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Lone Star Legal Aid Helps Navy Veteran Protect Income from Collection

Jim Bradson is a Navy veteran who relies solely on his Social Security Retirement (SSR) income. During the pandemic, he became indebted to four companies, including the e-commerce company, PayPal. Bradson was already in settlement repayment with the other three companies when he received notice that PayPal sold his debt to a collections company, which then filed a lawsuit. Bradson […]

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SNAP EBT Card Skimming Scam Alert

There have been reports of SNAP fraud all over the country. Thieves use a method called “card skimming” to steal SNAP benefits. Thieves do so by placing a device on a store’s card-swiping machine to copy EBT card information. Card skimming can happen to anyone who uses a credit, debit or EBT card, including SNAP participants. HHS will never call or […]

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Preparing for Extreme Winter Weather

Hurricane season officially ends today, but extreme weather can take many forms. As we head into winter, staying warm and safe can be a challenge. Winter storms can bring cold temperatures, power failures, loss of communication services, and icy roads. To keep yourself and your loved ones safe, you should know how to prepare your home and your car before […]

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Why do lawyers do pro bono?

A lawyer’s job requires them to have a specific skill set that provides benefits beyond the courtroom. Such skilled legal services are often expensive and beyond the reach of many potential clients. When a lawyer provides their services without charge, this is called Pro Bono. Pro Bono volunteer work is especially encouraged for low-income clients and legal aid nonprofits, as […]

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2023 Open Enrollment for Affordable Care Act Coverage is November 1 – January 15, 2023

Overview Most Affordable Care Act Coverage Plans will stay the same, leading into each new year. However, new rules implemented this past year will affect coverage in 2023, reducing your cost. If you haven’t been able to find a plan, or this is your first-time shopping for an affordable health plan, we will go over what you need to know […]

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November 7-11th is Texas Veterans Legal Aid Week 2022

Texas Veterans Legal Aid Week is an annual celebration of our services to Veterans. Texas has the second-highest population of veterans in the nation. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs’ annual survey of homeless and formerly homeless Veterans, legal issues account for five of the top 10 unmet needs of homeless Veterans. Obtaining access to free legal services can […]

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Can I represent myself in court?

In civil matters, all Texans have the right to represent themselves in court. This is called “Pro Se.” Self-representation may be simpler with certain civil legal issues than others, so it is important to do your research. Some people may choose to represent themselves because they cannot afford to hire an attorney. Lone Star Legal Aid, and other legal aid […]

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Protecting Seniors Before and After Disaster

In 2019, the U.S. reported a population of 54.1 million people age 65 or older (the most recent year for which data is available). They represented 16% of the population–more than one in every seven Americans. Older adults consistently experience the most significant percentage of loss during and after natural disasters compared to younger age groups (Fernandez, Byard, Lin, Benson, […]

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Medicare Savings Programs in Texas

Medicare is a federal health insurance program available to those 65 years or older and adults with disabilities. Medicare is split into four parts:  A – hospital insurance B – physician/outpatient services C – Medicare provided by private insurance companies D – prescription drug coverage  If you need help affording Medicare in Texas, you have options. The state offers four […]

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October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month 2022: The Power of the Purple Ribbon

Annually in October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) is recognized to raise awareness of how organizations can come together to educate our communities and collectively advocate to end domestic violence. Each year, Lone Star Legal Aid (LSLA) takes the time to reflect on where we have been in advocating for domestic violence and representing victims, and where we are going […]

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Disaster Preparedness: Getting Your Paperwork in Order

You and your family’s personal safety comes first when preparing for a disaster. Disasters can take lives, homes, cars, as well as all of your personal belongings. Having your personal information and documentation safe is vital to start the recovery process. Taking the time to protect these documents will save you from unnecessary stress following a disaster. You can also […]

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What kinds of issues can legal aid help me with?

Lone Star Legal Aid is one of three legal aid providers in Texas, helping low-income Texans face civil legal issues that create additional barriers to their well-being. We have many units dedicated to different client issues. Here is an exhaustive list of the free services we offer to clients who qualify.   If you have been affected by unfair selling […]

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Student Loan Forgiveness Scams

With the approval of the student loan forgiveness plan, over 8 million borrowers qualify for debt relief. However, the details on how to qualify or apply for relief may be difficult to keep track of, making many parties vulnerable to scams disguised as “assistance.”   You do not need to do anything or pay anyone upfront to apply for the new […]

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Lone Star Legal Aid’s Military and Veterans Unit: Meet the Team

The Houston metro area is home to the nation’s second-largest veteran population and Texas’ largest. Our Military & Veterans Unit (MVU) provides free civil legal services to low-income United States military veterans, their dependents, and surviving spouses throughout Texas.  We can help with: Veteran benefits; Bankruptcy, Expunctions & Non-Disclosures of misdemeanor and felony cases; Custody & Child Support; Consumer Issues, […]

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The 411 on Student Loan Forgiveness

On August 24, 2022, the 46th Administration officially announced a final extension to student loan payments and forgiveness for federal student loan debt of up to $20,000. In the month since, more information has been provided to explain who qualifies and how to claim relief.   Student loan payments can be deferred until December 31, 2022. Payments will resume in January […]

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What is the difference between criminal and civil law?

As a nonprofit legal aid, Lone Star Legal Aid assists the needs of underserved communities. Our goal is not only to represent our clients, but also educate and inform them on the inner workings of the legal system. Those facing legal challenges for the first time may only understand the courtroom as it’s portrayed in the media, film, or television. […]

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How Lone Star Legal Aid is Addressing Climate Anxiety

In a recent article for The Texas Tribune, Erin Douglas writes that “Tens of thousands of coastal Texas residents have survived repeated extreme weather events, including Hurricane Harvey. For many, it has taken an emotional toll, and researchers warn that climate change could be ‘catastrophic’ for our mental health.” As the signs of climate change become more apparent in our […]

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September is National Preparedness Month – Don’t Wait, Communicate 2022

Launched in 2004, National Preparedness Month (NPM) is FEMA’s national annual preparedness outreach. NPM is managed and sponsored by FEMA’s Ready Campaign. The Ready Campaign, in conjunction with the Ad Council, aims to educate and empower Americans during NPM and throughout the year to prepare for and respond to all types of emergencies, including natural disasters and potential terrorist attacks. […]

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Explanation of Language Access Rights

English National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated annually from September 15 to October 15 in the United States to recognize the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States. The theme for 2022 is “Unidos: Inclusivity for a Stronger Nation.” This year, Lone Star Legal Aid stands united with Texas Latinx and […]

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