Bad Credit Debt Solutions

April 14, 2010 - PRLog -- Debt settlement is not for everyone yet the industry has still found its place among troubled borrowers who have bad credit and are trying to avoid bankruptcy and just get rid of their debt once and for all.

Debt settlement is sometimes confused with debt consolidation but it’s a different demon. Instead of offering repayment plans at reduced fixed interest rates, debt settlement companies typically advise their clients to stop paying their bills and instead save up cash, which the company will then use to negotiate lump-sum settlements. The settlements usually wipe out half of the balances so the client pays back a lot less than what they would have normally.

The FTC offers some guidance to help consumers identify legitimate companies. If you're contemplating debt settlement, speak to a certified credit counselor about your situation. When speaking to a counselor about their settlement plan and organization note the following points to touch upon.

Make sure the company doesn’t guarantee any results. This is an honest answer as no agency can guarantee the outcome of a negotiation. By definition alone, negotiation, it’s an impossibility.

Won't accept you if you can actually pay your debt. If you can make your payments a consolidation plan may be better for you. An honest agency will advise such as creditors will not be willing to settle on half the debt when clearly you’re capable of making payments.

Are members of the Better Business Bureau. Easy check, do your homework. bbb dot org

Offer full disclosure of all program fees and costs before the start of a debt-settlement program or signing any paperwork. If you cannot get a definitive figure on the overall fees up front walk away and find another agency.

Inform customers that the IRS classifies any forgiven debt above $600 as income that can be taxed. This is rarely disclosed as it does not become an issue until an account has been paid in full. By then the agency has taken their fees.

Negotiate on an ongoing basis with creditors and present all settlement offers to the customer. A customer service department should be available during business hours to not only field creditor calls, but to stay in contact with the consumer providing any and all updates on the settlement negotiations and creditor updates.

For a free debt settlement quote or more information on what debt free option is best for you visit our website 888hatedebt.org and complete our contact request form or speak to a certified credit counselor via our LIVE CHAT feature. Want to speak to someone right away? Call 888.428.3332 and see how you can eliminate your bad credit debt.

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Certified credit counselors work with potential clients to assess their current financial situation and determine what their best option may be.