How It Works

Understand your papers

A debt lawsuit usually starts with two documents: a summons, which tells you that you are being sued and how to respond, and a complaint, which explains what the plaintiff claims you owe and why.

Read both carefully and find these details:

• The court name, county, and case number.
• Who is suing you. This is often a debt buyer, not the original creditor.
• The amount claimed, including interest, fees, and costs.
• The date you were served, or the date the papers reached you.

Check your deadline

Your summons states how long you have to file a written response, often called an answer. In many states the window is between 14 and 30 days, and the count usually starts on the day you were served.

• Write the deadline on your calendar the day you receive the papers.
• Confirm the exact rules with the court clerk or your court's self-help center.
• Do not wait for a phone call or letter from the collector. The court deadline controls.

Take the next step

Once you know your deadline, these are common ways people respond. Which one fits depends on your facts and your state, so get advice before you decide.

• File an answer with the court and send a copy to the plaintiff's attorney. Many courts offer fill-in forms.
• Get free legal help from a legal aid office or a court self-help center.
• Ask the collector to verify the debt, including the original creditor and the account history.
• Discuss settlement if you owe the debt. Get any agreement in writing.
• Talk with a bankruptcy attorney if you face several debts you cannot pay.

Already have a judgment or a garnishment?

After a judgment, a creditor can ask the court for a wage garnishment or a bank levy. You have protections under federal law, and often more under state law.

Read the wage garnishment guide →