financial wellness
Case Dismissed: How One Arizona Woman Battled and Won Against a Major Debt Collector
Anne Munoz, a retired school bus driver from Arizona, fought and won against a baseless debt lawsuit, demonstrating the power of self-advocacy and inspiring others to challenge predatory debt collection practices.

It’s far too common: debt collectors overwhelming unsuspecting consumers with lawsuits, often for debts they don’t even owe. In the United States alone, millions face this daunting reality every year. Yet, a remarkable story emerged recently from Arizona that serves as a beacon of hope for those ensnared in predatory debt collection practices. This is the story of Anne Munoz, a retired school bus driver who found her voice and fought back.
First reported on 12 News Phoenix, Arizona. Read the article here: https://www.12news.com/article/news/investigations/i-team/debt-collector-filed-more-than-20000-lawsuits-maricopa-county-how-one-woman-fighting-back/75-47323880-62a9-4951-8880-626c027602c3
This story demands attention as we are committed to delivering vital information that empowers individuals who find themselves in the challenging situation of facing predatory debt collectors.
The Unfounded Lawsuit
In September 2024, Anne Munoz received shocking news: she was being sued by Portfolio Recovery Associates, a formidable debt collection agency, for over $2,700 allegedly owed on a computer she purchased in 2011. Upon being served the lawsuit, Munoz felt an instinctive sense that something was amiss. “When you come after me wrongfully, I’m going to make as much noise as possible, and that’s what I’ve done,” she declared. With unwavering resolve, she dived headfirst into researching her case and defending herself against what she knew was a baseless claim.
A Diligent Investigation
Anne may not be a lawyer, but her tenacity and research skills proved invaluable. As she delved deeper, she uncovered a startling detail: another “Anne Munoz” had been sued for the same debt, but this woman lived in Missouri—a state Anne had never even set foot in. “This is not my debt,” she stated firmly, reinforcing her commitment to clearing her name.
Understanding her rights, Munoz filed complaints with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, highlighting that Portfolio Recovery Associates was pursuing claims on a debt that was not only too old but also lacking sufficient documentation. Her assertions raised serious questions about the legitimacy of the lawsuit.
A Common Issue
Unfortunately, Anne’s experience is not an isolated incident. Debt collection lawsuits are all too frequent, with estimates ranging from 2.5 to 4.5 million filed against American consumers each year. In Maricopa County alone, Portfolio Recovery Associates has reportedly filed over 20,000 lawsuits since 2022. Alarmingly, a significant percentage of these cases—between 60% and 70%—often end in default judgment simply because consumers don’t respond, whether due to intimidation, confusion, or a host of other reasons.
Lester Bird from the Pew Charitable Trusts shed light on this troubling reality: “When most people aren’t engaging, the courts need to be a backstop for people to ensure that these cases are valid,” he emphasized. The urgency for reform, including better documentation requirements and support for consumers who self-represent, is clear.
Dismissing the Case
On January 15, 2025, Anne Munoz received the news she had fought so hard for—her case was dismissed. Her determination serves as a testament to the power of advocacy and self-research. “I’m not an attorney, but I can read. I can do research, you know?” she reiterated, reminding us that knowledge is power, even if you’re fighting a giant.
A New Mission
But for Anne Munoz, victory is only the beginning. She is committed to helping others who find themselves in similar predicaments. “It’s not just me, there are other people,” Munoz shared, reflecting on the broader implications of her battle. Her story encapsulates the importance of fighting back against predatory practices and supporting those who may not have the resources or knowledge to do so.
Conclusion
Anne Munoz’s story is a powerful reminder that one person’s voice can resonate and effect change. It shines a light on the vulnerability many face when dealing with aggressive debt collection practices, and it encourages others to stand their ground when faced with unjust claims. If you or someone you know is embroiled in a debt-related legal battle, remember Anne’s journey—and know that you have the power to fight back.
In a world where debt collectors often win by default, let’s amplify voices like Anne’s and work toward a fairer system where justice isn’t solely reliant on the consumer’s response. It’s time to demand accountability, transparency, and integrity from debt collectors, and to lend a helping hand to those in need.
Read the story on 12 NEWS
Source: 12 News Phoenix
STM Daily News is a vibrant news blog dedicated to sharing the brighter side of human experiences. Emphasizing positive, uplifting stories, the site focuses on delivering inspiring, informative, and well-researched content. With a commitment to accurate, fair, and responsible journalism, STM Daily News aims to foster a community of readers passionate about positive change and engaged in meaningful conversations. Join the movement and explore stories that celebrate the positive impacts shaping our world.
