Who Is Called a Debtor?

A debtor is a person or entity that owes money or is in debt to another party. This legal term is commonly used in financial transactions, such as loans or credit agreements, where one party has borrowed money or received goods or services on credit and is obligated to repay the debt to the lender or creditor.

How Does a Debtor Differ From a Creditor?

A debtor and a creditor are two parties involved in a financial transaction and are opposites of each other. The debtor is the person or entity that owes money to another party, the creditor. Debtor: The debtor borrows money or receives goods or services on credit and is legally obligated to repay the debt to the creditor within a specified time period. Creditor: The creditor is the person or entity that lends money, provides goods or services, or extends credit to the debtor. The creditor expects to be repaid with interest or other agreed-upon terms. The debtor owes the debt, while the creditor is owed the debt.

How Can Debtors Check Their Credit Reports and Scores?

In the United States, debtors can check their credit reports and scores through the following most common methods: AnnualCreditReport.com : This website allows individuals to access their credit reports for free once every 12 months from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). Debtors can request their reports online, by phone, or through the mail. Credit bureaus’ websites : Each credit bureau provides options to access credit reports and scores directly from their websites. Debtors can sign up for a subscription service or purchase a one-time report to obtain their credit information. Credit monitoring services : Various credit monitoring services are available, such as Credit Karma, Experian CreditWorks, or IdentityForce. These services typically provide free credit reports and score updates regularly, along with additional features like credit monitoring and usage, as well as identity theft protection. Credit card issuers and banks : Many credit card issuers and banks offer their customers free access to credit scores. Debtors can log in to their online accounts or contact customer service to inquire about credit score availability. FICO Score Open Access program : Some financial institutions participate in the FICO Score Open Access program, which allows customers to view their FICO scores for free. Debtors can check if their bank or credit card issuer provides this service.

Does Everyone Have a FICO Score?

No, not everyone has a FICO score, as it is limited to people with a credit history, meaning they were a debtor at one point. According to the CFPB , FICO stands for Fair Isaac Corporation, which is a brand responsible for one of the major scoring systems used to represent someone’s creditworthiness (i.e., ability to get a loan), with 300 being the lowest and 850 being the highest. A credit score of 800 or above is considered excellent. People with a history of paying their credit card and loan payments on time will have better credit scores than debtors who are behind in making their loan payments. This results in people with high FICO scores being more likely to qualify for a loan or get approved for a credit card, which is essentially a line of credit extended by the credit card company.

How Can Debtors Dispute and Rectify Errors On Credit Reports?

It is possible for credit reports to include erroneous info. That is why debtors can dispute and rectify errors on their credit reports by following these steps: Obtain a copy of the credit report : Debtors should request a free copy from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). They can obtain these reports once a year for free through AnnualCreditReport.com. Review the report for errors : Debtors should carefully review their credit reports for any inaccuracies, such as incorrect personal information, accounts that do not belong to them, or late payments that were actually made on time. Gather supporting documentation : Debtors should gather any supporting documentation that proves the error. This can include payment receipts, bank statements, or correspondence with the creditor. File a dispute : Debtors can file a dispute with the credit bureaus by sending a written letter or submitting an online dispute through the credit bureaus’ websites. The letter should clearly state the error and provide any supporting documentation. It’s essential to keep a copy of the dispute letter for future reference. Contact the creditor : In addition to filing a dispute with the credit bureaus, debtors should also contact the creditor directly to inform them of the error. They can provide the same supporting documentation and request that the creditor correct the information they reported to the credit bureaus. Follow up with the credit bureaus : After filing a dispute, debtors should follow up with the credit bureaus to ensure their dispute is being processed. The credit bureaus are required to investigate the dispute within 30 days and provide a response. Review the updated credit report : Once the dispute is resolved, debtors should review their updated credit report to ensure the error has been corrected. If the error persists, they may need to repeat the dispute process or consider seeking legal assistance.

Are There Statutes of Limitations For Debts?

Yes, there are statute of limitations for debts in many countries, including the United States. A statute of limitations for debt is a time limit within which a creditor can sue a debtor to collect a debt. Once the statute of limitations expires, the creditor can lose their right to the claim against the debtor and is longer legally allowed to pursue legal action to collect the debt. The specific length of the statute of limitations varies depending on the type of debt and the jurisdiction. It is important to note that the statute of limitations does not erase the debt but limits the legal remedies available to the creditor.

What Is Meant By Judgment Debtor?

A judgment debtor refers to an individual or entity found legally liable for a debt or obligation through a judgment entered by a court. This means that a court has determined that the person or entity owes a specific amount of money to another party, known as the judgment creditor. The judgment debtor is responsible for paying the debt or fulfilling the obligation as ordered by the court. Failure to do so may result in enforcement actions to collect the debt, such as wage garnishments, bank account seizures, or property liens. Lawsuits that involve one party suing another for money can result in judgments if the case is tried in court. For example, suppose a jury determines that the defendant in a personal injury lawsuit is liable to compensate the injured victim for their loss. In that case, the court can enter a judgment against the defendant, which details how much they are responsible for paying the plaintiff, which means the defendant is a debtor and the winning plaintiff a creditor.

