Ask Asa: Viewers Questions Answered
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If you are unemployed, you know it's a jobless jungle out there. To help you navigate the employment terrain and find a job, NY1 Employment reporter Asa Aarons has answers to some of the questions viewers have been sending in. Being without a job changes many things, most of all the way you handle money. Many letters I've received recently illustrate that point.
I received an income execution from a company claiming it has authority to collect an account I know nothing about. They are threatening to garnish my wages. How do I put a stop to this bogus claim?
Yvette
The Bronx
Yvette,
First I'll tell you what not to do. Many people will send a partial payment just to shut the collectors up. That can be interpreted as an admission you really owe the money and put you on the hook for the entire amount. If you owe the bill, pay it. If you don't, demand proof. If they can't provide it, your next step is a complaint to the Federal Trade Commission.
With the economy the way it is and with thousands of people not working, does it make more sense to go into bankruptcy?
Edward
Manhattan
Seven years applies to completed chapter 13 bankruptcies, Edward. The others, Chapter 7, 11 and 12, remain for 10 years from the date filed.
I know these days there are many so-called experts who can't wait to handle your bankruptcy for you. You can bet they won't be going broke any time soon.
The Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005 was launched to help make that decision with objective help. The act says 180 days before filing for bankruptcy, people have to get credit counseling from an agency approved by the FTC. Get a list and more info at the United States Department of Justice website at USDOJ.gov, and enter "bankruptcy" in the search engine.
The complete terms of the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005 can be found at here.
I know things are tough, but bankruptcy is a big step that can hurt you for years, so make that decision carefully.
If you have an employment story, a job, a new interview technique, or something you want to share with those looking for work or those doing the hiring, contact Asa Aarons at askasa@ny1.com.