If you’re struggling to pay your medical bills, you’re not alone. And if you can’t pay your bills, your creditors may turn to wage garnishment as a way to get their money. Wage garnishment is when your employer withholds a portion of your paycheck to pay your creditors. It can be a major financial burden, and it can also be difficult to stop once it starts. But there are some things you can do to try to stop wage garnishment for medical bills. How can you stop medical bills from garnishing your wages?
Talk to Your Creditors
If you’re struggling to pay your medical bills, the first thing you should do is reach out to your creditors and explain your situation. Many times, creditors are willing to work with you to create a payment plan that works for both of you. They may also be willing to agree to a lower interest rate or even waive some fees.
Consider Bankruptcy
If you’re unable to reach an agreement with your creditors, bankruptcy may be an option for you. Medical bills are considered unsecured debt, which means they can be discharged in bankruptcy. That means that if you file for bankruptcy, you won’t be responsible for paying them back.
Bankruptcy should not be taken lightly, however. It will have a major impact on your credit score and it will stay on your credit report for seven to ten years. You should only consider bankruptcy if you’re truly unable to pay your debts.
Seek Help from a Nonprofit
If you need help but don’t want to file for bankruptcy, there are nonprofit organizations that may be able to help you. These organizations provide free or low-cost assistance with financial counseling, budgeting, and more.
If you’re struggling with medical debt, there are several options available to you including negotiating a repayment plan, bankruptcy, and seeking help from the community. You should explore all of your options and decide what is best for your individual situation.
