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Ignoring hospital bills and calls for collectors may lead to your debt being sold to a debt buyer or even a lawsuit being filed for the debt.

Ignoring medicals bills will likely lead to debt collectors contacting you and could even lead to a lawsuit.

After a judgment is entered, the debt collector can try to collect on the debt, including garnishing wages and bank accounts.

After a lawsuit is filed, the debt collector is one step closer to being able to collect on the debt, including garnishing wages and bank accounts.

Ignoring calls from creditors may lead to further problems, including being sued for the debt.

Ignoring bills may lead to further problems, including being sued for the debt.

Take control when a creditor tries to take your money or property. Understand the debt, know your rights, and decide what action to take next.

Find support: Talk to a lawyer about your case

Take control when a creditor sues you. Review your options and decide what action to take next.

Based on your response

Here’s some general guidance to help you decide which debts to focus on first.
Your situation matters—like if you're being sued or already have a court judgment. That can change what’s most urgent.
This isn’t personal advice, but it’s a helpful starting point. Click “Learn More” to see details for each debt.
We’ll save your debts to your dashboard so you can come back and work through them at your own pace.

⚠️You indicated one of your debts was caused by identity theft.

Identity theft must be dealt with immediately. We have special resources on the steps you need to take if your debt is the result of identity theft. You can also visit Illinois Legal Aid Online to learn more about dealing with identity theft.

⚠️You indicated one of your debts is in court.

If there’s an active case against you, the judge could decide you owe the money. This is called a judgment. Once there’s a judgment, the creditor can ask the court to take money from your paycheck, your bank account, or other property.

Need more help? A financial counselor can help you figure out what debt to start with first.

Take action now

Civil judgment

If you have been sued and you lose your case, the court will enter a judgment against you. If you do not show up for a court hearing, the court may also enter a judgment against you.

Criminal judgment

If you have been convicted of a criminal, juvenile, traffic offense or civil infraction, you may be required to pay court fines and fees.

Child or spousal support

Child support or spousal support debt refers to money owed by a person who has been ordered by a court to provide financial support for their child or former spouse. This typically happens after a divorce or separation. If the person doesn’t pay as required, the unpaid amounts, called "arrears," can become a legal debt. Courts may take steps to collect this debt, such as garnishing wages, withholding tax refunds, or placing liens on property. It’s important to meet these obligations to avoid legal penalties and ensure the well-being of the people who rely on the support.

Rent on current home

Rental debt on the home where you currently live. This may include other costs and fees.

Utilities

Utilities for your home, including but not limited to Water, Gas, Electric, Sewer, Trash Removal, or a landline phone.

Auto loan or lease

Auto loan or lease debt refers to money owed for a car that someone financed or leased. If you take out a loan to buy a car, you agree to make regular payments to pay it off. With a lease, you pay to use the car for a certain period but don’t own it. If you miss payments, the lender or leasing company can take back the car, or repossess it. Any remaining unpaid amount may still be your responsibility, which is called a deficiency.

Income tax

Income tax debt is money you owe to the government if you didn’t pay enough income taxes.

Active lawsuit

An active debt lawsuit means you are currently being sued in court by a creditor to collect a debt.

Federal student loan

Federal student loan debt is money borrowed from the government to pay for education. If you don’t make payments as required, the debt can go into default, leading to serious consequences like wage garnishment, tax refund withholding, or added fees. It’s important to stay in contact with your loan servicer to explore repayment options and avoid default. Check out this resource if you need help getting information about your student loan.

Mortgage

Mortgage debt is money borrowed to buy a home or property, typically repaid through monthly payments over a set period. The loan is secured by the property, meaning the lender has a claim on the home until the debt is fully paid. This can include:

Home Equity Loans,
Home Equity Lines of Credit,
Construction Loans,
FHA and USDA Loans, or
Amounts due for payments made by your mortgage company to pay for homeowner's or hazard insurance, or for property taxes

Property tax

Property or real estate taxes are annual taxes imposed by local governments on real property, such as land and buildings. The amount is based on the property’s assessed value and the local tax rate.

Association fees

Condo homeowner association (HOA) debt is money owed to a condominium or homeowners’ association for fees or assessments. These payments cover shared expenses like maintenance, utilities, and amenities within the community.

Insurance

Insurance debt refers to unpaid premiums or amounts owed for an insurance policy.

