I recommend researching all companies though first, and this includes searching the company name in any search engine (Google, in example).  If you search for the company name in quotations (“Debt Settlement ABC”), this will narrow your search to the most relevant content.  Also check with the Better Business Bureau.  Consumers can file complaints with the BBB even if the company is not a registered member.  The BBB will also provide a company score even if they do not pay for the membership.  This is an easy way to see if complaints are being filed on a company.  Always do your homework before you hire anyone for debt management services.

photo credit: Andres Rueda

This post via the Freedom Debt Management blog, an educational resource to help you gain control of your debt management and finances.

Debt Settlement Companies

If you feel you just simply cannot pay down your debt, either because your minimum payments are too high as compared to your income, or because you have recently lost your job, consumer debt negotiation may be an alternative for you.

Negotiating with your creditors can sometimes be difficult if you are current with your payments.  This is unfortunate, but I have found it to be challenging to get any response in terms of negotiation with the credit card companies for clients that pay their bills on time. 

If you are already behind though, the credit card companies seem to be more open to discussing, especially if they think there is a chance that you will file bankruptcy, in which they may get little or no repayment of the debt.  I will evaluate the alternatives for various situations to help you determine if debt negotiation will work in your situation.

photo credit: TheTruthAbout…

This post via the Freedom Debt Management blog, an educational resource to help you gain control of your debt management and finances.

Consumer Debt Negotiation