The Preferred Choice, Debt Settlement:
Why Debt Settlement?
As you consider your debt relief options, it is important to ask
yourself: “Why choose debt settlement over other debt relief options?”
Debt Settlement Saves You Money
The process of settling your debts involves a negotiation with your
creditors to settle for less than the amount you owe. The average
settlement ranges from 40-60% depending on the creditor. We have
achieved some settlements are for as little as 20% of the principal
balance. Your credit rating will likely be damaged during the
enrollment period, but each settlement will be noted by the credit
reporting agencies as “paid in full” or “settled in full” – meaning you
paid your debt for an agreed upon settlement.
With a debt management plan through a consumer credit counseling
agency, you will still have to pay the full principal balance along
with some interest (7-10%). This process will still take an average of
5-7 years. Their role is little more than glorified collection
agencies. Remember, they are partially funded by the Credit Card
Industry itself working for them, not really you (the client).
Bankruptcy stays on your credit report for ten years, dragging you into
the “high risk” credit category. When it is time you need to purchase a
car or home using credit, the interest rates and conditions will end up
costing you much more, if even an approval. Even if you plan to rent a
house or apartment, the rental office will pull your credit history and
see your bankruptcy filing – and your deposit may be adjusted
accordingly.
It seems backwards that deposits and interest rates are increased for
those who historically have had less money. Those with less are forced
to pay more.
If you choose to only pay the minimum monthly payments, you will end up
paying more than twice the amount you borrowed. When you miss a
payment, your creditors will raise your interest rates and apply
penalty fees that can raise your debt to unmanageable levels.
If you choose to consolidate your debt, you need to understand that
taking a second mortgage or home equity loan replaces your unsecured
debt with one secured debt. Where there was no collateral to take if
you were unable to pay your debts, the new creditor can now take your
home if you run into financial hard times – which is not unusual. It is
possible that this option may actually cost you your home.
Debt Settlement Is Faster
The only faster way for someone having a financial hardship to pay off
their debts faster than debt settlement is bankruptcy. For those
wanting to avoid the stress, social stigma and intrusion of bankruptcy,
debt settlement is the reasonable alternative. Typical debt settlement
plans cam resolve debt in as little as three (3) years.
A debt management plan through a creditor-funded and
creditor-controlled consumer credit counseling firm can take anywhere
between five (5) to seven (7) years. A consolidation loan using your
home equity or second mortgage does little to resolve your debt
quickly. You have moved an unsecured debt with a secured one. Typical
minimum payments on a consolidation loan, will typically take 15 to 30
years to pay off and cost you more than twice what you borrowed.
Debt Settlement Causes Less Stress
Dealing with bankruptcy’s social stigma can be very stressful. There
are times when bankruptcy is the best choice, and you should consult
with a bankruptcy attorney about your current situation. However,
most people surveyed after filing bankruptcy said they would try to
avoid it if put in the same situation.
When a debtor enrolls in a debt management program through a consumer
credit counseling agency, the accounts enrolled with the program will
say “Under Debt Management” or “CCC” and this notation is seen as a
negative mark by those who look into at your credit report, such as a
rental office or potential employer. The stress of dealing with
negative marks for the next five to seven years is something to
consider. Remember, these agencies are funded by the same creditors
from which you are seeking accommodation.
Imagine the stress of offering your home as collateral against your
unsecured debt. Your minimum payment will likely be the same or higher
than what you are paying now. When missing payments means risking your
home, the stress can be intolerable. Imagine being thrown from your
home and seeking an apartment, knowing your credit score was destroyed.
Your rental office will see your credit report and more than likely
adjust your deposit to meet your high-risk credit classification.
An Alternative to Bankruptcy
Debt settlement is faster, cost you less and eases collection related
stress. Fill out the form below. A highly trained Debt Consultant will
contact you to discuss your specific situation and concerns. Once
contacted, we will be in contact with you within 24 hours.
