1. What are your fees?A company should charge a fee based on your debt amount paid over a reasonable time. We don't recommend working with companies that collect all their fees before you are able to save money for settlements.
2. Do you have a money back guarantee if I change my mind?
We recommend at least a 30 day money back guarantee. If a company isn't willing to do this, don't be willing to sign up with them.
3. Will my creditors keep calling me?
No one can stop creditors from calling. It may be possible to redirect the calls with new devices, but the phone will still ring.
4. Will you be making monthly payments to my creditors?
Debt Settlement companies do not make payments to creditors. They don't reduce your interest rate or combine your debts into a new loan.
5. Can I get sued?
Yes. A good debt settlement company can help avoid lawsuits, and will settle judgments.
6. What will happen to my credit score?
It will go down, and be considered bad credit. In a debt settlement program, your creditors are not receiving payments, so they report you as late, which makes your score drop. Getting rid of the debt and making on time payments on other accounts (home and car loans) will help the score go back up over time. Or get refered to a 3rd party company for credit enhancement.
7. When can I expect my first settlement?
It will depend on how quickly you can get money into your savings account and depending on the size of your creditor accounts, but most people receive settlement offers within the first six months.
8. Are there tax consequences on forgiven debt?
It is possible to have to pay taxes on the forgiven debt. It can be avoided in many situations, however the possibility does exist.
9. Where is my money going when I make my payments?Your money needs to go to a FDIC insured special purpose account by a third party. No funds should be sent directly to a debt settlement company.
10. Ask have they had any complaints against the company?
They should give you the truth, but go with a company that has no complaints for better service.