Facing a debt collection lawsuit? Here's what to do in the next 30 days.

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Household debt remains at record highs right now, and for many borrowers, keeping up with monthly payments has become more difficult as elevated interest rates, stubborn inflation and years of high borrowing costs continue to strain budgets. While missing a payment or two due to tight finances can feel manageable at first, it can quickly shift into dangerous territory. As those missed payments pile up, the situation may transform from a delinquent debt into a legal matter that suddenly demands immediate attention.

That shift can be unsettling. Legal documents and court papers often raise more questions than answers, and it's easy to assume there's little that can be done once a debt lawsuit has been filed. In reality, though, being sued over unpaid credit card debt doesn't automatically mean a creditor will win or that every collection tool is suddenly available to them. But it does mean the clock has started ticking and every day that passes can have a big impact on the outcome.

The first month after you're served is especially important because it's when you'll need to decide how to respond. And, understanding which steps matter most — and when to take them — can put you in the best possible position to resolve the debt. So, what should you do in the first 30 days after being served with a debt collection lawsuit? That's what we'll examine below.

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The days after being served with a debt collection lawsuit can be stressful, but taking a methodical approach can help you protect your legal rights and improve your chances of resolving the issue. Here's how to approach the first 30 days after being served:

Your first instinct may be to set the paperwork aside while you figure out what to do. Resist that temptation. Start by reviewing every page you received instead. Identify who is suing you, the amount they're claiming you owe, the court handling the case, and, most importantly, your deadline for responding. That deadline varies by state but is often only a few weeks after you're served.

You should pay particular attention to whether the lawsuit was filed by your original creditor or by a debt buyer that purchased the account. That distinction could become important later if documentation of the debt becomes an issue.

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Before deciding how to respond, make sure the debt is accurate. Collect any acco