Auto insurance: Debt arises if you owe premiums for coverage on your vehicle.
Medical insurance: Debt may result from unpaid premiums or costs not fully covered by your health plan.
Homeowner’s insurance: Debt occurs if premiums for protecting your home and belongings are unpaid.

These debts relate to maintaining the policies that provide financial protection in case of unexpected events.

Payday loan

Payday loan debt is money borrowed through a short-term, high-interest loan, typically meant to be repaid by your next paycheck. Borrowers often provide a post-dated check or authorize an electronic withdrawal for the loan amount plus fees, which the lender can cash on the repayment date.

Credit card

Credit card debt is the balance owed on a credit card after making purchases, cash advances, or balance transfers. It accrues interest if not paid in full by the due date, and minimum monthly payments are required to keep the account in good standing. This debt is often sold to a company called a debt buyer that will try to collect the debt.

Medical

Medical debt comes from healthcare bills that you owe to the company or person that provided you with medical care.

Medical credit cards are for healthcare costs and may offer deferred interest. To avoid interest, you must pay the full balance within the promotional period. If not, interest is charged retroactively on the entire amount.

If you put medical bills on a regular credit card, that changes it to credit card debt and it is no longer legally considered medical debt.

Auto loan or lease deficiency

An auto loan deficiency debt occurs when a car is repossessed, and the sale of the vehicle doesn’t cover the remaining loan balance. The difference between what you owe and the sale amount is the deficiency. You are responsible for paying this remaining debt, along with any fees related to the repossession and sale.

Rent on former home

Rent debt from a former home is unpaid rent owed to a landlord after you move out. This debt can include missed rent payments, late fees, and other charges outlined in the lease agreement, such as damages or cleaning costs.

Cell phone or internet

Cell phone or internet debt is unpaid charges for services provided by your phone or internet company. This can include overdue monthly bills, early termination fees, or charges for equipment like modems or phones not returned as required by the service agreement.

Buy now pay later

Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) debt is money owed for purchases made using a payment plan that allows you to split the cost into smaller installments. These plans are typically interest-free if payments are made on time, but missed payments can lead to fees or added interest, depending on the terms of the agreement. These loans are regulated like credit cards.

Personal loan

Personal loan debt from friends or family is money borrowed informally from someone you know, rather than through a bank or financial institution. These loans often don’t have formal contracts, interest, or set repayment schedules.

Private student loan

Private student loan debt is money borrowed from a private lender, like a bank or credit union, to pay for education.

Bank loan

Secured bank loan debt is money borrowed from a bank with

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Civil judgment debt allows the creditor to immediately collect through wage garnishment, bank levies, and property liens. It stays enforceable for many years and affects credit.

A judgment allows a creditor to quickly take your property through court processes. The most common ways to collect on a judgment are to:

Take money from your bank account
Take up to 15% of your wages
Put a lien on your house

Criminal judgment debt is high priority due to serious risks like arrest warrants, jail time for nonpayment of certain fines, license suspension, and aggressive collection enforcement.

If you have unpaid court fines and fees, the court can immediately:

Take your income or assets, including your tax refund,
Keep you on probation or parole until you repay the fines and fees,
Take away your driver’s license for unpaid fines and fees related to traffic offenses, and
Put you in jail if you willfully refuse to pay or do not appear at a court hearing.

Criminal judgments

Child and spousal support debt is usually high priority. It allows the government or the other party to immediately collect through wage garnishment, tax refund interception, license suspension, and even jail time.

If you fall behind on your child support or spousal support payments, the court can:

Take up to 60% of your wages
Put a lien on your property
Take your tax refund

If you refuse to pay without a valid reason, you could be found in contempt of court. This could lead to fines, penalties, and even jail time. If you fall significantly behind on your child support payments, you may be charged with a crime. This can lead to imprisonment, additional fines and fees, and loss of your driver’s license.

Child or spousal support

Rent debt on your current home is high priority because nonpayment can quickly lead to eviction, loss of housing, and court judgments.

Rent debt on a current home is considered high priority because landlords can file for eviction quickly after missed payments. Court proceedings may move fast, and tenants risk losing their housing. A judgment for unpaid rent can also affect credit and future rental opportunities, making it harder to secure housing later.

Rent on current home

Utility debt is high priority because nonpayment can lead to shutoffs including electricity, gas, and water. You can also be sued for a money judgment.

Utility debt is considered high priority because failure to pay can result in disconnection of essential services such as electricity, gas, and water. Shutoffs can occur quickly. Reconnection may require payment of the full balance and fees.