What Is Debtor In Possession?

Debtor in possession refers to a situation in which a person or company has filed for bankruptcy and can continue operating and managing its assets during the bankruptcy proceedings. This status is granted to the debtor by the court, allowing them to maintain control over their business operations to satisfy the creditor’s claims. The debtor in possession is responsible for managing its assets, paying its debts, and developing a plan for reorganization or liquidation. This status is typically granted when the court believes that the debtor is capable of effectively managing its affairs and maximizing the value of its assets for the benefit of its creditors. The activities permitted are subject to certain restrictions and oversight by a committee of unsecured debt creditors.

What Are the Rights and Responsibilities of Debtors During Repayment Process?

Debtors have certain government-protected rights and enforced responsibilities during the repayment process. Firstly, they have the right to be treated fairly and respectfully by creditors. They also have the right to receive clear and accurate information about their debt, including the total amount owed, interest rates, and repayment options. Debtors are responsible for making their payments on time and in the agreed-upon amounts. They should also notify their creditors if they face financial difficulties that may affect their ability to repay the debt. Debtors must understand their rights and responsibilities to ensure a smooth repayment process and protect their financial well-being.

Can a Debtor’s Assets Be Seized To Repay Debts?

Yes, a debtor’s assets can be seized to repay debts, with some asset types being exempt from seizure, which can change based on the type of creditor (i.e., a commercial bank or government entity). When a debtor fails to pay their debts, creditors may seek legal action to recover the outstanding amount. This can involve obtaining a court order to seize the debtor’s assets. The assets that can be seized vary depending on the jurisdiction but commonly include bank accounts, real estate, vehicles, and valuable possessions. Once the assets are seized, they are typically sold to repay the debts. It’s important to note that there are legal protections in place for debtors, and asset seizure usually requires a court judgment.

Can a Debtor’s Wages Be Garnished?

Yes, a debtor’s wages can be garnished in many circumstances involving a judgment. Wage garnishment is a legal process where the employer withholds a portion of an individual’s earnings to repay a debt. This typically occurs when the debtor has failed to pay a debt, and the creditor takes legal action to collect the outstanding amount. The specific rules and procedures for wage garnishment vary by jurisdiction, but it is a standard method used to collect unpaid debts of various types.

When Does a Debtor No Longer Have an Obligation?

A debtor no longer has an obligation when the debt has been fully paid off or discharged (i.e., bankruptcy claims) according to the terms of the agreement or by a court order. In some cases, the obligation may also be terminated if the debt is forgiven or canceled by the creditor. Additionally, the debtor’s obligation may no longer exist if the statute of limitations on the debt has expired, depending on the jurisdiction and the type of debt involved.

Does the Debtor Have Rights In the Collateral?

Yes, a debtor must have rights in the collateral, which means they have the right to use the asset as collateral (i.e., it’s property they own or, at a minimum, have some form of rights to).

What Are Surplus Sales Proceeds For Debtors?

In the case of mortgage foreclosures, surplus sale proceeds result from a lender (creditor) selling a foreclosed-upon property for more than the current amount owed by the borrower (debtor). Assuming no other creditors have rights to the profits, many, but not all states, have laws that give the debtor the right to recover the surplus proceeds. It is important to note that the legal requirements for what a debtor must do and how long they have to recover the surplus funds differ significantly from one state’s laws to another.

When Can a Debtor Object To a Proof of Claim?

A debtor can and should object to a proof of claim when the creditor for a number of reasons, which include the following: The creditor does not attach sufficient documentation to prove that an alleged debt is owed to them. The amount of the claim is incorrect (i.e., you owe less), which could result from a mistake when the creditor filed its claim with the court. The way the creditor is assessing interest or charging late fees is illegal. For instance, the government provides active duty military and their families additional protections for borrowing and repaying loans. The claim wasn’t the debtor’s debt in the first place. In the United States, the Bankruptcy Code stipulates that debtors have a deadline of 30 days after the meeting of creditors (also known as the 341 meeting) to file objections to claims. However, the exact process may vary depending on the jurisdiction and specific circumstances of the case. Debtors should consult with a bankruptcy attorney to determine the applicable deadline for objecting to a proof of claim.

What Is Bankruptcy and How Does It Affect Debtors?

Bankruptcy is a legal process that provides individuals or businesses with financial relief when they cannot repay their debts. It is a formal declaration that an individual or company cannot meet their financial obligations and seeks protection from creditors. When someone files for bankruptcy, a court-appointed trustee takes control of the debtor’s assets and evaluates their financial situation. The trustee may sell some of the debtor’s assets to repay some of the debts owed to creditors. The remaining debts may be discharged or restructured, depending on the type of bankruptcy filed.

