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Credit card debts are a type of unsecured debt, which means they're not tied to any specific asset, like a house or a car.
This is because credit card companies don't require a borrower to put up collateral, such as a deed to a property or a title to a vehicle, in order to get a credit card.
If you default on your credit card payments, the credit card company can't seize your home or your car, but they can still sue you for the amount you owe.
You're not protected by any specific asset, so the credit card company has to rely on other methods to collect the debt.
Characteristics of Unsecured Debt
Unsecured debt is a type of debt that isn't backed by any collateral or assets. This makes it riskier for lenders, and as a result, it often charges borrowers higher rates.
Because unsecured debt is more risky, it tends to have higher interest rates compared to secured debt. In fact, unsecured debt like credit card debt will often charge borrowers higher rates because it's not backed by secured assets.
Understanding Unsecured Debt
Unsecured debt is a type of debt that isn't backed by any underlying assets. It's considered riskier for lenders because borrowers might choose to default on the loan through bankruptcy.
Credit cards, medical bills, utility bills, and other instances where credit was given without collateral are examples of unsecured debt. Lenders charge higher interest rates on unsecured debt because it's considered riskier.
Unsecured loans can't be recovered if the borrower declares bankruptcy and has no specific assets pledged as collateral. This can make it difficult for borrowers to secure new loans in the future.
Borrowers who have declared bankruptcy may find it hard to get new loans because it severely impacts their credit score. Lenders can report any instances of default or delinquency to a credit rating agency, or hire a credit collection agency to collect the unpaid debt.
Types of Unsecured Debt
Credit card debt is a type of unsecured debt, which means it's not tied to a specific asset like a house or car.
Unsecured debt can also come in the form of personal loans, which are loans made to individuals for various purposes, such as paying off other debts or financing a large purchase.
Medical bills and collections are another type of unsecured debt, which can arise from unexpected medical expenses or unpaid medical services.
Payday loans and title loans are also types of unsecured debt, often with high interest rates and fees that can quickly add up.
Student loans, which are typically used to finance higher education, are also a type of unsecured debt, with repayment terms varying depending on the lender and borrower.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a credit card company sue you for unsecured debt?
Yes, a credit card company can sue you for unsecured debt, but it's typically a last resort due to the time and money involved. A judgment is needed to collect from you, making it a serious consequence of unpaid credit card bills.
How do I get rid of unsecured debt?
Consider filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy to discharge most or all of your unsecured debts, freeing you from repayment obligations. This option may be a viable solution to eliminate unsecured debt, but it's essential to understand the process and potential consequences
Sources
- https://www.bhawleylaw.com/is-credit-card-debt-secured-or-unsecured/
- https://www.investopedia.com/ask/answers/110614/what-difference-between-secured-and-unsecured-debts.asp
- https://www.lendingtree.com/debt-consolidation/what-is-unsecured-debt/
- https://www.investopedia.com/terms/u/unsecureddebt.asp
- https://davidsklar.com/blog/what-is-unsecured-debt-secured-debt/
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