Managing Debt and Credit


 

OTS brochure that describes how OTS handles consumer complaints about savings associations.


Agency: Office of Thrift Supervision


The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency’s Financial Literacy Web Resource Directory provides information about financial literacy programs that banks might wish to become involved with as part of their CRA programs.  It includes descriptions and contact information for a sampling of organizations that have undertaken financial literacy initiatives as a primary mission, government programs, fact sheets, newsletters, conference materials, publications, and links to Web sites.

Audience: 
General Audience

Agency: Office of the Comptroller of the Currency


Borrowing from an unscrupulous lender, especially one that offers a high-cost loan using the home as security, could result in the loss of the borrower's home. “Putting Your Home on the Loan Line is Risky Business” is a brochure prepared by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and the federal bank, thrift, and credit union regulatory agencies.  The publication warns that regardless of whether a home equity loan is for a home repair, or some other purpose, it is important to shop around.

Audience: 
General Audience, Bank Customers, Homeowners

Agency: Office of the Comptroller of the Currency


This web page provides quick access to several resources to help homeowners, community stakeholders, and the banking industry help prevent unnecessary foreclosures and stop foreclosure “rescue” scams that promise false hope to consumers at risk of losing their homes. For Additional information call toll-free 1-877-ASK-FDIC (1-877-275-3342); hearing impaired 1-800-925-4618.

Audience: 
General Public, Homeowners, Educators, Housing Counselors

Agency: Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation


The Money Smart Podcast Network (MSPN) is the portable audio (MP3) version of Money Smart and designed to accommodate financial learning for individuals “on the go.” With verbal descriptions and topic based scenarios, the Money Smart Podcast Network utilizes detailed dialogue to help individuals learn the basics of handling money, finances, and how to establish a positive relationship with a financial institution.  The segments are short and grouped into four general categories.  The MSPN files can be accessed online, or users without Internet access may order a free CD on line.

Audience: 
General Public, Educators, Youth, Parents, Students

Agency: Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation


Learn how to order a free copy of your credit report from each of the nationwide consumer reporting companies – Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion – once every 12 months.


Agency: Federal Trade Commission


Discusses your creditor's rights in seizing and reselling your car for nonpayment, and explains deficiency - the difference between what you owe on your loan and what your creditor gets for reselling your car.


Agency: Federal Trade Commission


Offers information on debt collection practices as they relate to debts that are past the statute of limitations.


Agency: Federal Trade Commission


The Rule prohibits many creditors from including certain provisions in consumer credit contracts. It also requires creditors to provide a written notice to consumers before they cosign obligations for others about their potential liability if the other person fails to pay.


Agency: Federal Trade Commission


This pamphlet describes credit and debit cards and some common schemes involving card fraud with tips to help you avoid them.


Agency: Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System


Bad credit can affect your ability to get more credit and to get or keep a job. Employers often use a credit report when they hire and evaluate employees for promotion, reassignment or retention. Explains your rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act.


Agency: Federal Trade Commission


You need to understand how credit is awarded or denied and what you can do if you are treated unfairly. The major laws that regulate credit are outlined in this brochure.


Agency: Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System


It used to be that a retailer or bank would have to call each creditor you listed on an application form before they would decide to extend credit to you. Today, they rely on credit reports, so it's important for you to know what is in yours.


Agency: Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System


Credit is an important financial tool, but it can also be dangerous, leading people into debt far beyond their ability to repay.


Agency: Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System


Knowing how credit card charges, finance charges, and terms of credit can change your financial status.


Agency: Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System


Explains how to dispute and correct inaccurate information in your credit report. Includes a sample dispute letter.


Agency: Federal Trade Commission


If you've recently lost your job, your first thoughts may be, "how will I make ends meet." The Federal Trade Commission spells out your rights when it comes to fair debt collection and credit reporting practices.


Agency: Federal Trade Commission


If you're looking for credit, be wary of some 'gold' or 'platinum' card offers promising to get you credit cards or improve your credit rating. Lists tip-offs to rip-offs.


Agency: Federal Trade Commission


Provides tips on shopping for credit cards, using cards carefully, and keeping your credit record clean. Also explains credit reports and credit scores, how to protect your identity, improve your credit record, and what to do if you are a victim of identity theft. A good source of information for people learning about credit.


Agency: Federal Trade Commission


Answers commonly asked questions about your rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, which requires that debt collectors treat you fairly and prohibits certain methods of debt collection.


Agency: Federal Trade Commission