Discover more from Daily News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Consumer Corner
Trump’s opening tariff salvo will hurt US consumers − following through on Canada, Mexico threats will increase the price pain

Jason Reed, University of Notre Dame
If U.S. voters reelected Donald Trump hoping for relief from higher prices, his recent threats to impose tariffs on America’s three largest trade partners might make them think again.
On Saturday, Feb. 1, Trump announced 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico and 10% tariffs on China, which he said would take effect on Tuesday, Feb. 4. While markets braced for the news to some degree, they still saw a steep premarket sell-off on Monday, Feb. 3, followed by morning volatility.
While Canada and Mexico negotiated monthlong reprieves on Monday, the new tariffs on China went into effect as expected Tuesday, Feb. 4. And while the ultimate shape of Trump’s tariff policy remains to be seen, the president warned that American consumers could feel “some pain” as a result.
Given my training as an economist and finance professor, I think Trump could be right on that score. In fact, if the tariffs go into effect, they could spell disaster for the Federal Reserve’s inflation reduction efforts.
From grocery stores to homes
U.S. consumers might be surprised to find out that almost every economic sector could be affected by this opening salvo of tariffs, should they go ahead in March. Imports from Mexico and Canada reached close to US$1 trillion in 2024, almost double the amount the U.S. imports from China.
The U.S. is particularly reliant on Mexico for fresh fruits and vegetables, and on Canada for lumber. So if the tariffs go into effect, Americans who have been waiting for home prices to ease may have to continue waiting, as tariffs on lumber and other building materials could worsen the affordable-housing crunch. And let’s not even talk about avocado prices.
Meanwhile, the 10% tariffs on Chinese goods will likely boost the price of electronics, and China has already imposed retaliatory measures. Trump has also proposed 25% tariffs on Taiwan and its semiconductor industry, in an attempt to push Taiwanese companies to invest more in U.S. manufacturing. If that tariff were to go into effect, prices for U.S. consumers would be even higher.
A tax by any other name …
Tariffs are an import tax. They’re passed through the supply chain in the form of higher prices and are eventually paid by consumers. Traditionally, governments have used tariffs as a fiscal tool to encourage businesses and consumers to move away from foreign-made products and support domestic businesses instead.
In theory, new tariffs could encourage foreign businesses to invest in the U.S. and make more stuff on American soil. Unfortunately, domestic manufacturing has seen a systemic decline since the 1980s, resulting in lower prices for consumers but severely limiting U.S.-produced products. In the short term, at least, import taxes on Canadian, Mexican and Chinese products would ultimately be paid by U.S. consumers.
Although this round of tariff threats may seem arbitrary to some, the Trump administration says it considers tariffs deeply intertwined with national security concerns. Stephen Miran, Trump’s pick to chair the president’s Council of Economic Advisers, has laid out a path for Trump’s tariff plan, which he says is aimed at putting American industry on fairer ground against the rest of the world.
In the long term, it’s unclear whether Trump’s threatened trade war will bring domestic manufacturing back to the U.S. and start a new industrial renaissance. In the meantime, American consumers will likely be stuck holding the bag.
Jason Reed, Associate Teaching Professor of Finance, University of Notre Dame
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Discover more from Daily News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Business and Finance
Reasons to Consider an Up-and-Coming Career in 2025

(Family Features) If you’re thinking about making a career change, re-evaluating your long-term career path or looking for a career with purpose, there is one path you may not have considered – and it might be the perfect fit: funeral service.
Consider this: Funeral service is facing a critical shortage of skilled professionals in the next decade due to retiring funeral home owners and rising death rates. In fact, the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) estimates 5,700 openings for funeral service workers during each of the next 10 years.
In a world where Gen Zers said having a sense of purpose is important to their overall job satisfaction and well-being, according to a study by Deloitte, there’s an opportunity for business-minded individuals, young professionals and those seeking second career paths to explore this distinguished and fulfilling profession. While 1 in 10 (12%) adults would consider a career as a funeral director, Gen Zers (44%) and Millennials (38%) admit they do not know enough about the profession based on a survey by the NFDA.
There are several reasons to consider funeral service as a career, whether you’re a new grad, a young professional looking to get your foot in the door or someone with years of experience who’d like to test your transferable skills in a new career.
1. Fulfillment and Purpose
Funerals and memorial services are an important part of the grieving process and an opportunity for family and friends to gather to comfort one another and say goodbye to their loved one.
Funeral directors are not just in charge of logistics. They play a vital role in helping families navigate one of the most challenging times in their lives. They provide emotional support, guide families through funeral arrangements and ensure the service honors the deceased’s life.
2. Community Involvement
Funeral directors are often deeply involved in the communities they serve, volunteering with local nonprofit and community organizations, sponsoring little league teams and organizing collections for troops overseas. This sense of community extends beyond the immediate responsibilities of the job, as many funeral directors take on the role of mentors and leaders, guiding the next generation of professionals.