Utilities

Auto loan debt can be high priority if you need your car. It can be repossessed after missing only a few payments. You can also be sued later for any remaning balance.

Auto loan debt is high priority because missing payments can lead to repossession of the vehicle. Repossession can happen without notice and may leave the borrower without transportation needed for work or daily life. After repossession, the lender may still sue for any remaining balance, known as a deficiency judgment.

Auto loans or leases

Income tax debt is usually high priority, because the government can take immediate steps to collect it, such as garnishing wages, seizing assets, or placing liens on property.

If income tax debt isn’t paid, the government can take immediate steps to collect it, such as garnishing wages, seizing assets, or placing liens on property. It’s important to address tax debt quickly to avoid penalties and additional interest charges.

If you do not pay your income taxes, the government can immediately:

Take money from your bank account,
Take part of your wages,
Take federal benefits,
Potentially take your home, or
Take your personal property, like a car.

You can request a delay in paying your taxes or work out a payment plan, but do not ignore this debt.

Income taxes

An active debt lawsuit means you are currently being sued in court by a creditor to collect a debt.

If there is an active case against you, you may be at risk of having a judgment entered against you. If a judgment is entered against you, a creditor can start the process to take your property.

Active lawsuits

Federal student loan debt is high priority because the government can collect without a court order, garnish wages, take tax refunds, and rarely allows discharge in bankruptcy.

If you are over 9 months behind in paying your federal student loans, the government can:

Take your tax refund
Take part of your wages or take your federal benefits, including social security

Check out this resource if you need help getting information about your student loan.

You typically cannot get rid of federal student loans through bankruptcy. But you have options to delay or reduce your student loan payments to make them more affordable. It is important to address repayment problems as early as possible.

Federal student loans

Mortgage payments can be high priority. Missed payments can lead to a foreclosure lawsuit, resulting in the loss of your home and damage to your credit.

Mortgages are secured by your house. If you fall more than a couple of months behind on your mortgage payment, the lender may foreclose on your house, which means taking your house and selling it to repay the loan.
To start the foreclosure process, the bank or lender needs to file a lawsuit, and it will take time for the case to work its way through the courts.
Home equity loans, second mortgages, and home equity lines of credit are secured by the equity in your home.

Mortgages

Unpaid property taxes can become a high priority. Missed payments can lead to a tax sale or loss of your home, with serious long-term financial and housing consequences.

Falling behind on property taxes can lead to:

The amount owed increasing, due to interest, fees, and penalties,
A lien put on your property, or
Potential loss of your home

Note: Some mortgage lenders add an escrow amount to your monthly mortgage to cover your property taxes. If you’re not sure how property tax payments work for your mortgage, contact your mortgage company.

Property taxes

Unpaid association dues can become a high priority if not resolved. The association can seek to evict you, place liens, and start foreclosure proceedings even for relatively small amounts owed.

Your homeowner or condo association can evict you in a quick process if you fall behind, and they can charge you for their attorney’s fees as well.

Homeowner association debt can be a high priority because associations can place a lien on your property and may initiate foreclosure, even if the amount owed is relatively small. Additional fees, interest, and attorney costs can quickly increase the total debt. Losing your home over unpaid dues is a real and serious risk.

Association fees

Lapsed insurance payments can be a high priority. You may be liable for damages while driving, medical treatment, or damage to your home, and you may be sued for the debt.

If you do not have liability auto insurance:

You risk being responsible for any damage you cause while driving,
Penalties of $500 or more, and
Having your license plate registration suspended, and potentially losing your driver’s license.

If you do not have medical insurance:

You risk being fully financially responsible for any medical expenses for you and your family.
This includes emergency care expenses.
Though you cannot be denied emergency medical services for not having medical insurance.

If you let your homeowner insurance lapse:

You risk bearing the full costs of damages to the home.
Your mortgage lender may purchase expensive homeowner insurance on your behalf and pass on the costs to you.

Insurance

Payday loan debt has lower immediate risk but can become high priority, because of high fees and aggressive collection. A lawsuit and judgment can occur, leading to wage garnishment or bank levies.

Payday loans are short-term loans with very high interest rates or fees. They are secured by a post-dated check or an authorized withdrawal from your bank account. If you do not have enough money in your bank account you may be subject to overdraft and non-sufficient fund fees from your bank.

