If you owe money and cannot pay, a creditor or debt collector may try to collect the debt. This can include phone calls, letters, lawsuits, or taking money from your paycheck or bank account after they get a court judgment against you.
Many people deal with debt collection. You still have rights, and there are steps you can take depending on your situation.
Use the sections below to find information that matches what is happening to you.
Debt collectors are contacting me
Debt collectors may call, send letters, or contact you about a debt. There are rules about how they can contact you and what they are allowed to say.
Collectors cannot harass you or threaten you. In some cases, you can stop them from contacting you.
Learn more:
I cannot afford to pay my debts
If you cannot afford to pay your debts, you may still have options. You may be able to set up a payment plan, negotiate a settlement, or get legal help.
It is often better to explore your options early before a debt collector files a lawsuit.
Learn more:
- I can’t afford to pay my debts. What can I do?
- How to set up a debt payment plan
- How to get a debt settlement in court
I was sued for a debt
A creditor or debt collector may start a lawsuit to collect a debt. This usually begins when you receive court papers called a Summons and Complaint.
Do not ignore court papers. If you do not respond, the court can decide the case against you.
Learn more:
- What is a Summons and Complaint for a debt case?
- I am being sued for a medical debt. What should I do?
A debt collector has a judgment against me
If the court decides the case against you, the creditor may get a judgment. A judgment allows them to try to collect the money.
Learn more:
- Vacate a default judgment in a consumer debt case. This is how to ask the judge to change their decision in a case you missed.
- I received an information subpoena from a debt collector. This is a legal document that allows the debt collector to find out about your money and assets.
A debt collector is taking my money
If a creditor has a judgment, they may try to collect the debt by taking money from your paycheck or freezing your bank account.
Some income and benefits are protected by law.
Learn more:
Get legal help
Free legal help may be available if you are dealing with debt collectors or a debt lawsuit.
Search for legal aid near you using LawHelp’s Legal Directory. Select “money and taxes” then “debt collection” to find organizations that work on debt cases.
Last Reviewed: April 2, 2026