Michael Johnson, Attorney at Law

Are you tired of living with debt? Credit cards, personal loans, IRS back taxes, medical bills, business debt, car repossessions can all be very stressful. If debt is effecting your health and happiness, contact us today for a free case review to see if we can help you get on the path to a better life.

2021 tax deadline https://www.irs.gov//2021-tax-filing-season-begins-feb-12-

"The two most important days in your life are the day you are born , and the day you find out why." - Mark Twain I think there are several "days" when people have realizations as to why they were born and for different reasons "why". I am grateful that I can help people who are going through hard times either financially or with issues relating death. The law provides different ways to help people through such challenges and I am grateful for the work I am able to do in serving a greater good.

Here is a link to the form with the steps and instructions from Dept. of Housing and Community Development on how to do the Changing Ownership Into the Name of a Trust for a Home on Local Property Tax with HCD Certificate of Title https://www.hcd.ca.gov//registration-t/docs/hcdrt804-6.pdf

Link to California's Registration and Titling Forms Buy, Sell, or Transfer a Mobilehome/Manufactured Home Instructions https://www.hcd.ca.gov//r/registration-titling-forms.shtml

Happy 4th of July! Take a minute and read rmthe Declaration of Independence and to reflect on of the sacrfices that have been made to give us this blessed country. https://www.archives.gov/founding-do/declaration-transcript

Historical background on bankruptcy https://www.michaeljohnsonlaw.com/historical-bankruptcy-on/

Sometimes during difficult time you need to turn to others for help. https://www.michaeljohnsonlaw.com/the-plight-of-the-pandem/

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Benjamin Franklin

If your life has gone to the dogs give me a call!

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Benjamin Franklin

I enjoyed spending my Saturday morning helping some neighbors pick lemons from their tree to donate to the Elk Grove Food Bank. As they say, if life gives you lemons make lemonade. If you feel like you have too much debt or lemons... in your life maybe it's time for a fresh start? Contact us today to learn about what debt resolution options may be available for you and start turning those lemons into lemonade!

Unfortunately, life is getting more and more expensive. Sometimes it's hard to keep up. If you need a fresh start with your finances contact us for a free consultation. Here is a recent news article from CBSNEWS.COM about the high cost of living in California. https://www.cbsnews.com//families-earning-117000-now-qual/

Happy New Year 2019! Is it time for a fresh start with your finances or are you ready to stop putting off preparing your living will or trust? If so, please contact our office today for a face to face meeting to review your situation and to see how you can make your 2019 a better year!

It's tax time. If you are getting a tax refund are you still one of those who uses it for something "fun"? This article says more people are using their tax refunds for the necessities of life. https://www.usatoday.com//why-tax-refunds-arent/110986636/

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year 2019 to you and your loved ones!

We don’t learn from experience. We learn from reflecting on experience. ----- John Dewey

By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest. ----Confucius.

Unfortunately, life is getting more and more expensive. Sometimes it's hard to keep up. If you need a fresh start with your finances contact us for a free consultation. Here is a recent news article from CBSNEWS.COM about the high cost of living in California. https://www.cbsnews.com//families-earning-117000-now-qual/

Many thanks! Many chocolates! Lol

Article from the New York Times that points out that the measuring stick of poverty across the world, The World Bank, "adjusts its poverty estimates for differences in prices across countries, but it ignores differences in needs." This means that once adjusted "there are 5.3 million Americans who are absolutely poor by global standards." Why are so many Americans struggling? The article says, "it is precisely the cost and difficulty of housing that makes for so much miser...y for so many Americans, and it is precisely these costs that are missed in the World Bank’s global counts." Expensive housing causes people to have less money for their basic needs, causing them to borrow money to live off of, and then forcing them into debt. Fortunately, bankruptcy can serve as a form of relief valve to alleviate some of the financial hardship. https://www.nytimes.com//opinion/poverty-united-states.html

It's tax time. If you are getting a tax refund are you still one of those who uses it for something "fun"? This article says more people are using their tax refunds for the necessities of life. https://www.usatoday.com//why-tax-refunds-arent/110986636/

Good article that explains how easy it is for lower income people to slip behind and stay behind with rising food costs and exorbitant fees. https://www.washingtonpost.com//why-it-costs-so-much-to-/

The month of JANUARY is named after the Roman God Janus, who had two faces, one that looked to the PAST and one to the FUTURE. If you are looking at your PAST and see debt and struggles, then maybe its time to do something about it for a better FUTURE. Filing bankruptcy has helped millions of people get a fresh start to be able to move forward in life. If this sounds like you, call for a FREE CONSULTATION (916) 350-4829. http://www.dictionary.com/e/january/

Sometimes people get into debt because of a lack of understanding of personal finances. Take this quiz to see where you stand. https://www.usatoday.com//you-financially-smart/489963002/

In my spare time I enjoy serving as a scout master and seeing the boys grow and give service to their community such as this Eagle project at a local elementary school.