Payday loan debt typically doesn’t lead to immediate legal action, but lenders often use aggressive collection tactics and charge very high fees, making balances grow quickly. If unpaid, the lender may sue and get a judgment, allowing wage or bank garnishment. The debt can spiral fast despite starting as a small loan.

Payday loans

Credit card debt is typically low priority. It accrues interest and late fees, and the debt can be sold to a debt buyer. You may be sued on the debt, making it a higher priority.

Credit card debt can grow quickly due to interest and late fees.
Credit cards often have higher interest rates than bank loans or medical debt.
Credit card companies cannot take your property unless they sue you and a court rules against you.
If your credit card has deferred interest, consider paying it off first during the deferred interest period.
Deferred interest is sometimes offered on medical or store credit cards as a promotion, but it’s different from a 0% APR (annual percentage rate) offer.
With deferred interest, you must pay off the full balance within the set time period to avoid interest. If you have any unpaid balance at the end of that period, the company will charge interest on the entire amount from the start of the loan.
If you’re unsure whether your credit card has deferred interest or when you need to pay it off, contact your credit card company for clarification.

Credit cards

Medical debt can be high priority if you still have time to apply for charity care or a payment plan, usually within 8 months. If you don't pay medical debt you may have to pay more interest and fees, and you can be sued on the debt.

⚠️You may qualify for charity care or a payment plan. There is an 8 month time limit to apply for charity care. Call your medical provider to apply right away.

You cannot be denied emergency services for having unpaid medical debt.
You may not be able to see your doctor for non-emergency services
Do not put medical debt on a credit card. If you do, it changes it legally to credit card debt. Medical debt typically has lower interest rates than credit card debt.
You may qualify for charity care or a payment plan. We can help you understand the process and guide you to resources to help you.

Medical bills

Auto loan deficiency debt is low priority, but it can lead to a lawsuit and judgment after repossession, with risks like wage garnishment and credit damage, even though the car is already gone.

If your car was repossessed but you still owe money on the loan or lease, they may send it to collections and will need to sue you for the debt in order to enforce it. This could add extra costs, like court costs and other fees.

Once a creditor gets a judgment, they can garnish wages, freeze bank accounts, place liens on property, and report the debt to credit bureaus.

Auto loans or lease deficiencies

Rent debt from a former home is usually low priority, but it can eventually lead to a lawsuit and court judgment, resulting in wage garnishment, credit harm, and barriers to renting future housing.

When rent from a former home goes unpaid, landlords may sue for the amount owed. If they win a judgment, they can garnish wages or freeze bank accounts. Judgments for rent debt can severely damage credit and make it difficult to qualify for future housing, especially with private landlords or management companies.

Rent on former home

Unpaid cell phone or internet bills are low priority but can lead to a lawsuit and eventual court judgment, allowing creditors to garnish wages, freeze bank accounts, and damage your credit report.

If you fall behind on these bills, your services can be turned off. This could impact your ability to work or communicate with your family and friends.

If cell phone or internet debt remains unpaid, the provider or a debt collector may sue. A court judgment allows them to garnish wages or bank accounts. While the risk isn’t immediate, a judgment can appear on credit reports and affect access to future services or financing options like phone payment plans.

Cell phone or internet bills

Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) debt is low priority, but it can lead to a lawsuit and judgment, resulting in wage garnishment, frozen bank accounts, and negative credit consequences.

These are short-term installment loans. Many do not charge interest, but if you miss a payment:

You may be assessed late fees
If you signed up for automatic payments from your bank account or debt card, your bank may charge you overdraft fees if you do not have enough money to make the installment payment.
BNPL providers may sue if payments are missed and the debt goes unpaid. Once they get a judgment, they can garnish wages, freeze bank accounts, and harm your credit. Although BNPL debt often starts small, it can grow quickly with fees and lead to serious collection consequences similar to credit card debt.

Buy now pay later

Unpaid personal loans from friends or neighbors are low priority, but can still lead to lawsuits. A court judgment would allow wage garnishment, bank account freezes, and liens to be placed on your property.

If you are having trouble affording loan repayments to a friend or family member, you may be able to more easily work out a different payment plan than with a bank. If you miss payments on a personal loan, the lender may be able to sue you for the remaining amount owed, plus interest, fees, and costs.

If the lender sues and wins a judgment, they can use the same legal tools as institutions—like garnishing wages or seizing funds from bank accounts. Personal relationships don’t change the seriousness of a judgment.

