I live abroad and just found out I’m being sued for $10K+ unpaid CC debt

Navigating a Financial Crisis: My Journey with Unpaid Credit Card Debt and Legal Challenges

Embarking on a new life abroad brings many unexpected challenges, and for me, one of those hurdles involved unpaid credit card debt that has now escalated into a legal battle. Discovering that I’m being sued for over $10,000 in unpaid credit card debt was a startling wake-up call. As daunting as this situation might be, I must start by acknowledging my own responsibility in the matter.

When I relocated overseas, my financial circumstances took a drastic turn for the worse. Faced with the difficult decision between meeting basic living needs and settling my credit card bills, survival took precedence. Without a stable income, I stopped communicating with the credit card company and halted payments entirely—a choice made over a year ago. The weight of this decision has not been lost on me, and it deeply pains me knowing that I am unable to fulfill my financial obligations. If there were a way to erase this debt instantly, I would do so without hesitation, as maintaining my integrity is of utmost importance.

Interestingly, I’m relatively unconcerned about my ruined credit score in the United States. Since I don’t intend to return to live there, maintaining US credit carries little significance for me now. The lawsuit, however, was filed in Miami, Florida, at an address from which I’ve been absent since 2018. Although the residents at my old address, who are aware of my situation, informed the process server of my absence, uncertainties remain regarding how this legal notice might reach me abroad. Can legal documents be served internationally? This remains one of several pressing questions.

In this whirlwind of financial turmoil, solutions feel elusive. The ordeal has compounded my distress, leaving me fraught with self-reproach for not managing the situation more adeptly. My current circumstances are challenging, and the search for gainful employment continues in hopes of stabilizing my life.

I’m reaching out in this moment of vulnerability, not only to share my story but to seek guidance. Any advice or insights on navigating such a complicated financial and legal maze would be respectfully welcomed.

Creating a path to resolution may seem overwhelming now, but with determination and informed counsel, I hope to find a way forward.