American Express is turning up the heat on Nelly over an unpaid $20,000-plus credit card debt.
American Express filed a lawsuit in a Missouri court in October against the rap star, whose real name is Cornell Iral Haynes, Jr.
American Express is seeking the payment of a $20,403.64 credit card bill, which they claim Nelly never paid, plus an additional $3,000 in attorney's fees, according to several media reports.
A court hearing is scheduled for Jan. 9. The rap star, known for hit songs such as a "Hot in Herre" and "Dilemma," will kick off 2012 having to answer for a pretty massive credit card bill.
Will the new year find you grappling with some hefty credit card bills of your own? If you find yourself unable to pay a credit card bill, even the minimum payment, contact your issuer immediately. Getting behind on payments -- and ignoring your creditors -- could eventually result in a lawsuit, as in Nelly's case.
Be honest about your financial situation. Your credit card company may be able to offer a temporary hardship payment plan.
Another way to get a handle on your debt is by seeking help from a reputable nonprofit credit counselor. A free budgeting session with a counselor may help you find the money you need to pay off your bills. To find a counselor in your area, check out the National Foundation for Credit Counseling or the Association of Independent Consumer Credit Counseling Agencies.
This post originally appeared at Bankrate.
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