501 (c)(3) non-profit Organization
11/09/2009
When trying to deal with credit card debt, an option some people may consider is turning to a debt settlement plan.
The Associated Press recently noted that there are things to consider before people go for debt settlement. Through a debt settlement, consumers can negotiate with their lenders to try and reduce the amount of money they owe. People may try to do this on their own, or they may solicit the help of a debt settlement company.
"The incentive for lenders is that they salvage at least part of what they're owed," the report from the AP stated.
Debt settlement does come with some risks. For example, it can stay on a person's credit report for seven years and can affect their credit score. Furthermore, creditors can still come after consumers while a debt settlement company is trying to negotiate on a person's behalf.
Consumers who are considering debt settlement should keep in mind there are other options. For example, they may try going to a credit counseling agency, which can help them set up a budget to deal with their debt.