Debt Settlement History

Debt settlement firms negotiate with creditors to reduce the actual principal balance of their client debt
HIGHLIGHTS
  • In debt settlement, the debt settlement firms negotiate with creditors to reduce the actual principal balance of their clients' debts.
  • Debt settlement is often the only affordable option available to avoid filing for bankruptcy

Debt Settlement: An aggresssive approach to Debt Relief

Debt settlement is generally viewed as a more aggressive approach for consumers than credit counseling, and although it can be more risky, the potential savings achieved in debt settlement are often much greater. In debt settlement, the debt settlement firms negotiate with creditors to reduce the actual principal balance of their clients’ debts. Average negotiated settlements are around 50%4 of principal balance, with lower settlements seen by many consumers.

Debt Relief Options
Background
CCCS History
CCCS Pros
CCCS Cons
Debt Settlement History
Debt Settlement Pros
Debt Settlement Cons
Cost Comparison
Alternative Solutions
Conclusion

Because debt settlement firms negotiate on the principal debt, not the interest rate, many clients will have their debts resolved in three years or less. It is important to be aware, however, that during a debt settlement program no minimum payments are being made by the consumer. This will cause the face value of the debts to grow with over-limit and late fees. In addition, interest will continue to be applied and this additional amount should be calculated in to any savings estimations.

 

 

 

 

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4. Briesch, Richard. “Economic Factors and the Debt Management Industry.” Americans for Consumer Credit Choice. (August, 2009).

Comments (1)


Steve K.
Daly City, CA  |  December 01, 2010
Debt settlement is a far superior option to unsecured debt than bankruptcy or credit counseling. Bankruptcy can leave your credit report in shambles for up to 10 years and viewable in public records for up to 20 yrs. There is some credit impact when doing debt settlement - but not nearly as bad as filing bankruptcy...
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