Sentinel Answer
The Sentinel Library

Plain-language guides to your debt rights

Twelve free, readable guides — no account, no login, no sales. Each one explains one thing in plain language, links to official sources, and carries the same education-only promise: this is not legal advice.

Courts

Who you must answer — and who must prove it first

Some letters you must answer by a deadline. Others must prove the debt on paper first. Knowing the difference keeps you safe.

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Collectors

Send it in writing: the phone script that protects you

The phone is where collectors push hardest. One calm sentence ends the pressure and keeps you in control.

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Collectors

How to dispute a debt in writing (within 30 days)

You have the right to demand proof before you pay. Use it — in writing, within 30 days, by certified mail.

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Courts

Is my debt too old to sue? (California, 4-year rule)

Old debt has a time limit. In California the general rule for most written-contract debt is four years — an estimate, not legal advice.

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Courts

Sued for a debt? File an Answer before the deadline

A lawsuit is serious — and beatable. But only if you answer the court by the deadline. More than 70% of debt suits end in default.

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Courts

Wage or bank levy? File a claim of exemption in 10 days

If your wages or bank account were frozen, you can ask the court to protect what you need to live. File within the short California window.

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SBA/EIDL

EIDL demand letter and the Treasury referral

COVID EIDL loans did not disappear. The SBA hardship plan ended March 2025 — act before the Treasury referral within the 60-day window.

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Courts

Protect Social Security and retirement from garnishment

Some income has special protection from garnishment — but federal debts have special rules. File a claim of exemption and prove the source.

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Credit

Credit report errors and “re-aging” explained

You can fix wrong information on your credit report for free — and “re-aging” an old debt to extend reporting is against the law.

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Courts

Bankruptcy basics: a neutral overview

Bankruptcy is a legal option some people choose when debt is impossible to repay. This is a neutral overview — not a recommendation.

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Collectors

Spot fake collectors and “zombie” debt

Some “collectors” are scams. Some debts are so old they should stay buried. Two or more red flags means stop — report it.

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Rebuilding

Rebuild credit and small-business capital after hardship

After hardship, credit and capital can rebuild — slowly, honestly, and without paying for promises. Free help exists.

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Quick questions?

Fifteen plain-language answers in our FAQ.

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Education only — not legal advice, credit repair, or a recommendation. Sentinel Answer · Last reviewed 2026-10-12.