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Struggling with debt? Get started

A few quick questions

A few quick questions

How much debt do you owe?

Credit cards, personal loans, medical bills and other unsecured debt

debtreliefy is a marketing company, not a debt relief provider, and doesn't give financial or legal advice. With your consent, we pass your details to a debt relief company that may pay us. Results vary and aren't guaranteed.

Your debt options explained

This is general information about the main debt relief options in the US. It isn't advice, and debtreliefy can't tell you which option, if any, is right for you. Most of these options can affect your credit score, and some involve fees.

Debt settlement

A company negotiates with your creditors to accept less than the full balance. You usually save into a dedicated account each month, and settlements are paid from it.

  • Usually for unsecured debt such as credit cards, medical bills and personal loans. Federal student loans aren't eligible.
  • Your credit score will likely drop, and creditors can keep collecting or sue while you're in the program.
  • Fees can only be charged after a debt is settled. Forgiven debt may be taxable.

Debt management plan (DMP)

A nonprofit credit counseling agency arranges one monthly payment to your creditors, often with reduced interest rates.

  • You repay the full balance, usually over three to five years.
  • Credit card accounts in the plan are normally closed.
  • Small setup and monthly fees may apply.

Debt consolidation loan

A new personal loan pays off several debts, leaving you with one fixed monthly payment.

  • Only helps if the new interest rate is lower than what you pay now.
  • Approval and your rate depend on your credit and income.
  • Origination fees may apply, and you still repay the full amount.

Balance transfer card

Moving credit card balances to a card with a low or 0% introductory rate.

  • Usually needs good credit to qualify.
  • Transfer fees are common, and the rate rises when the intro period ends.
  • Best for debt you can pay off within the intro period.

Bankruptcy

A legal process in federal court. Chapter 7 can wipe out many debts; Chapter 13 sets up a three-to-five-year repayment plan.

  • Stays on your credit report for up to 10 years.
  • You may lose some property, and court and attorney fees apply.
  • Some debts, like most student loans and child support, usually can't be discharged.

Negotiating yourself

Calling your creditors directly to ask for a lower rate, a hardship program or a settlement.

  • There's no company fee, but creditors don't have to agree.
  • Get any agreement in writing before you pay.
  • Settled accounts can still affect your credit score.
Read the FTC's guide to getting out of debt