify your account under the ruse that there are “some major discrepancies”. Shocked and eager to handle the mater quickly you log in using that website – and the criminals copy your bank information. Once the information is in the wrong hands, there are a number of things the criminals can do to cause devastation to your financial life.

You receive an email saying that you need to key in your password in order to update your account details or your email will be blocked. You type in your email password and the next day you are locked out of it. The criminals have taken hold of your email and all the information therein. Keep in mind all of the information that is sent to your email and keep your password as secure as you do your social security number.

Source:  Identity Theft – Two Most Effective Ways Criminals Use

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Do not ignore general money issues no matter how small they are. Take action immediately when you find that you cannot pay a bill on time, or that you rely on credit cards too much. Take measures to straighten up your finances before the problem snowballs into a disaster.

You will be amazed to know that 8 out of 10 people who file for bankruptcy had trouble with their finances right from their teens. It takes years, sometimes decades for the bad habits with finances to develop into bankruptcy. DO NOT wait that long to realize you have a problem; take action when the first general money issues catch your attention.

Source:   Watch Out For General Money Issues – It Could Lead To Bankruptcy

Money management is the art of managing your living expenses within your income. For most people it can be difficult, for some impossible. You will be surprised to learn that debt, money mismanagement and financial insecurity has little if anything to do with the amount you earn.

For those who do not practice good money management principles, no matter how much they earn they would still run short. For those who appreciate and follow these principles, no matter how little they earn they tend to manage and prosper.

If you constantly feel that “if I had more money I would have done better,” it is time you learn about money management and how to apply it to your life. This is because your predicament has nothing to do with the money you earn and is realistically more about the money you spend.

Start by making a budget, consulting a finance professional and genuinely looking at the bigger picture. The solutions are often surprisingly simple to grasp and apply.

Source:   Why Money Management Is Important?

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This is possible only when you keep close track of your expenditures on a day-to-day basis. Rest assured this is not as difficult as it seems. All you need to do is enter a statement of accounts every night and review it briefly. As you go through this exercise every night, you will gradually be able to see where you are losing money.

Just one cappuccino less a day can turn into $150 by the end of a month – and this is only one trivial expense. Plug the little holes that cause financial drainage, and you will be financially safer. This is what good money management is all about.

Source:  What is good money management?

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One of the most popular bankruptcy myths is that you can start with a clean credit slate. Nothing is further from truth. You will in fact, carry the stigma of being a risky investment for 10 long years once you have filed for bankruptcy.

Another popular bankruptcy myths is that all your debts will be discharged after the filing. Again, the truth is different. Certain debts such as alimony, child support and student loans do not come under the purview of the bankruptcy filing.

Another very dangerous bankruptcy myths is that if one’s spouse files for bankruptcy, the other will not be affected. Wrong – if there are joint accounts, it will affect the spouse.

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If you are looking at it carefully, all identity thefts are criminal activities; however, in this case, by criminal identity theft it’s meant more than just breaking the law. It means that this is done with criminal intent – such as planning embezzlement of money, stealing jobs or benefits, acquiring false insurance payments, and so on.

When you talk about criminal identity theft this is a serious matter than cannot be mistaken to be anything but a crime. Every person out there is vulnerable to such activity – especially if you are active on the Internet.

The best defense against criminal identity theft is presence of mind and alertness. Be always alert about any changes in your account, billing, Internet passwords, etc. Stay alert, stay safe.

Why should your credit report after bankruptcy be important anymore? You might not think you have anything to worry about regarding debts and payments once you have filed for bankruptcy and the deed is done. After all, you will wear the “mark of the beast” for the next 10 years – so what the heck, what is there to see any more?

But this is a wrong-headed approach. There’s plenty to see and check on your credit report after bankruptcy is filed. For one, you need to know that the date is entered correctly. A lot can change in legalities regarding your property and debts based on that date.

Second, you should check that ALL your debtors have been included on your credit report after bankruptcy. It should not happen that you get one or two old creditors beating at your door even after bankruptcy has been filed, just because they were not included.