Trying to spread some Christmas cheer with my family and brother by helping to hand out blankets and other essentials to those in need. Merry Christmas.

Happy Thanksgiving from my family to yours.

Revealing article that says 1/2 of Americans did not receive a raise this past year. How is that significant? Well, for those that are on a budget know that utilities keep going up, gas prices keep going, insurance costs keep going up, food costs keep going up, etc. As such, this is one way that many Americans fall behind. Bankruptcy is not a complete solution but it can help wipe out past unsecured debt, medical bills, judgments, and more to help give people breathing room. https://www.usatoday.com//pay-raises-survey-ind/864433001/

Wishing the best to our Veterans and families who have served to protect this great country.

http://s.ripl.com/cjmbs2 #attorney via ripl.com

Student loans sometimes are a necessary evil, but generally should be avoided at all costs. It is nearly impossible to discharge them in bankruptcy while living and then when you die you may be leaving a burden on loved ones if they were co-signers. This article talks about such issues... https://finance.yahoo.com//happens-student-loan-debt-die-1

#autumn #debtrelief #bankruptcy via ripl.com

More financial troubles for several retail stores according to a recent Bank rate article.. If you are having your own financial challenges contact our office for a confidential consultation. http://www.bankrate.com//8-retail-chains-closing-hundred/

When it comes to estate planning it is your choice, regardless of what others think, to set forth your wishes in a will or trust. Here is an article of a well known celebrity who did just that... http://www.latimes.com//la-et-entertainment-news-updates-j

High housing costs are one cause of why people get into debt in other areas. Here is an article that says that home prices are reaching pre-crash levels... http://www.sacbee.com//real-estate-n/article170263857.html

Article from USA Today on the Equifax data breach... https://www.usatoday.com//how-freeze-your-credi/657304001/

This article says personal debt for Americans is growing to record levels... http://viralliberty.com/debt-balances-u-s-households-now-g/

This article says many retailers are struggling to avoid bankruptcy... http://viralliberty.com/true-religion-apparel-becomes-next/

Costs of living keep going up. Look at these 7 expenses that are rising faster than inflation. From USA TODAY 7 expenses growing much faster than inflation... https://usat.ly/2tMy5HJ "I continue to believe that the American people have a love-hate relationship with inflation. They hate inflation but love everything that causes it." William E. SimonFormer Treasury Secretary William Simon is right about our attitudes toward inflation. No one likes seeing the prices of things they need to buy rising but some of the underlying causes of inflation aren't so distasteful. For instance, when consumer demand outstrips supply, that can lead to price inflation but it also reflects a burgeoning economy and busy businesses. Over long periods, the average annual inflation rate has been around 3%, though it has surged into double digits on occasion and has recently run well below 3%.

"The future is no place to place your better days." If you're tired of living with debt and hoping that your future will get better, then maybe it's time for a fresh start. Call today for a free consultation.

https://www.whitehouse.gov//president-donald-j-trump-procl

Straightforward article about how bankruptcy can help people get rid of paralyzing debt and move forward in life. http://www.mensfitness.com//5-reasons-filing-bankruptcy-co

If there is one truism about any economy, it is that it will invariably change. The same can be said about one's personal finances as well. Bankruptcy can be used as a tool to help get out of debt and to help recover from your own bad personal economy.

"Discipline and freedom are not mutually exclusive, but mutually dependent because without discipline we would sink into chaos." Paulo Coelho. I like this quote, because it reminds us that we need to take control of our situations and be disciplined to change our circumstances. If you are feeling bogged down with debt and sinking into chaos, then take control and be disciplined to do something about it.

"You become what you think. Don’t think of yourself as a victim or a failure. Think of yourself as a winner." Mykelti Williamson This is a great quote. Take the steps in your life to stop living as a victim and to push forward to happiness and stability. If you are overwhelmed with debt due to job loss, divorce, health issues, or poor planning, stop living with regret and start thinking of a new future. Bankruptcy can help people get a fresh start and regain a better life.

That call from an unlisted number? Might be a collections rep for IRS Starting this spring, the IRS will use private debt collectors to collect overdue bills. Check out this story on USATODAY.com: http://usat.ly/2k8DdnQ

Unfortunately student loan debt can't typically be discharged in bankruptcy even though it is a problem for so many people. From USA Today http://usat.ly/2k1TKdF... Older Americans over 60 now drowning in student loan debt

"Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that." Martin Luther King, Jr.

From USA Today Chinese don't have wills now it's a big problem http://usat.ly/2iWY5dv... BEIJING The world's most populous nation has the second-largest economy, one of the highest savings rates and mushrooming wealth. Yet virtually no one has a will to pass on an estate. And now it's become a huge problem.Thirty years after communist China embarked on a course that allowed individuals to accumulate wealth, members of the first generation to benefit are starting to die, creating a spike in inheritance disputes that are clogging up the courts and turning families against each other.The problem has gotten so bad that even the ruling Communist Party previously no fan of inherited wealth is concerned.When people die without a will their children scramble for their property, damaging family ties and having a negative effect on society, the state-run Xinhua News Agency has warned.

