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Understanding Debts and Credit
Although a particular marriage may be coming to an end as a result of divorce, unfortunately, the same cannot be said for any and all debts and/or credit obligations accumulated during that marriage. While there are many uncertainties connected with the entire divorce process, one element can be counted on to remain constant - the monthly bills. Therefore, from the moment the decision to separate is made, it is very important to understand the effects this will have on your debts and credit rating. A person's credit history is very important as it is a major means by which a particular creditor can judge whether or not you are a good risk for a loan or credit line. Your history reflects what you have done with previous loans/credit lines and your willingness to repay borrowed monies. This factor and your current income are what determine what is known as your "credit worthiness". It is your credit worthiness that will ultimately decide whether or not you will be granted the loan or line of credit you apply for.
Getting Help With Credit Problems or Questions
The Consumer Credit Counseling Service is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping people understand, prevent, and solve credit issues. For people with severe troubles, there is a Debt Management Program through CCCS which can help to manage and repay debts by restructuring your budget and negotiating on your behalf with creditors. There are more than 1,000 CCCS offices throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, and Canada providing low-cost or even free services. It is their policy to turn their back on no one, regardless of ability to pay. To contact the nearest location, refer to the local telephone book or phone 1-800-388-CCCS.
Suggested Reading
Resources & Tools
COMMUNITY PROPERTY VERSUS EQUITABLE DISTRIBUTION -- There are two basic ways to handle divorce property division: Community Property: Alaska, Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin and Puerto Rico are community property states. This means that all marital property is typically defined as community property or separate property. When divorcing, community property is typically divided evenly, and each spouse keeps his or her separate property. Equitable Distribution: All other states follow equitable distribution. This means that a judge decides what is equitable, or fair, rather than simply splitting the property in two. In practice, this may mean that two-thirds of the property goes to the higher earning spouse, with the other spouse getting one-third.
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Your Right to Child Custody, Visitation & Support Cover Price: $ Your Price: $17.95 You Save: $7.00 "A Plain English Guide to Protecting Your Children" Author: Mary L. Boland, Attorney at Law
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