I have seen and heard lots of advertising by companies saying they can settle my debts for very little and help me avoid filing bankruptcy. Does this work?

Unfortunately, debt settlement falls under the “if it sounds too good to be true, it is” category.  While I am sure there may be a few success stories from people using these companies, I have yet to personally hear of one.  Instead I have heard many complaints from clients who have wasted thousands of dollars on these “settlement” plans before having to turn to bankruptcy because of lawsuits and garnishments.  Read the Federal Trade Commision's report on the subject here.

The problem is most people cannot afford to pay enough monthly to settle each credit card debt before at least one of the credit card companies file suit, obtains a judgment, and attempts garnishment.  Also, if you can afford to save enough to do this, you could settle your credit card debt on your own without paying the high fees these debt settlement companies charge.

Speaking of the fees, remember that even though these companies may call themselves “non-profit” and a few may technically qualify under the tax laws (this is apparently being questioned by the IRS), it does not mean they are a charity.  These companies are clearly making lots of money.  Why else would they be multiplying like rabbits and how else could they be buying all of that advertising?

Many people think they are saving their credit by using these debt settlement companies.  If your credit score has not already been significantly lowered before you use one of these companies, it will be by time you finish (which I have yet to see) or drop out.  Settling for less than the amount owed is a negative on your credit report in itself.  Add to that charge offs and judgments from the card companies that are not settled early and your credit score will show tremendous damage.  A bankruptcy’s effect on your credit would be very similar and allow a quicker recovery.

A bankruptcy may or may not be the answer for you, but do not buy the hype of these debt settlement companies and fall for their anti-bankruptcy propaganda.  Do your research on these companies by checking with the Better Business Bureau and educate yourself about bankruptcy by getting your free copy of my The Alabama Bankruptcy Book by clicking here.