I’m being sued over credit card debt. What do I do?

File a response with the court before the deadline on your summons, even if you owe the money. If you don’t respond, the creditor usually wins by default and can seek to garnish wages. After that, a payment plan or settlement is often possible.

By Max, founder of ftrme · Updated October 9, 2026

In our study, the top comment on a thread like this suggested a payment plan and skipped the court deadline entirely. Another commenter raised it lower down. That’s the most dangerous kind of buried answer. See the study.

What does the internet usually say?

• “Set up a payment plan.”
• “Settle for less.”
• “File an answer within the deadline.”
• Suggestions to use an AI chatbot to write legal documents.

Why that isn’t enough

Payment plans and settlements are real options, but the deadline comes first. Missing it can turn a negotiable debt into a court judgment. And don’t rely on a chatbot for legal filings.

The plan, in order

1. Find the deadline on your summons today. Response windows are often between 14 and 30 days, depending on where you live. The exact date is on your papers.
2. File a response (an “answer”) with the court. Many courts have self-help centres and standard forms.
3. Get free legal help. Look for legal aid in your area or a consumer law clinic. Many offer free consultations for debt cases.
4. Check the debt. Ask the creditor or collector to show the amount and that they own the debt.
5. Then negotiate. Offer a payment plan or a lump-sum settlement you can actually afford, and get any agreement in writing.

Illustrative numbers: 7%/yr average return, monthly deposits, not a guarantee. This is general information, not financial, legal or tax advice. For your specific situation, a fee-only adviser, a non-profit credit counsellor or a lawyer can help.