Warning signs that borrowing terms deserve a closer look.
Predatory lending describes unfair or abusive lending practices that can obscure costs or exploit borrowers.
Credit Repair Choices
Consumer Rights
Why payday-loan rules and costs vary by state.
Payday loans are short-term loans that can carry high costs and may be regulated differently by each state.
Closed Accounts Reported as Open: Why That Credit Report Error Matters
The CFPB lists closed accounts reported as open as a common credit report error. Here is why that detail matters and what records to gather before disputing it.
Time-Barred Debt: When a Collector Cannot Sue and Why State Law Still Matters
Collectors may still contact consumers about old debt, but there are important limits. Here is what “time-barred” means, what collectors cannot do, and why dates and state law matter.
What a Debt Validation Notice Should Tell You
A debt collector usually has to give validation information early in the process. Here is what to look for, what the 30-day window means, and when missing information can be a warning sign.
How the FTC fits into consumer financial protection.
The Federal Trade Commission enforces consumer-protection laws and publishes guidance about scams and identity theft.
What the CFPB does for consumers.
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau supervises parts of the consumer-finance market and accepts consumer complaints.
The law that bars discrimination in credit decisions.
The Equal Credit Opportunity Act prohibits credit discrimination based on protected characteristics.
Why lenders must disclose key borrowing costs.
The Truth in Lending Act requires standardized disclosures for many consumer credit costs and terms.
What federal debt-collection rules actually cover.
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act limits certain conduct by third-party debt collectors and gives consumers specific rights.