If you have been struggling with debt and need help, debt relief options are available to you. Debt relief plans can make repayment easier, but there is a risk of being ripped off. Don’t pay upfront for services, or be rushed into a decision by unscrupulous debt relief organizations that want to take your money. Don’t let them promise you a lower debt settlement or refuse to give you free information about their services. Any company that says they can stop debt collection calls is probably a scam.
A free consultation with a debt relief company can help you make an informed decision about which option is best for you. Many companies require a minimum of $10,000 in debt to offer a debt settlement plan. The fee for a debt settlement program is around 20 percent to 25% of the debt. But if you’ve had trouble paying your bills and only want a discount, this option may not be for you. Many companies will charge a percentage of the amount they save you, so it’s important to consider the costs of debt relief services before making a decision.
While debt consolidation is a great way to reduce your monthly payment, there are many other methods available. Using a debt consolidation company may not be the best choice for you. Consolidating your debt into a single payment is the best option if your credit score is good enough and your interest rate is low. If you can afford it, debt consolidation may be the right option. Often, these options will save you money and minimize the damage to your credit over the long term.
When choosing a debt settlement company, be sure to check the company’s accreditation and ratings. The Better Business Bureau, the American Fair Credit Council, and other organizations monitor debt settlement companies. Reading consumer reviews about a debt relief company is an excellent way to find out if they’re a scam. You’ll learn about hidden fees, bad outcomes, and bad reviews. So, do your homework and get the best debt relief company for your financial situation.
When you stop making payments to your creditors, you’ll be bombarded with letters and calls. Your debt relief company can help you deal with the letters and calls. The company will negotiate with your creditors as your representative. Debt settlement companies argue that a partial repayment is better than no repayment at all, and creditors are generally less likely to pursue collection efforts if you’re in the situation. This option can help you pay off debt in four to five years, rather than the many years it may take to file for bankruptcy.
If you’re struggling with overwhelming debt, the best way to decide whether you should seek professional help is to evaluate your financial situation and the need for debt relief. If you’re able to work out your debt, you may be able to avoid a bankruptcy filing altogether by practicing good money management and budgeting. Often, people lump all of their debt together. That makes it harder for debt relief programs to effectively help you deal with all types of debt.
The government has also stepped in and made the process easier for consumers. Many companies and financial institutions have helped borrowers who need debt relief. In many cases, debt relief companies took advantage of consumers who had little to no financial literacy and were unable to pay their bills. However, they may have ulterior motives that put the consumer at risk of bankruptcy. So, debt relief programs are becoming a popular solution to the problem of unmanageable debt.
A debt settlement company may charge a fee to help a person negotiate a debt settlement. They negotiate with creditors on behalf of their clients to settle a fraction of what they owe. In turn, clients should be debt free and able to pay their debts. If you have exhausted all of your other options and still cannot afford to pay your bills, consider using a debt relief company. However, be aware that debt settlement programs do have some major risks and drawbacks. Always research and understand your situation before taking on a debt settlement program.
Another debt relief company that offers a free consultation is Freedom Debt Relief. This California-based company employs more than 2,000 debt experts and has been in business since 2002. Its services are backed by an excellent reputation and an accreditation from the American Fair Credit Council and the International Association of Professional Debt Arbitrators. The company has a B rating from the Better Business Bureau. Its highly trained professionals specialize in private unsecured debt settlement. You can ask your certified debt consultant about the details of your debt and what you hope to achieve. Your consultant will craft a personalized debt settlement plan that works for you.
