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From first call to final settlement

Here's what the program looks like month by month, what we do, and what you'll be asked to do.

24–48months, typical program length
1monthly deposit instead of many bills
$0fees until a debt is settled
100%of settlements approved by you
1
Day 1

Free debt review

A 30-minute call with a certified debt specialist. We go through each account, your monthly budget and your goals.

You'll need: a rough list of your debts and balances. A recent statement for each helps but isn't required.
2
Week 1

Enroll and open your dedicated account

If the program fits, you sign up and open a dedicated account in your name. You set a monthly deposit amount that fits your budget.

Good to know: you can withdraw from the program at any time and get your deposited funds back, minus any fees already earned.
3
Months 1–4

Funds build up

Your deposits accumulate. Creditors may contact you during this period; your advocate will tell you how to respond.

Heads up: this is when your credit score is usually affected most, and some creditors may pursue collection.
4
Months 4–40

Negotiations and settlements

As funds allow, our negotiators approach each creditor. When an offer is reached, you review and approve it before anything is paid.

5
Final month

Graduate debt-free from enrolled accounts

The last enrolled account is resolved. We send a completion summary and a plan for rebuilding credit.

Compare your options honestly

Debt settlement isn't the only route. Here's how the main options compare in general terms.

Minimum paymentsConsolidation loanCredit counseling planFreeline program
Typical timeline10–25+ years3–5 years3–5 years2–4 years
Reduces principal?NoNoNoPossibly, via settlement
Needs good credit?NoUsuallyNoNo
Credit impactNeutral if on timeCan be positiveMildOften negative at first
Best forSmall balancesGood credit, steady incomeWant to pay in full$7,500+ in hardship

General comparison for education only. Your best option depends on your situation.

Who the program is a good fit for

  • $7,500 or more in unsecured debt
  • A real hardship — job change, medical bills, divorce, reduced income
  • Able to set aside a consistent monthly amount
  • Want to avoid bankruptcy if possible

Check if I qualify

Person reviewing tax and bill paperwork with a calculator

Program questions

It can, especially at the start. Settlement usually means accounts fall behind before they're resolved. Many clients see their scores recover after the program as balances drop, but every situation is different. We'll walk you through the trade-offs honestly.

Unsecured debts like credit cards, personal loans, medical bills and some private student loans. Mortgages, auto loans, federal student loans and tax debt generally don't qualify.

No. Our fee is charged only after a debt has been settled and you've approved the settlement and made at least one payment toward it.

Then we'll say so. For some people a consolidation loan, a nonprofit credit-counseling plan or simply a better payoff strategy makes more sense, and we'll point you there.

It can be. The IRS may treat forgiven amounts as income. We recommend speaking with a tax professional about your situation.

One phone call. A clear picture of your options.

Free, no-obligation debt review with a certified debt specialist. Checking your options won't affect your credit score.