As consumer debt climbs across the U.S., many people are desperately searching for ways to regain control. Finding a ...

There are a few programs and policies that make medical debt relief more accessible now. Here's who could qualify.

Debt consolidation loans are often a first choice for simplifying multiple debts into a single payment, ideally with a lower interest rate. But by the time you apply, you might be facing challenges ...

You might not have enough debt for debt relief: Most debt relief companies only work with clients who have at least $7,500 or $10,000 in unsecured debt. In addition, any account you enroll in the ...

Nonprofit debt consolidation is a financial strategy that helps people manage and reduce their debt. It can be a smart option, but you need to understand how it works, the benefits and drawbacks ...

So if you have $5,000 in enrolled debt, you could end up paying the debt relief company between $750 and $1,250 in fees. Once you approve a settlement, your debt relief company will draw that ...

A debt management plan (DMP) is available through non-profit credit counseling agencies. Under a DMP, you make a single payment to the agency, and they disburse it to your creditors based on an ...

Consider negotiating directly with creditors, non-profit credit counseling, balance transfer credit cards, debt consolidation loans, income-driven student loan repayment, or bankruptcy (as a last ...

Most debt relief companies require clients to enroll a certain amount of debt, with typical minimums from $7,500 to $10,000. But the typical client has much more – about $25,000, according to ...

Money Management International is a non-profit credit counseling agency that's been helping people improve their lives through financial education, since the 1950s.

Comparing several companies can also help you decide if a debt relief program is your best option. Getting a plan in writing upfront prevents disputes regarding fees and servicer promises.

Beware of for-profit debt settlement companies that promise to erase or lower your debt for a fee. According to the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau, these companies can’t guarantee success.