- Service Defenses
- Legal defenses based on how — or whether — you were properly served with the Summons and Complaint. If the plaintiff did not follow the correct legal process to deliver court papers to you, you may be able to challenge the court's ability to proceed. Examples: you never received the papers, or they were not delivered according to New York law.
- Defenses
- Specific legal reasons why you should not be held liable for the debt. These can include: the debt is not yours (identity theft), you already paid it, the amount is wrong, the plaintiff has no legal right to sue you, the statute of limitations has expired, the debt was discharged in bankruptcy, or the contract is unfair (unconscionable).
- Other Reason / Extra Defense
- A free-text field where you can write in any defense or explanation not covered by the checkboxes above. Use this to add facts specific to your situation — for example, if you have a written agreement showing the debt was settled, or if there are other circumstances the court should know about.
- Only Source of Income That Is Exempt From Collection (Optional)
- If a judgment is entered against you, certain income sources are protected by law and cannot be garnished. Examples include Social Security, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), disability benefits, unemployment insurance, and veterans' benefits. Stating your exempt income on the answer puts the plaintiff and court on notice.
- Counterclaim Amount (Optional)
- If you believe the plaintiff violated the law in connection with this debt — for example, by violating the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) or New York consumer protection laws — you may be entitled to money damages. Enter the dollar amount you are seeking from the plaintiff.
- Counterclaim Reason (Optional)
- A brief description of why you believe the plaintiff owes you money. Common examples: unlawful collection activity, harassment, reporting false information to credit bureaus, or suing on a time-barred debt.
- Short Explanation for Your Case (Optional)
- A plain-language summary of your position. This is your opportunity to tell your side of the story in your own words. Keep it factual and focused on why you are disputing the debt or amount. This does not need to be legal language — just a clear, honest explanation.