Is credit card consolidation something I should consider?

If you're overwhelmed by your credit card debt and trying to avoid bankruptcy, consolidation might be the solution you've been searching for. Most providers of credit card consolidation programs offer a free consultation, to determine what strategies are best for your situation.

Isn't credit card consolidation basically taking out a loan?

That depends on which service you choose. Some credit programs focus more on counseling and helping you make better financial choices (which may include a consolidation loan), while others work with you to get a personal loan to pay off your credit card debts.

Are there alternatives to credit card consolidation?

Yes. You could try negotiating with the credit card companies to lower your interest rate, reduce your monthly minimum payment, borrow money from family or friends, or get a side job to bring in extra cash to pay down your debt. However, if you're struggling, you probably have tried all of these things already and haven't had much success. Credit card consolidation can simplify your finances and allow you to obtain a better financial position.

Will using a credit card consolidation service improve my credit history?

It's likely that you'll see an improvement in your credit score after you go through the process of credit card consolidation. Your credit utilization should drop, and having a single monthly payment (instead of multiple credit card payments) should help you be on-time - both of which will boost your score.

How much will a credit card consolidation plan cost?

That depends on the provider you select and their strategy for consolidating your credit cards. Many counseling services are completely free, while others may charge a fee to work with you. If you use a loan to consolidate your credit card debts, you can expect interest fees and possibly origination fees to process the paperwork. Read all of the terms closely before signing an agreement, so that there are no surprises.

Is there a satisfaction guarantee?

Not exactly. If you're using a personal loan to consolidate your credit card debt, you really can't "get your money back" after you've accepted the loan. Be sure that you understand the terms and conditions of any loan you're considering before you sign on the dotted line. On the other hand, if you're looking at counseling services that are fee-based, some of them offer a refund policy for clients who aren't 100% satisfied with their services.

Is credit card consolidation legitimate?

Definitely. Credit card consolidation is actually one of the most common reasons that thousands of Americans take out personal loans every year. Just remember that whether or not it works well for you will depend on the type of service you select (like counseling vs. a loan) and how well you follow its requirements (like using loan funds to pay off your credit cards instead of buying something you don't need!). No matter which route you choose, it's a good idea to see if the provider has a strong reputation with consumers and the Better Business Bureau, to boost your confidence that the credit card consolidation program is well-established and reputable.

Best Credit Card Consolidation Programs for November 2025

Item: The Best Credit Card Consolidation Programs - Summary Reviews
Rating: 5
Author: Top Consumer Reviews

Monday, November 10th We evaluate products and services based on unbiased research. Top Consumer Reviews may earn money when you click on a link. Learn more about our process.

2025 Credit Card Consolidation Program Reviews

Which Credit Card Consolidation Companies Are the Best? Credit card consolidation can be a lifesaver for anyone juggling multiple credit card debts, like younger adults who may have made some missteps as they began to navigate their financial responsibilities or single parents who got in over their heads trying to make ends meet.

5.0

EXCELLENT

Best Option

National Debt Relief

Free initial consultation
Fees based on amount of money saved
Should owe at least $7,500

Read Full Review

EXCELLENT

5.0

On the National Debt Relief website

Consider National Debt Relief as your top choice for credit card consolidation. NDR's certified debt counselors provide a free consultation to assess your situation and discuss available options without pressure to enroll. Once you do sign up, your assigned team works diligently to negotiate settlements with your credit card companies, aiming to reduce or eliminate what you owe within 24 to 48 months. This is a results-based approach where you only pay fees once settlements with creditors are successfully negotiated. Backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee, an "A+" rating from the BBB, and over 33,000 five-star reviews, National Debt Relief continues to earn our strongest recommendation for anyone seeking relief from overwhelming credit card debt.