Here are a few steps that will keep you safe and protected from harm:

* Verify closely all your bills (credit cards, debit cards, utility bills, etc)
* Scan your bills and keep them on your hard disk with a strong password; in this way, even if your computer is hacked, nobody will get to your financial data
* Instruct your bank to inform you if there is any unusual trend in transactions
* Keep a close watch on identity theft news, so you’ll know how what are the latest developments in the field.

Most people if asked will reply that they know the real implications of bankruptcy. One direct outcome will be that obtaining loans will become very difficult. Another will be that the interest charged for any loans will be ridiculously high. A third aspect will be that obtaining a credit card will not be as easy as it was previously.

These are a few very obvious implications of bankruptcy. However, there is more to it; factors and outcomes that do not show immediately. For example, relationships with friends and relatives may suddenly become strained. There will be stress on the employer-employee relationship; there could even be the danger of job loss. You will not be able to start a business until the bankruptcy is removed from your credit report.

Therefore, beware of the hidden implications of bankruptcy. This might not seem a bright idea, once you have a glimpse of what all you will tend to lose.

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Find a person who will be willing to lend his good name (his or her credit score should be high and his credit report impeccable) as a co-signee to your loan.  His assurance to the bank or financial institutions will indicate that he will make good on the loan in case you fail to do so.

Beware that default payment involves far more than repayment in such cases. The credit score and report of your co-signee will reflect such failures, and his score will be degraded. Be very careful about the repayment schedule of such loans, as this will reflect your friend or relative in a bad light and damage his or her credit standing.

Do not wait for a disaster to show you the importance of financial management. Start now and you will be happy you did. Here are five steps to help you avoid problems with money:

1. Credit cards – first of all you need to realize that you can very well live without credit cards. A debit card will be just as good. However, let us say that you must absolutely have one or two – ensure that you do not use more than 25 percent of their credit limit.

Use the credit card only when you are one-hundred-percent sure that you can repay the whole amount when the bill comes due. In this way you are using the credit to your advantage. While your (saved) money will be earning high returns, you are using the credit card money for free – as long as you pay it in full when the bill arrives. This gives you usually 45 days of credit.

2. Always look out for less interest – bargain hard when you take out a loan. Strive to get the lowest interest rate possible. This applies to credit cards as well!

Even though you should always pay your credit bills in full when presented, you should still look for the lowest interest rates and annual fees.  Transfer all the high interest loans to lower interest loans wherever possible. You will save a small fortune by doing so.

3. Save – an effortless way to get the lowest interest rates is to build up your savings. It is very important that you have money not only for emergencies that can strike anytime, but also to show you as a good investment to your prospective creditors. A large amount in savings shows that you are managing your finances well, besides the fact that you have a fall-back amount in case things take a turn for the worse and problems with money begin to mount.

4. Invest – use a good portion if not all of your savings for low-risk, long-term investments. It’s easy to have your money multiply if you know how to invest and where. Don’t worry; you need not study to become a whiz kid in financial matters. You can always trust your fortune with mutual funds and/or professionals who do this type of work for a small fee. Use only those who are highly reputed in the market.

5. Buy real estate – there is no better way to invest your money than buying real estate. Recession is a great time to buy since the prices will touch bottom, which will give you great profits when the market eventually rights itself. No matter what you buy in real estate, it’s bound to give you 3-5 times returns on your capital within a short time of five to ten years.

Adopt these five simple principles and you will always be free of problems with money.

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Find a person who will be willing to lend his good name (his or her credit score should be high and his credit report impeccable) as a co-signee to your loan.  His assurance to the bank or financial institutions will indicate that he will make good on the loan in case you fail to do so.

Beware that default payment involves far more than repayment in such cases. The credit score and report of your co-signee will reflect such failures, and his score will be degraded. Be very careful about the repayment schedule of such loans, as this will reflect your friend or relative in a bad light and damage his or her credit standing.

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One of the most important benefit is that it takes the financial pressure off your shoulders. When you make the decision, the relief is almost palpable. Bankruptcy also teaches you a very valuable – not to mention expensive – lesson about finances. It tells you that you are responsible for the consequences of your actions. Nothing can drive this point home better than your bankruptcy status. Many people turn a over new leaf after such an episode, and start valuing the importance of proper financial management.

Lastly, one of the best advantages of bankruptcy is that you can start from the beginning; with a clean slate!