“As I look ahead to the next 15 years of my career and beyond, I ask myself one question and encourage others to do the same, no matter what career they are in: Are you doing the work to inspire a new generation of leaders and being the person you needed when you first started out?” said Allyse Worland, CFSP, licensed funeral director. “For me, the answer is always yes, and I am excited to see what the future holds.”
3. Ability to Own a Business
A career in funeral service offers the opportunity to own your own funeral home. With experience and business skills, you can manage and grow a company that provides essential services to your community. It’s a unique blend of compassion and entrepreneurship, allowing you to make a meaningful impact while running a successful business.
If you’re looking for a meaningful career that combines purpose, community and the opportunity for growth, funeral service might be the path for you. With the occupation’s demand for skilled professionals on the rise, now is the time to consider how you can make a difference in the lives of others while shaping the future of a growing profession.
Learn more about the career path and take a quiz to determine whether it’s right for you by visiting rememberingalife.com/careers.
Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
SOURCE:
National Funeral Directors Association
Discover more from Daily News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Consumer Corner
Capital One Customers Face Issues with Direct Deposits: What You Need to Know

On Thursday, a significant number of Capital One customers reported problems with their direct deposits, causing concern for many who rely on timely access to their funds. As of Thursday morning, more than 2,000 users had expressed frustration over the banking service’s failure to show their expected direct deposits, according to Down Detector, a reputable platform that tracks website and app outages.
By the afternoon, it appeared that some progress had been made, with reports of outages reducing to just over 1,700 by 4:10 p.m. Eastern Time. However, for those affected, the issue created a tense situation, as direct deposits are often critical for managing monthly bills and living expenses.
Real Concerns from Real Customers
Social media was abuzz with complaints, as many customers turned to platforms like X (formerly Twitter) to voice their frustrations. One user summed up the sentiment succinctly: “Some of us have bills to pay and groceries to buy. At least keep us in the loop.” This highlights not only the inconvenience of the technical issue but also the anxiety it causes for individuals who count on their bank to provide reliable services.
Capital One’s Response
In response to the outcry, Capital One acknowledged the issue and assured its customers that it was actively working to resolve the glitch. While specific details about the nature of the technical difficulties have not been disclosed, the bank has expressed its commitment to restoring normal operations as quickly as possible. As financial tech failures can prompt feelings of mistrust, transparency in communication is key during these situations.
What Should Affected Customers Do?
For Capital One customers experiencing issues with their direct deposits, here are a few steps to consider:
- Check for Updates: Stay informed by checking Capital One’s official social media channels and website for updates regarding the technical issues.
- Contact Customer Support: If you haven’t received your expected payment, contact Capital One’s customer service for clarification on your account status.
- Monitor Your Account: Regularly check your bank account for updates on your direct deposit status and any other service announcements.
- Plan for Contingencies: If you anticipate payments may be delayed, consider adjusting your budget temporarily to accommodate any unexpected expenses.
Conclusion
Banking issues like those experienced by Capital One customers on Thursday serve as a reminder of our reliance on financial institutions for our everyday needs. While banks strive to deliver seamless services, technical hiccups can happen. For now, it’s crucial for customers to remain patient and informed as Capital One works diligently to resolve the situation and restore access to their funds.
If you’ve been affected, share your experience and solutions. Community support during these times can make all the difference!
CBS News Reporting on the issue: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/capital-one-direct-deposit-issues/
STM Daily News is a vibrant news blog dedicated to sharing the brighter side of human experiences. Emphasizing positive, uplifting stories, the site focuses on delivering inspiring, informative, and well-researched content. With a commitment to accurate, fair, and responsible journalism, STM Daily News aims to foster a community of readers passionate about positive change and engaged in meaningful conversations. Join the movement and explore stories that celebrate the positive impacts shaping our world.
Discover more from Daily News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
-
Urbanism1 year ago
Signal Hill, California: A Historic Enclave Surrounded by Long Beach
-
News2 years ago
Diana Gregory Talks to us about Diana Gregory’s Outreach Services
-
Senior Pickleball Report2 years ago
The Absolute Most Comfortable Pickleball Shoe I’ve Ever Worn!
-
STM Blog2 years ago
World Naked Gardening Day: Celebrating Body Acceptance and Nature
-
Senior Pickleball Report2 years ago
ACE PICKLEBALL CLUB TO DEBUT THEIR HIGHLY ANTICIPATED INDOOR PICKLEBALL FRANCHISES IN THE US, IN EARLY 2023
-
Travel2 years ago
Unique Experiences at the CitizenM
-
Automotive2 years ago
2023 Nissan Sentra pricing starts at $19,950
-
Senior Pickleball Report2 years ago
“THE PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS OF PICKLEBALL” – VOTING OPEN