Debt Negotiation and Settlement
For anyone getting overwhelmed by debt and possibly considering bankruptcy, getting advice about how to deal with debt may be a good idea. Credit counseling and debt management organizations out there that may be able to assist individuals looking for a way out of their financial problems. However, people need to beware of scams and dubious "credit repair" schemes that also exist in growing numbers. Below are links to helpful resources for help in finding legitimate credit counseling services, as well as how to avoid scams and expensive mistakes. Choose a link from the list to get started.
- Credit Counseling and Counseling Organizations
A guide to choosing the right credit counseling organization. Learn about the benefits associated with debt negotiation services and firms, how to avoid the risks involved, and what to look for in a credit counselor.
- Avoiding Credit Repair and Credit Counseling Scams
Tips on how to avoid the many deceptive agencies that prey on those facing financial hardship. This section offers an overview of credit counseling scams and how to avoid them.
- Dealing with Creditors Informally
A guide to working with creditors in order to repay your debts. Learn about your options as a debtor, including repayment plans, credit counseling organizations, workouts, and more.
- Debt Negotiation Programs
Debt negotiation is a risky practice that can have lasting effects on your credit. Learn how debt negotiation works, how it differs from credit counseling, and how to avoid fraudulent debt negotiation schemes.
- Stop Collector Harassment
A collection of articles on recognizing and stopping harassment from debt collectors. Lean about the types of prohibited debt collection practices, how to stop debt collector harassment, and your rights under the FDCPA.
- State Interest Rate Laws
This section offers a collection of state law summaries dealing with permissible interest rates. Find your state’s interest rate laws to determine the maximum rates, exceptions to the limits, and more.
- Avoiding Credit Repair and Credit Counseling Scams
- Consumer Credit and Debt Counseling
- Creating and Sticking to a Budget
- Debt Negotiation Programs
- FAQs: How to Deal with Debt Collection Agencies
- How to Pay Off Debt FAQ
- How to Stop Debt Collector Harassment
- Loan Workouts and Dealing with Creditors Informally
- Non-Bankruptcy Workouts
- Refinancing Do's and Don'ts
- Repaying Debts
- Sample Billing Dispute Letter NEW!
- Tips for Avoiding Debt
- What is a Debt Management Plan (DMP)?
- What Should I Do if I’ve Been Sued for Debt?
- Which Debt to Pay Off First