Personal loans

Unpaid private student loans are usually low priority, but can lead to a lawsuit and judgment. A judgment allows creditors to garnish wages, seize bank funds, and obtain a lein on your property.

Private student loans are taken out from a bank or other private lender.
- Private student loans typically have a lower interest rate than credit card debt
- If private student loans go unpaid, the lender can sue to collect.
- After winning a judgment, they may garnish wages or freeze bank accounts.
- Private student loans are more difficult to discharge in bankruptcy than regular loans or credit card debt
Check out this resource if you need help getting information about your student loan.

Private student loans

Unpaid bank loans are typically low priority, but they can result in a lawsuit and judgment. This can lead to wage garnishment, bank account freezes, and negative credit impacts that affect future borrowing.

If you miss payments on a secured bank loan, then the lender can take the property used to secure the loan and sell it to repay the loan.

When a bank loan goes unpaid, the lender may sue to recover the balance. If a judgment is entered, they can garnish wages, levy bank accounts, and report the debt to credit bureaus. Even personal loans from local banks or credit unions carry the same legal and financial risks once in court.

Bank loans

Retail loans are typically low priority, but lenders can usually try to repossess the property used to secure the loan and sell it.. It can also lead to a lawsuit and judgment, resulting in wage garnishment, frozen accounts, and damaged credit.

Secured loans require you to use your property as

Your case was filed in [courthouse]. If you have questions about your case, you can call the clerk’s office at (847) 695-3750. The clerk can help you find out your court date and get court documents. They cannot give you legal advice. You can also call or text Illinois Court Help for additional information about your case.

Your case was filed in [courthouse]. If you have questions about your case, you can call the clerk’s office at (630) 553-4208. The clerk can help you find out your court date, get court documents, and explain how to take part in the hearing. They cannot give you legal advice. You can also call or text Illinois Court Help at (833) 411-1121for additional information about your case.

Based on what you shared, [creditor] has contacted you and claims that you owe it an unpaid debt.

Take control when a creditor contacts you. Conozca la deuda, infórmese de sus derechos y decida qué medida tomar.

They are a non-profit that provides no-cost help dealing with identity theft.

If you have a good (660 or higher) you might qualify for a low loan that you can use to pay off your high interest debt.

Even after a has been entered against you, there are still steps you can take to deal with coerced debt and protect yourself from more harm.

Take action to address coerced debt and limit its impact on you and your credit.

If you can afford to pay at least $25 a month, you can set up an installment plan to repay your tax debt over time.

You can still look over your medical bills for errors and see if you qualify for discounts.

Go to court and explain why the hasn’t proven you owe the debt.

You can ask the court to undo a more than 30 days old, but you'll need a strong or to show you were never given notice of the case.

Act fast: If was entered less than 30 days ago, you can ask the judge to vacate it.

Even after a is entered, you can take steps to protect yourself from more harm.

Even if you don't qualify for financial assistance, you can still negotiate an affordable payment plan.

If you don't qualify for financial assistance, you can still negotiate a discount on your medical bill if you have a chunk of money saved.

The must give you proper notice of the lawsuit. If you never received your court papers, you may be able to ask the court to cancel a .

You are required to go to court to questions about your finances, but this is also an opportunity to protect your property.

You can ask the court for an emergency to access bank funds for basic needs or urgent expenses.

Even after a has been entered, you may be able to with the for less than the full amount.

Even after a is entered, it's not too late to set up a payment plan.

It’s not too late to . A may for less than the full amount if you can pay a chunk of the debt in one payment.

Even if you’ve been sued, the may agree to a payment plan you can afford instead of the full amount at once.

It’s not too late to . The care provider may for less than the full amount if you can pay a chunk of the debt in one payment.

Even if you’ve been sued, the care provider may agree to a payment plan you can afford instead of the full amount at once.

Even if you’ve been sued, the may agree to a payment plan you can afford instead of the full amount at once.

If you don't qualify for financial assistance, you can still negotiate a discount on your medical bill if you have a chunk of money saved.

If you don't qualify for financial assistance , you can set up affordable monthly payments to repay your medical bills. Hospitals are required to work with you and take into account what you can afford.

You can set up affordable monthly payments to repay your medical bills. Hospitals are required to work with you and take into account what you can afford.

You can negotiate a discount on your medical bill if you have a chunk of money saved.

Ask your hospital to screen you for their financial assistance program to see if you qualify for discounted or free care.

