What is the downside of a debt relief program?

Asked by: Kaya Pagac  |  Last update: May 21, 2025
Score: 4.4/5 (54 votes)

You May End Up with More Debt Than You Started Stopping payment on a debt means you could face late fees and accruing interest. Additionally, just because a creditor agrees to lower the amount you owe doesn't mean you're free and clear on that particular debt.

What are the disadvantages of debt relief order?

Disadvantages
  • A DRO will hurt your credit rating and remain on your credit file for 6 years.
  • If your circumstances change within the 12 months, your DRO may be revoked and you'll have to look at new solutions to repay your debts. ...
  • You can't apply if you've had a DRO or other form of insolvency within the last 6 years.

What are the risks of debt relief programs?

The risks that can come with debt forgiveness include the following:
  • It may not result in owing less. ...
  • It could cause long-term damage to your credit. ...
  • The interest and fees could accumulate. ...
  • It could result in legal action. ...
  • There could be tax consequences. ...
  • There may be other costs, too.

What is a negative of debt relief?

If you've got a debt relief order (DRO) or have had one in the past, it will affect your credit rating. This could mean you find it more difficult to get credit in the future.

What are the cons of the national debt relief program?

A risky way to get out of debt: There are risks in working with National Debt Relief, including a major hit to your credit, falling deeper into debt as you await a successful settlement negotiation and even the possibility of being sued by a creditor.

The Truth About Debt CONsolidation

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Is it a good idea to get debt relief?

If you're one of the millions of Americans struggling to repay high-interest debt, a debt relief plan may be an option to help you get your finances on track. But it's not a quick fix. It's a long-term solution designed to help you get out of debt over a period of time — typically several years.

What two debts cannot be erased?

Perhaps the most common debts that cannot be discharged under any circumstances are child support, back taxes, and alimony. Here are some of the most common categories of non-dischargeable debt: Debts that you left off your bankruptcy petition, unless the creditor had knowledge of your filing. Many types of taxes.

Does debt forgiveness ruin your credit?

The short answer is yes, credit card debt forgiveness can negatively affect your credit score. However, the impact depends on various factors, including your current credit score and the specifics of your debt settlement agreement.

Can I still use my credit card after debt settlement?

So, while you can use your credit card accounts after consolidating your debt in most cases, it could be a bit more difficult to open and use new credit cards — and the route you take to consolidate your debt could play a role as well. Learn how the right debt relief strategy could help you now.

How long does debt relief stay on your credit report?

Duration on your report: Debt settlement can stay on your report for up to seven years. Debt settlement occurs when a company contacts creditors and negotiates a settlement on your behalf. The debt settlement company may ask you to stop paying your creditors and instead pay an amount into a separate account.

How to pay off $10,000 credit card debt?

Here are four of the fastest ways to pay off $10,000 in credit card debt:
  1. Take advantage of credit card debt forgiveness.
  2. Consider credit card debt consolidation.
  3. Use your home equity.
  4. Ask your lenders about financial hardship programs.

Does the government have a debt relief program?

Key Takeaways. There aren't any free government debt relief programs for credit card or personal loan debt other than bankruptcy. Many types of government debt relief exist in the form of grants and low-interest loans for specific purposes.

What are 3 risks associated with a debt settlement program?

Below, we'll explore some of the most common risks associated with credit debt settlement, so you can make a fully informed choice.
  • Creditors May Refuse to Settle. ...
  • Creditor Lawsuits. ...
  • Negative Impact on Credit Score. ...
  • Higher Tax Obligations on Forgiven Debt. ...
  • Fees Charged by Credit Card Settlement Companies.

Can I still have a bank account with a debt relief order?

After a DRO has been approved, your bank may stop letting you use your current bank account. If this happens, speak to your debt adviser to find out what options are available. Your debt adviser may be able to help you set up a new bank account which is not related to any of your debts.

How long does it take to improve credit score after debt settlement?

Credit score improvement after settlement usually takes 12 to 24 months of responsible financial behaviour, timely payments, and account management.

Can I buy a house after debt settlement?

Yes. Of course, you can buy a house after you settle your debt. It's not true that debt will stop you from getting a mortgage.

How long does freedom debt relief ruin your credit?

Type of Debt Relief – Debt Settlement. Eligibility & Requirements – Minimum amount of $7,500 in unsecured debt. Fees – 18%-25% of enrolled debt, plus $9.95 monthly service fee. Credit score impact – Stains credit report for 7 years.

How bad is debt settlement for your credit?

Credit Score Damage: One of the major downsides of debt settlement is the negative impact on credit scores. The process can lower a credit score by 100 points or more, depending on the individual's credit history. This can make it harder to qualify for credit, loans, or favorable interest rates for several years.

How much does debt relief cost?

The debt relief companies that offer debt forgiveness programs typically charge fees for their services, which range from 15% to 25% of the enrolled debt amount. For example, if you're trying to settle $20,000 in credit card debt, you could end up paying between $3,000 and $5,000 in fees alone.

Is debt consolidation a good idea?

Debt consolidation can be a useful financial tool for anyone with multiple debts. It can help you simplify your finances and reduce your interest costs and monthly payments.

How does debt settlement affect your taxes?

Depending on the rest of your financial status, when you have a settled debt for less than the full amount owed, you may owe taxes on the money that was forgiven. The IRS considers any debt cancelation of $600 or more as additional income — and taxable — even if you didn't actually receive any money.

Which debt dies with you?

Most debt will be settled by your estate after you die. In many cases, the assets in your estate can be taken to pay off outstanding debt. Federal student loans are among the only types of debt to be commonly forgiven at death.

What are 2 things that debt collectors are not allowed to do?

Debt collectors cannot harass or abuse you. They cannot swear, threaten to illegally harm you or your property, threaten you with illegal actions, or falsely threaten you with actions they do not intend to take. They also cannot make repeated calls over a short period to annoy or harass you.

Can I buy a car after a 341 meeting?

Bankruptcy petitioners who are employed can often get financing for a car loan after the Section 341 creditor hearing is over, but before their other debts have been discharged. Remember that collections on all your debts are put on hold while the bankruptcy proceedings are pending.