Easing Financial Burdens with Debt Management Solutions
Financial crises can happen to anyone at any stage of life and can be frightening. When creditors are calling about late payments and bills are turned over to debt collectors, you worry about your future. But regardless of your situation, debt management solutions can ease your burden.
Examples of Debt Management Solutions
Many debt management solutions are available and range from self-administered programs to bankruptcy. The types of solutions you qualify for depend on how much money you owe, your credit rating, and your ability to pay.
The most common forms of debt management solutions are:
- Self-administered – This is where the debtor takes control of spending by setting up a budget, contacting creditors directly to make arrangements for paying off credit cards.
- Debt consolidation – Sometimes if your credit rating is suitable, you can consolidate your unsecured debt with home equity line or second mortgage. This option can be risky, because if you fall behind on your payments, you might lose your home. A safer alternative is a debt consolidation program through an accredited credit counseling agency (also known as a debt management program or DMP). A DMP consolidates your debt without requiring any additional borrowing, and also provides helpful debt management advice in the form of counseling and educational resources.
- Debt reduction service – In these programs, for-profit organizations negotiate settlements with the debtor’s creditors. Typically these arrangements require you to pay a lump sum on a balance that is less than the full amount you owe. While debt settlement programs may appear to be a good option for debt consolidation relief, it isn’t for everyone. The negotiated lump sum is due in full when the debtor signs an agreement, and creditors are not obligated to honor the terms of the settlement. Settlement also is harmful to your credit rating and you in most cases have to pay taxes on the debt that has been forgiven.
- Bankruptcy – Of all of the debt management solutions, filing for bankruptcy should be considered as a last resort, because it causes further hardships. A bankruptcy is on your credit report for 10 years and can cause problems in getting credit or a job. Many employers check candidates’ credit records and make hiring decisions based on their credit records.
Do You Need More Information about Debt Management Solutions?
Debt management solutions can help you relieve your stress. If you are concerned about your financial future, contact American Consumer Credit Counseling (ACCC) today. ACCC’s certified, professionally trained counselors are here to answer your questions or simply talk about your situation. We can also show you how to consolidate your debt using one of our proven debt management programs. ACCC is accredited by the Better Business Bureau and has an A+ rating, so you can count on us for integrity and superior customer service.