If you received care at a hospital, they may have a financial assistance program to help you apply for Medicaid and reduce or eliminate your hospital bills.

If you have good credit, you can use a credit card with a zero- promo period to pay off your high- debt.

Go to court and explain why the hasn’t proven you owe the debt.

Take action to address and limit its impact on you and your credit.

Send a legal demand to dispute the debt, limit or stop contact, get more information, or tell the collector you're protected from collections.

Go to court and explain why the hasn’t proven you owe the debt.

Even if you’ve been sued, you may be able to with the for less than the full amount.

Even if you’ve been sued, the may agree to a payment plan you can afford instead of the full amount at once.

Even if you’ve been sued, you may be able to with the for less than the full amount.

happens when someone uses your personal information without your permission. Take action to address and limit its impact on you and your credit.

can offer a fresh start if you can't afford to pay your bills, but it can also affect your credit and future finances.

If you can’t afford a lump sum, you can ask for a payment plan to buy time and avoid court.

If you have a chunk of money, you may be able to the debt for less than the full amount.

If you’re behind on your bills and can't afford a lump sum , you can ask your for a payment plan. This will give you more time to pay the debt and avoid going to court.

If you have a chunk of money you can use to pay off part of your debt, your may be willing to for less than the full amount you owe.

If you're having trouble paying your bills, your may be willing to help you by lowering your rate or take away late fees.

If you have a good (660 or higher) you might qualify for a low loan that you can use to pay off your high debt.

Making on-time payments can help you save money, build your , and feel more in control.

Learn how the law protects your property when you file for bankruptcy.

Learn how to tell whether your loans are federal or private and how this impacts your repayment options.

The DuPage Medical Debt Care Program offers free help to manage your medical bills. They don’t pay the bills, but they can help you deal with them. Anyone living in DuPage County can get help.

You may get charged higher interest and fees than allowed under Illinois law.

Learn how ERP gives free help to people in Cook County who have been sued for a consumer debt.

Learn about evidence you can use to show that there are errors in your medical bills or other problems with your medical debt.

Learn about your rights and possible defenses if you're sued by a care provider not part of a hospital.

Learn about your rights and the steps hospitals in Illinois must take before they sue you.

Learn what to expect at a trial in circuit court.

Understand the complaint better by learning about common types of claims debt collectors and creditors bring.

Find examples of papers you can use to tell the court that your creditor can't prove its case against you.

Learn how the law protects your job if you have debt.

Learn what to expect when you go to court and how to prepare.

Learn how you and your lawyer can work together to find a solution for your money problems.

Learn how the law protects your property from collections and what you need to do to protect yourself.

Learn how debts get reported and updated to credit reporting agencies and how this can impact your credit score.

If the debt collector waited too long to collect the debt, they can't force you to pay.

If the debt collector waited too long to bring the lawsuit, you can try to get your case thrown out.

Learn how to e-file court documents in and who to call to get help.

Learn how to find a lawyer to help you and what to expect

Learn the step-by-step timeline of Illinois debt lawsuits over $10,000, from summons to trial, arbitration, judgment, and collection.

Learn the step-by-step timeline of a small claims consumer debt case in Illinois and what to expect at each stage.

Get practical advice on attending court.

Learn your rights and options for handling personal loan debt from friends or family in Illinois, including time limits, interest rules, and where to learn more

Learn your rights in Illinois for furniture and appliance installment contracts and rent-to-own, including repossession, fees, and reinstatement options.

Understand Illinois bank loans, including your rights, setoff risks, and options. Plus resources to learn more.

Learn your rights and options for dealing with payday loan debt in Illinois, plus tools and resources to protect your money.

Learn what happens if you owe money to your HOA in Illinois, including liens, lawsuits, foreclosure risks, and your rights as a homeowner.

Learn what to do if you owe money to an insurance company in Illinois, including your rights, collection risks, and where to get help or file complaints.

Learn what happens when you fall behind on a car loan in Illinois, including repossession, deficiency lawsuits, and where you can learn more

Learn your rights and options if you're behind on utility bills in Illinois, including help with payment plans, shutoff protection, and where to get aid.

Basic info and resources for Illinois renters behind on rent, including legal rights, rental assistance programs, and links to get help.

Learn the basics if you owe child or spousal support in Illinois, including how it's collected, your rights, and where to get additional information.

Learn your rights if you owe property taxes in Illinois. Understand payment plans, redemption periods, and access resources to protect your home.