4.5

GREAT

Great

Curadebt

Credit card consolidation through negotiating with creditors
Free initial consultation
Minimum credit card debt of $5,000 required

Read Full Review

GREAT

4.5

On the Curadebt website

If you're considering credit card consolidation but uncertain about your options, consider reaching out to CuraDebt. Specializing in negotiating with creditors to achieve significant reductions in outstanding credit card balances and other debts, CuraDebt offers cost-effective solutions, with fees typically totaling 20% or less of the total enrolled debt. While not available in every state, CuraDebt offers accessible services through a complimentary consultation, and you can rely on the company's dedication to client success and satisfaction (as demonstrated by the actual settlement letters they publish to their website). If you're facing challenges in repaying your credit cards or other debts, CuraDebt is an excellent place to get help.

4.3

GREAT

Great

Happy Money

Specializes in credit card consolidation loans
Loan amounts from $5,000 to $40,000
Competitive interest rates

Read Full Review

GREAT

4.3

On the Happy Money website

Happy Money is an excellent choice for a credit card consolidation loan. With competitive interest rates, you're almost sure to save a ton on what you're currently paying on your credit cards. And, if self-control isn't your strong suit, Happy Money can send your loan proceeds directly to your card issuers, though you can still opt to have the money deposited to your bank. This company makes it beyond easy to consolidate your credit card debt and get back on top of your finances, earning a high rating and our highest recommendation for consolidation loans.

4.0

VERY GOOD

Very Good

SoFi^®

Credit card consolidation through a loan
Competitive APRs (with AutoPay discount)
Loans available from $5,000 to $100,000

Read Full Review

VERY GOOD

4.0

On the SoFi^® website

If you're looking to consolidate credit card debt, SoFi offers loan amounts from $5,000 to $100,000 with decent APRs. Their flexible repayment terms and expedited funding process provide perks you might not get elsewhere. SoFi also incentivizes borrowers with APR reductions for autopay enrollment and direct deposit setup. With a commitment to customer satisfaction reflected in their reputation, including an "A+" rating from the BBB and thousands of five-star ratings, SoFi is a lender worth considering for your credit card consolidation loan.

3.9

VERY GOOD

Very Good

SuperMoney

Credit card consolidation through loans
Loan referral platform
Transparent about their partners

Read Full Review

VERY GOOD

3.9

On the SuperMoney website

SuperMoney is a great resource if you'd like to shop around for a credit card consolidation loan, connecting you with multiple lenders (without the resulting flood of unwanted messages from third-party marketing companies you might experience when you use a rival referral service). In the last 10+ years, SuperMoney has worked with over $10 billion in loan requests, and they've received lots of 5-star reviews from people who were happy with the process here from start to finish. Give SuperMoney a try if you want to see which lenders might offer you the best rates and terms for your credit card consolidation loan.

3.8

VERY GOOD

Very Good

Credit.org

Get credit card consolidation help from a certified financial counselor
Non-profit organization
Many services are free

Read Full Review

VERY GOOD

3.8

On the Credit.org website

Established in 1974, Credit.org has earned its reputation as a trusted authority in financial education and debt solutions. Acknowledged by respected organizations such as HUD and NFCC, Credit.org provides a comprehensive array of services, the majority of which are offered at no cost. These services encompass debt counseling, credit improvement strategies - including credit card consolidation through a Debt Management Plan when necessary - and budgeting assistance. While nominal fees may apply, Credit.org prioritizes transparency and affordability to ensure exceptional value for its clients. With an impeccable reputation, "A+" BBB rating, and unwavering commitment to client privacy, Credit.org stands as a reliable partner for individuals seeking to consolidate credit card debt and attain financial stability.

3.5

GOOD

Good

LendingTree

Credit card consolidation through a loan
Loans available up to $50,000
Referral service connects you with up to five lending partners

Read Full Review

GOOD

3.5

On the LendingTree website

If a credit card consolidation loan is what you're after, LendingTree makes it easy to compare your options with multiple financial institutions with just one simple inquiry. You'll find plenty of details on each lender here, including unfiltered reviews from people who've borrowed from them in the past. Your rates and terms will depend on the loan you select, but you'll have the chance to get offers from smaller banks and credit unions who'd like to earn your business. The BBB gives LendingTree an "A+", but reports of inboxes and mailboxes deluged with spam (sometimes from unrelated, third-party marketers) ding LendingTree's rating here a little. Still, LendingTree is a great resource for researching lenders and comparing loan offers for credit card consolidation.