We all hope for the best in 2017! Yet, don't go into the new year 2017 without a will or trust to protect your family and wishes. Failure to have a proper estate plan can create unwanted problems which can be avoided with a simple estate plan.

Hope you and your loved ones have a safe and Happy New 2017 Year!

Hope you and your loved ones have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Thank you to those who have served in the armed forces to protect our freedoms and civil liberties. Happy Veterans Day. https://www.va.gov/opa/vetsday/

I try to get to know each client the best I can to help each one in their own individual way. I also enjoy meeting new people and sharing things that we have in common. I thought it was very nice that one former client even remembered that we both like the same type of music and dropped off a mouse pad with a favorite rock band! It had nice note that read, "Michael - Just a small thank you for making our BK process fairly painless. Hope you like the gift, glad you appreciate "real music" like us! :) " I'm lucky to work with with great people and to help through the ups and downs of life.

I like what one of our former Presidents said at the dedication of the National Museum of African American History... "A great nation does not hide its history, it faces its flaws and corrects them." http://www.usatoday.com//national-museum-african/90837832/

Our office is proud to support Hope for Healthy Families Counseling Centers and CCHAT Center with their upcoming fund raiser and activity to create awareness. Come join the fun! http://www.hopeforhearinghalloweenrun.org/

Some good friends of mine are working to bring awareness to counseling for low income individuals and advancements for the hearing impaired. If you would like to help these causes you can participate in an upcoming fun run on Saturday, October 29, 2016. http://www.hopeforhearinghalloweenrun.com/

Happy Memorial Day. In my personal time I like to volunteer and to work with the scouts to help them develop a love and appreciation for this great country of ours. While camping this weekend with them I was able to teach them respect for our nation's flag by showing them the proper way to retire a flag. Our flag symbolizes those who have served and even died for the freedoms we have today and our flag should always be treated with respect. God bless America.

It is important to pay your taxes, file complete returns, and to keep good records as you never know if you may be subject of an audit or investigation. http://www.foxnews.com//irs-took-43m-from-americans-under-

Yum! http://www.elkgrovechilifestival.com/

Always lots of fun in Elk Grove... http://www.elkgrovewesternfestival.org/

Tomorrow... https://www.justserve.org/project/details/

The Law Office of Michael Johnson is proud to support and to volunteer in community service efforts on www.justserve.org

A few things to look forward to as you get older: 50 I can join AARP and get senior discounts 55 I can finally live in adult only housing 60 Can use a Regency Theater Discount card... 62 Social security decision time. Reverse Mortgage possibility 65 Medicare 70.5 Start taking money out of your IRA's See more

http://www.heritage.org/index/

Life seems to be more and more expensive. Bankruptcy can help be a relief valve when finances become difficult. This article from the WSJ says... "The average 65-year-old borrower has 47% more mortgage debt and 29% more auto debt than 65-year-olds had in 2003, after adjusting for inflation." http://www.wsj.com//new-york-fed-finds-large-increase-in-d

There is nothing more important or sacred than our personal freedom and to be treated equally in the eyes of the law and other human beings. Here is an interesting article explaining why today we observe Martin Luther King Jr. Day: http://www.cnn.com///17/opinions/brazile-mlk-day-turns-30/

For most Millennials pensions and life time benefits are no longer readily available like they were for our grandparents. As such, according to a recent article in the USA Today, investing is key to future financial security. However, before someone begins to invest the first step is getting out of debt. Bankruptcy can often help people get out of debt and start the path to building their future. http://www.usatoday.com//scariest-statistic-mill/77761280/

Interesting article in the WSJ about how Millennials struggle to understand how money works and are burden with personal debt and student loans. Many are even turning to pay day loans to manage their finances. Fortunately, if such individuals get in over their head bankruptcy can be a means to help them regroup and start over. http://www.wsj.com//2DBCC7CF-684D-466F-8261-9E846036E214.h

I am thankful for those that have served in the Armed Forces and it is wonderful to have Veterans Day as a day to honor those that have served in the armed forces. Read the original October 8, 1954 Veterans Day Proclamation here: http://www.va.gov/opa/vetsday/docs/proclamation_1954.pdf

The year 2015 is almost over. If you are worried about your bills and wondering how you're going to make it in 2016, then feel free to contact my office for a free and confidential consultation to discuss ways you might be able to resolve your debt.

Although there are many types of debts that can be discharged in bankruptcy, student loan debt (absent extreme circumstances) is one of the types of debts that cannot be discharged in bankruptcy. Thus, future college students should factor in how much debt they will incur when selecting a college to attend. Obviously, the lower the debt the better. The U.S. Department of Education now has a "college score card" that can be used as a helpful tool for selecting an affordable college to attend. https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/