Learn your rights if you're behind on your mortgage in Illinois. Understand foreclosure timelines, legal protections, and free resources to save your home.

For cell phone and internet bills in Illinois, learn your rights, how to handle collections, and where to get free help and advice.

Learn how to handle or Illinois income tax debt, your payment and relief options, and where to get free help before collections get worse.

Learn about criminal court debt in Illinois, your rights, payment options, and where to get free legal help to reduce or manage what you owe.

Learn what to do if you owe federal or private student loans in Illinois, your rights, and where to get free help.

Learn when a surviving spouse may be responsible for paying a deceased spouse's debt

Learn how to turn paper and electronic documents into PDF format for e-filing.

Learn your rights on Buy Now, Pay Later loans in Illinois: fees, disputes, fraud protection, missed payments, and the 36% APR law that keeps loans fair.

Illinois small claims court handles cases under $10,000. Learn the rules, limits on discovery and motions, and what to expect at your hearing.

Learn how arbitration and mediation work in debt collection cases, including your rights, options, and steps to protect yourself.

Learn how to apply for financial assistance to see if you qualify for free or discounted care.

Learn how to handle calls from debt collectors and make sure you don't fall for scams.

Use this tool to see if you may have a common affirmative defense or counterclaim in your case.

Use this tool to see if your creditor may have violated the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act and other consumer laws.

Learn what happens if a debt collector puts a lien on your house after getting a judgment.

Learn what to expect if a debt collector sends a Citation to Discover Assets to your bank.

Learn what to expect if a debt collector sends a Citation to Discover Assets to your employer.

Learn what you need to do if you get a Citation to Discover Assets to Debtor.

Medical bills and insurance are complicated. Learn how to check for errors in your insurance coverage.

Medical bills often have mistakes. Learn how to request an itemized bill and spot common billing errors.

Learn how autopay works, how it can keep you on track with your bills, and what to watch out for.

Learn what hospitals must do before they can send your bill to collections and how this can help you address your medical debt.

Learn what help is available to undocumented individuals with medical debt.

Learn about your rights during the financial screening process, including protections against collections and lawsuits.

Learn about a new law that prevents medical debt from affecting your credit score

Learn your rights to emergency care and why you should not let medical debt get in the of getting emergency treatment.

Learn about health insurance options, how to apply for coverage, and how Medicaid may be able to cover your past medical expenses.

Learn more about the benefits of talking with a lawyer before filing for bankruptcy.

Learn the important information about your case in the Summons.

Learn how your credit score can be impacted by unpaid debt and what you can do to rebuild your credit.

Learn how to spot debt collection scams and protect yourself.

Learn about the information in collection letters and how they can help you better understand the debt.

Learn about the information in a validation notice and how it can help you understand the debt at issue.

Learn what information to ask for, what information not to share, and warning signs for scams.

Learn about the information contained in the Rule 280.2 and how it is important to understanding your debt collection case.

Learn about the information contained in the Rule 280.2 Affidavit and how it is important to understanding your debt collection case.

Learn how to find out if you were notified about the lawsuit the right way.

Learn about the information on the summons and how it can help you better understand your court case.

Learn about identity theft and why it is important to act quickly.

This tool helps you determine if you are collection proof in Illinois, and what income and property is at risk if a creditor tries to enforce a judgment against you.

Learn how Illinois' Medical Debt Relief Pilot Project forgives medical debt.

Learn how medical installment loans work and what to watch out for in the fine print.

Learn what medical credit cards are and how they may end up costing you more than other options like financial assistance or payment plans.

Learn why putting medical debt on a credit card can cost you more with high interest rates and loss of medical debt protections.

Learn about hospital financial assistance protections and how they can reduce or eliminate your medical bills. If your income is under 600% of federal poverty guidelines, you may qualify.

Learn about your settlement options after a court has entered a judgment against you.

Learn what property is automatically protected and what property you need to file court papers to protect.

Learn how bankruptcy can provide debt relief and how to tell if it may be a good option for you.

Learn how to get access to frozen bank account funds for emergencies and daily needs.

Learn about how citations work, when you need to go to court, and how you can protect some of your property from collections.

Learn the impact a judgment may have on you and how you can protect your property.

Learn the time limits debt collectors have to sue you and ways to protect yourself from restarting the clock.

Learn about the different court papers and the information they contain to help you better understand your case.