Bankruptcy Affects Debtors In Several Ways:

Automatic Stay : Upon filing for bankruptcy, an automatic stay is imposed, which prohibits creditors from taking any collection actions against the debtor. This means that creditors cannot pursue lawsuits, wage garnishments, or contact the debtor for payment during the bankruptcy process. Debt Discharge : Bankruptcy can result in the discharge of certain debts, meaning the debtor is no longer legally obligated to repay them. The debts that can be discharged depend on the bankruptcy chapter filed. However, not all debts can be discharged, such as student loans, child support, and some tax debts. Credit Score : Filing for bankruptcy can have a significant negative impact on a debtor’s credit score. It will remain on their credit report for several years, making it difficult to obtain credit or loans in the future. It may also result in higher interest rates or stricter credit terms if credit is granted. Asset Liquidation : In some bankruptcy chapters, such as Chapter 7, the debtor’s non-exempt assets may be sold to repay creditors. This can result in property loss, including homes, cars, or other valuable assets. However, exemptions exist that protect certain assets from being sold. Repayment Plans : In Chapter 13 bankruptcy, debtors can propose a repayment plan to reorganize their debts and make affordable monthly payments over a specified period, typically three to five years. This allows debtors to retain their assets while repaying a portion of their debts. Overall, bankruptcy gives debtors a fresh start by eliminating or restructuring their debts. However, it also has long-lasting financial consequences and should be considered a last resort after exploring alternative options for debt relief. Consulting with a bankruptcy attorney is crucial to understanding the specific implications and determining the best action.

What Is the Difference Between Secured and Unsecured Debts?

Secured and unsecured debts are two different types of financial obligations that individuals or businesses may have—the main difference between the two lies in the presence or absence of collateral. Secured Debts: Secured debts are backed by collateral, an asset that the borrower pledges to the lender to guarantee repayment. If the borrower defaults on the loan, the lender can seize and sell the collateral to recover the amount owed. Common examples of secured debts include mortgages (where the house serves as collateral) and auto loans (where the vehicle serves as collateral). Also, the interest rates on secured debts are usually lower because the lender has a form of security, which is a benefit of borrowing a secured loan debt. Unsecured Debts: Unsecured debts do not involve any collateral. These debts are based solely on the borrower’s creditworthiness and promise to repay. Examples of unsecured debts include credit card debts, medical bills, personal loans, and student loans. Since there is no collateral to secure the repayment, lenders generally charge higher interest rates for unsecured debts to compensate for the increased risk.

What Is the Burden of Proof For Debt Collectors?

The burden of proof for debt collectors is generally preponderance of the evidence. This means that debt collectors must provide enough evidence to convince a court or arbitrator that it is more likely than not that the debt is valid and owed to them by the debtor. The exact nature of how a claim can be proved will vary depending on the circumstances of the case, jurisdiction, and the specific legal proceedings involved. The preponderance of evidence for civil claims against debtors is that the fact finder (a jury or the judge in a bench trial ) finds the creditor’s claim to be likely more than a 50% chance of being the truth.

Call to Apply Anytime 24/7

Si, Hablo Español >

Back to Glossary

Last Updated: February 11, 2025 1:26 pm

by Aaron Winston

Debtor

A a person or entity that owes money or is in debt to another party.

A person who has filed a petition for relief under the Bankruptcy Code.

Get flexible pre-settlement funding at super-fast speeds.

Call Now

Apply Online

Don't Let Financial Strain From an Injury or Loss Hold You Back!

Our pre-settlement funding can be your lifeline.

Apply Now
for Legal Funding

Complete this quick and secure application to find out if you qualify for pre-settlement legal funding. There’s no credit check, no upfront fees, and no obligation. Once approved, you could receive cash in as little as 24 hours. We’ll contact your attorney to evaluate your case and finalize the funding process.

With our low cost legal funding, you can start your financial recovery early.™ Applying is always risk-free. Plus, unlike some lawsuit funding companies, we don’t do any unfair and damaging hard credit pulls.

Debtor

Get flexible pre-settlement funding at super-fast speeds.

Don't Let Financial Strain From an Injury or Loss Hold You Back!

Our pre-settlement funding can be your lifeline.

Apply Now
for Legal Funding

Lawsuit Cash Advance: Fast & Risk-Free Legal Funding

10 Best Legal Funding Companies in 2025: Scores & Reviews

Can You Get a Cash Advance on a Car Accident Settlement?

Debtor

Get flexible pre-settlement funding at super-fast speeds.

Apply Nowfor Legal Funding

Sign Up for our Newsletter

Lawsuit Cash Advance: Fast & Risk-Free Legal Funding

10 Best Legal Funding Companies in 2025: Scores & Reviews

Can You Get a Cash Advance on a Car Accident Settlement?

Apply Now
for Legal Funding