How do I access the client portal?

You can access it by going to https://client.higbeeassociates.com/login.  Your login and password should have been sent to you via email with the subject XXXX.

 

When will you start to settle my debts?

Our legal team starts working on your settlement strategy as soon as you start the program.  Typically, the first settlement occurs between four to six months after a client enrolls in the program.  

 

Would making an additional payment into my dedicated savings account help?  

Yes.  The sooner we have enough money to make a realistic offer, the better.  If you wish to make an additional payment, please call us at XXX.

 

What happens if I pay more into my Dedicated Savings Account than is needed to settle my accounts?

All unused funds at the end of the program are returned to you.

 

What happens if I miss a monthly payment to my Dedicated Savings Account?  Missing a payment can have a few effects.  It could make it take longer to complete the program.   It can stop a settlement from happening or jeopardize the success of a completed settlement that is in a payment plan.  It may lead to less favorable settlement terms or an account going to litigation. 

 

Do I need to approve each settlement?

Yes, every settlement must be approved by you.  The attorney will review it and may make recommendations, but the decision to settle an account is entirely yours.   We will notify you via text message or email when we have a settlement offer.  You can also set-up pre-approval that allow us to accept a settlement that meets your preset requirements.  Remember, settlement offers are time sensitive, so please be quick to respond.

 

What happens after you approve a settlement?

 

Once you authorize a negotiated settlement, payment will be submitted to your creditor through your DSA, according to the agreed upon terms.    At this time, the law firm will collect the portion of the fee owed for that particular account.

 

What do you tell creditors or collectors when they call?

Once you have decided to stop paying on the debt, you will probably receive phone calls from the creditors.  If you take their call, simply say that you are “experiencing financial hardship and that you cannot afford to make a payment at this time, but a payment will be made as soon as you are able to make one.”     Do not provide a date or estimate as to when.  Keep calls brief.   You can tell the creditor that you are represented by a law firm, New Start Legal Solutions, who can be reached at xxx-XXX-xxxx.

 

What if creditors harass me?

The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) is a federal law that protects you from harassment by third-party debt collectors who are attempting to collect debts on behalf of another person or entity (creditor).    The FDCPA makes it illegal for a debt collector to do such things as use abusive language, make unrealistic threats, call you repeatedly, call you before 8 a.m. or after 9 pm., unless you agree to it.  You can read more about your rights under the FDCPA at https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/debt-collection-faqs  If you believe that your rights have been violated, please document it and let us know.

 

Will creditors or debt-collectors sue me?

It is unlikely, but possible.   If it happens, do not panic.  We have handled thousands of lawsuits from creditors, we are here to help. Please contact us right away so we can discuss options on how to fight back.