Learn your rights: You don’t get a free lawyer in debt cases, but you may qualify for free or low-cost legal aid. Explore your options before going to court.

Learn what could happen if you miss your court date, including what property could be put at stake.

Learn what happens if you're sued for debt and how you have to respond to avoid a judgment being entered against you.

Learn how paying old debt can restart the statute of limitations, giving collectors more time to sue.

Learn your rights and protections in disputing a debt you don't recognize.

Learn how you can request proof of a debt within 30 days and what the debt collector must do in response.

Learn how to stop debt collectors from contacting you.

Learn how the law protects you from debt collectors who lie about your debt or use threats.

Learn how the law protects you from debt collectors who threaten you, call too often, or wrongly share your debt with others.

Learn what happens to your debt after it is charged off.

Learn how to prioritize expenses, manage debt, and explore hardship programs to regain financial stability.

Credit cards offer flexible borrowing but can lead to costly debt if not repaid in full. Learn how to save on interest and clear debt faster.

Learn why debt management plans (DMPs) are different from debt settlement or debt consolidation.

Learn what debt consolidation is and why it might or might not be a good option for you.

Learn how debt settlement companies work and how they can impact your debt and credit score.

Learn the basics on prioritizing debts to start tacking your debts.

Learn what a creditor can and cannot take from you for different types of debt and how the law protects you.

Learn how ignoring debt could hurt you more in the long run.

Learn how debts impact your estate after you die.

There is no debtor's prison in Illinois. But you may face jail time if you disobey court orders, or don't go to a required court hearing.

Find support: Apply for Medicaid

Medicaid is a free health insurance program that helps people with low incomes pay for medical care. Medicaid may cover care you received 3 months before you apply.

Find support: Talk to a lawyer about your ID theft

You may be eligible to get help from a lawyer in your area.

Find support: Apply for help with a legal aid lawyer

You may be eligible to get help from a legal aid lawyer.

Find support: Apply for help with a legal aid lawyer

You may be eligible to get help from a legal aid lawyer.

Find support: Talk to a lawyer about your ID theft

If you have low or moderate income, you may be eligible to get help from a lawyer in your area.

Find support: Talk to a lawyer about your case

If you have low or moderate income, you may be eligible to meet with a lawyer to receive free advice.

Find support: Talk to a lawyer for free

If you have low or moderate income, you may be eligible to meet with a lawyer to receive free advice.

Find support: Talk to a lawyer about your situation

If you have low or moderate income, you may be eligible to meet with a lawyer to receive free advice.

Find support: Get help from a nonprofit financial counselor

Find a no-cost or low-cost financial counselor to review your finances and make a plan that works for you.

Find support: Get free help applying for financial assistance

Financial assistance can reduce or even erase your medical bills. Dollar For is a non-profit that helps people apply for financial assistance for free.

Find support: Free legal advice hotlines

Cook County residents have access to two free legal advice hotlines that can help you better understand your consumer debt issues.

Find support: Talk to a lawyer for free

You can talk to a consumer advocate for free through Cook County's Early Resolution Program and CARPLS.

Find support: Help for military and veteran families from IL-AFLAN

The Illinois Armed Forces Legal Aid Network (IL-AFLAN) is dedicated to help veterans and their families for free. They provide free legal help to veterans, military members, and their families in Illinois.

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Ignoring hospital bills and calls for collectors may lead to your debt being sold to a debt buyer or even a lawsuit being filed for the debt.

Ignoring medicals bills will likely lead to debt collectors contacting you and could even lead to a lawsuit.

After a judgment is entered, the debt collector can try to collect on the debt, including garnishing wages and bank accounts.

After a lawsuit is filed, the debt collector is one step closer to being able to collect on the debt, including garnishing wages and bank accounts.

Ignoring calls from creditors may lead to further problems, including being sued for the debt.

Ignoring bills may lead to further problems, including being sued for the debt.

Your case was filed in Appellate Court - 2nd District. If you have questions about your case, you can call the clerk’s office at (847) 695-3750. The clerk can help you find out your court date and get court documents. They cannot give you legal advice. You can also call or text Illinois Court Help at (833) 411-1121 for additional information about your case.

Your case was filed in Kendall County Courthouse. If you have questions about your case, you can call the clerk’s office at (630) 553-4208. The clerk can help you find out your court date, get court documents, and explain how to take part in the hearing. They cannot give you legal advice. You can also call or text Illinois Court Help at (833) 411-1121 for additional information about your case.