Alliance Settlement helps Florida residents negotiate unsecured debts like credit cards, personal loans and medical bills down to an amount they can afford. Before you decide, it helps to know how Florida handles lawsuits, garnishment and old debts.
| Florida debt facts at a glance | |
|---|---|
| Statute of limitations (credit cards) | 4 years (open account) |
| Wage garnishment for consumer debt | Head-of-family protection |
| Notable protection | Unlimited homestead |
Credit card debt and the statute of limitations in Florida
Florida gives creditors 4 years on open accounts such as credit cards and 5 years on written contracts. Keep in mind the clock limits lawsuits, not collection calls or credit reporting. Before paying on an old account, find out whether it's past the deadline.
Can creditors garnish your wages in Florida?
A Florida head of family earning $750 a week or less is fully protected from wage garnishment, and higher earnings can be garnished only with a signed waiver. Garnishment only happens after a creditor wins in court; settling before that point is usually less stressful and less expensive.
Other Florida consumer protections
Florida's constitution protects a primary residence from most creditors, and the Florida Consumer Collection Practices Act adds to federal debt collection rules.
How debt relief companies are regulated in Florida
Florida regulates debt management and credit counseling fees by statute. Under federal rules, debt settlement companies that sell services by phone can’t charge fees until they’ve settled or changed at least one of your debts and you’ve made a payment under that agreement. Ask any company how it is licensed or authorized to serve Florida residents, and get every term in writing.
How debt settlement works with Alliance Settlement
- Talk to us. A no-obligation call to understand your situation.
- One monthly deposit. Instead of juggling several payments, you set aside one program deposit.
- Creditor negotiations. We work account by account toward reduced payoffs.
- Written settlements. You approve each settlement before it’s paid, and receive written confirmation.
Settlement isn’t right for everyone. It can affect your credit and may have tax consequences on forgiven amounts. Learn more in does debt settlement hurt your credit?, or get a free consultation.
Frequently asked questions
How long can a creditor sue me for credit card debt in Florida?
Florida gives creditors 4 years on open accounts such as credit cards and 5 years on written contracts. The statute of limitations limits how long a creditor can sue; it doesn't erase the debt or remove it from your credit report, where negative items generally stay up to seven years.
Can my wages be garnished for credit card debt in Florida?
A Florida head of family earning $750 a week or less is fully protected from wage garnishment, and higher earnings can be garnished only with a signed waiver.
Will debt settlement hurt my credit?
Usually yes at first, mostly because of missed payments during the program, but scores often begin to recover after accounts are resolved. Read our guide: does debt settlement hurt your credit?
Does Alliance Settlement work with Florida residents?
Yes. Alliance Settlement works with clients throughout Florida, including Miami, Orlando, Tampa and Jacksonville, by phone and online.
This page provides general information, not legal or tax advice. Laws change; consult a qualified professional about your situation.