If I pay at least some amount of money monthly to my credit card company, do they have to accept the payment?
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If I pay at least some amount of money monthly to my credit card company, do they have to accept the payment?
I currently have a credit card debit of $3,000. I have been working with a consolidation company for 2 years to settle the debt. I am thinking of dropping them and start sending $50 a month to the credit card company. Can they still take me to court?
Asked on December 13, 2011 under Bankruptcy Law, Alabama
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
Yes, they can still take you to court, unless you are either (1) paying an amount which they agreed to accept (that is, if you come to an agreement with the creditor as to repayment, as long as you honor your end of it, they have to honor their end and can't sue); or (2) if you have not defaulted, as long as you equal or exceed the required minimum monthly payment (if any; most credit cards have a minimum which you have to pay each month).
However, if you are already in default (paid late; missed payments; didn't make minimums; etc.) and there is no agreement to let you pay $50 per month, then they can cash your check and still sue you (though at least you'll be credited for any payments you make). That's because once there is a default, the creditor is entitled to seek payment in full of all outstanding debts; also, the debtor is not allowed to unilaterally decide how much (s)he will pay each month.
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