3.4

GOOD

Good

Reach Financial

Credit card consolidation through a loan
Loan amounts range from $3,500 to $40,000
Interest rates are competitive

Read Full Review

GOOD

3.4

On the Reach Financial website

Reach Financial specializes in credit card consolidation loans. Backed by FinWise Bank in Utah, loans here range from $3,500 to $40,000, with terms spanning 24-60 months and competitive APRs. Perks include being able to choose the monthly repayment date and free monthly credit score updates. The BBB gives Reach Financial an "A+" grade, and the lender has gotten hundreds of 5-star reviews from consumers. But, compared with some of the options on our list, the rates here aren't the most competitive. Reach Financial gets a better-than-average score of from us, but be sure to check out the options that rank a little higher too.

Continued from above...

Which Credit Card Consolidation Companies Are the Best?

Credit card consolidation can be a lifesaver for anyone juggling multiple credit card debts, like younger adults who may have made some missteps as they began to navigate their financial responsibilities or single parents who got in over their heads trying to make ends meet.

But what is credit card consolidation, and how does it work? Essentially, it's a way to streamline what you owe on various cards by combining your debt into a single loan payment, typically at a lower interest rate. In other words, you use that loan to pay off all of your cards, leaving you just with the new loan payment. Another option is to work with a service that will negotiate with the credit card companies on your behalf, getting the issuers to agree to a lower repayment amount to close out what you owe. Sounds pretty great, right? It can be, but here are some things you should know.

First, let's talk about the benefits. One of the biggest advantages of credit card consolidation is simplification. Instead of keeping track of multiple due dates, interest rates, and payment amounts, you have just one monthly payment to manage. This can make budgeting easier and reduce the risk of missing payments or incurring late fees. Additionally, consolidation can often result in a lower overall interest rate, which means you'll pay less in interest over time and potentially pay off your debt more quickly.

Now, onto the downsides. Consolidating your credit card debt doesn't magically make it disappear. You're still responsible for either paying off the new loan or for making payments into an account that the negotiating service will use to make offers to your credit card companies. And, depending on the terms of your consolidation, you could end up paying more in the long run if the repayment period is extended or the interest rate isn't significantly lower. There's also the risk that if you don't address the underlying spending habits or financial issues that led to your credit card crunch in the first place, you could end up accumulating more debt in the future.

But, let's say you've done your homework and you're sure that credit card consolidation is the way to go. For many people today, it's absolutely the right answer. Here are five things to keep in mind as you compare your options:

Interest rates and/or service fees. Look for providers that offer competitive interest rates and minimal fees. Compare the APR (Annual Percentage Rate) offered by each provider, as well as any origination fees, service fees, or prepayment penalties.
Repayment terms. Pay attention to the repayment terms offered by each lender or service. Consider factors such as the length of the repayment period, whether the interest rate is fixed or variable, and whether there are any options for early repayment or penalty-free early payoff. If you're having someone negotiate on your behalf, how long will you need to make payments into the deposit account before your credit card accounts are settled in full?
Impact on credit score. Understand how consolidating your credit card debt may impact your credit score. In some cases, consolidation can have a positive effect by reducing your credit utilization ratio and making it easier to manage your payments. However, if you close your existing credit card accounts or miss payments on your consolidation loan (or on your credit cards while you're funding your negotiation account), it could have a negative impact on your credit score.
Credibility and reputation. Research the reputation and credibility of each credit card consolidation service/lender. Look for reviews from other people in situations similar to yours, check the provider's accreditation with organizations like the Better Business Bureau, and see how long they've been in operation.
Customer support and resources. Consider the level of customer support and educational resources offered by each provider. Are they available to answer your questions and address your concerns? Do they offer tools or resources to help you manage your debt more effectively in the future?

By carefully evaluating these criteria, and by considering the research from our experts here at Top Consumer Reviews, you can choose the credit card consolidation option that best fits your needs and helps you take control of your debt. Remember, consolidation is just one tool in your financial toolkit, and it's important to continue practicing responsible spending habits and budgeting to avoid falling back into debt in the future.