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The Best Debt Relief Companies

Who Provides the Best Debt Relief?

It's safe to say that, in today's economy, Americans are drowning in debt. From credit cards (a $6,000 balance per household, on average) to mortgages, from student loans to car payments, even unpaid income taxes and beyond, we're all feeling the pinch of inflation, the ongoing after-effects of the pandemic, and a myriad of other stresses on our wallets.

Fortunately, there's a solution. Debt relief programs can be a valuable resource for individuals struggling with overwhelming debt, providing a structured pathway to regain financial stability. Whether you're dealing with job loss, unexpected medical expenses, or simply overspending (we've all been there!), debt relief is out there.

Thursday, March 20th

2025 Debt Relief Company Reviews

Top Consumer Reviews Best-In-Class Blue Ribbon Award National Debt Relief Review 5 Star Rating

National Debt Relief

5 Star Rating
  • Debt relief through negotiating with creditors
  • Free initial consultation
  • Can help you with most types of unsecured debt, including credit cards, personal loans, lines of credit, medical bills, collections, repossessions, business debts, and some student debts
  • Fees based on amount of debt enrolled, nothing due upfront
  • Must owe at least $7,500, be several months behind on payments, and be facing a financial crisis (job loss, unexpected medical bills, death of a spouse)
  • Average savings of 46%, or 25% after NDR fees
  • Plans typically range from 24-48 months
  • "A+” rated and accredited by the BBB
  • Over 33,000 5-star reviews
  • In business since 2009
  • 100% satisfaction guarantee
Top Consumer Reviews Best-In-Class Blue Ribbon Award

For almost 20 years, National Debt Relief has worked tirelessly to help clients get back on their feet financially. If you're struggling with almost any kind of unsecured debt, from credit cards and personal loans to collections, business debt, and beyond, there is relief here for you. And, right off the bat, you should know that NDR uses a results-based model to do business: you're only charged a fee when they've negotiated a settlement with one of your creditors and you give your approval for the arrangement.

Basic eligibility criteria to enroll

Let's take a look at how National Debt Relief works, starting with the eligibility criteria. First, your unsecured debt total will need to be at least $7,500. Next, you should be a few months behind on your payments. Finally, you should be able to demonstrate that you're currently experiencing some kind of financial crisis, like the loss of a job or the death of the primary income-earner in the household. Why? National Debt Relief's primary strategy to help you is debt negotiation, and they need to convince your creditors that it's going to be smarter for them financially to accept a smaller payment, rather than setting the collection agencies on you and potentially getting nothing.

Funds remain in your name

Wondering where the money comes from to pay even that reduced amount? Those funds will come from you over time. You'll make regular deposits into an account that National Debt Relief establishes in your name: it's FDIC-insured and remains fully in your control. You'll want to build up that account as much as you can, so that NDR can get to work negotiating settlements on your behalf, and they need something to work with. (In other words, they can't offer to settle for $1,500 if you only have $200 set aside.) But, nothing will be disbursed from that account until you approve a specific negotiated settlement.

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Only pay fees when you accept a settlement

Once you've made the first payment towards an agreed-upon settlement amount, National Debt Relief will charge a fee from that same account, usually between 15%-25% of the total debt that was enrolled. Given that they typically save clients 45% on the original debt amount, you're still saving quite a bit of money.

Can negotiate many types of debt

One big plus for National Debt Relief is the variety of creditors they're willing to negotiate with. While the bulk of their work is with credit card providers and lenders offering personal loans, you can also enroll veterinarian bills over $500, back rent (as long as it's not where you're currently living), timeshares on which you've stopped making payments, and more.

Check out the compelling client stories

If you're wondering how National Debt Relief might work for someone in your situation, you may find someone similar in their published client stories. For instance, Angelic B. is a singer with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra who had $43,144 in total debt. With a monthly payment of $813 and a program length of 44 months, she saved a total of $11,000 on her debt amount: a 27% savings (and NDR even shows you Angelic's bank statement to prove it). Or how about Lindsay, a single working mom who paid $506 for 14 months and wound up saving $9,398 overall? When you look at what each of those clients would have paid if they'd relied on making minimum credit card payments alone, you'll soon see why working with National Debt Relief just makes sense.

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33,000 5-star ratings and counting

Fortunately, NDR is justified in tooting its own horn, so to speak. The Better Business Bureau gives this debt relief service an "A+” rating and accreditation; most of the 100-ish complaints filed are regarding calls and messages after people submitted an initial inquiry, but all of those got a prompt, friendly response from National Debt Relief. And how could 33,000+ 5-star ratings on Trustpilot lead you astray? While some debt relief services' compliments only seem to come from people who had an initial consultation and thought it was a good conversation, NDR receives lots of enthusiastic reviews from clients who have been on a plan for a while and can speak to the effective, trustworthy nature of the debt settlement process here.

Best option for debt relief

Why settle for just combining your debts with a loan, which could mean paying for a longer time? Instead, National Debt Relief offers you the chance to really lower or even get rid of your debts completely. If you like the idea of saving money in the long run and getting out of a tough debt situation, National Debt Relief is the way to go. They've helped lots of people in similar situations, and their experts are great at getting your monthly payments lowered. This is still our #1 choice for sorting out your debt through smart negotiation on your behalf.

TurboDebt Review 4.5 Star Rating

TurboDebt

4.5 Star Rating
  • Free initial consultation
  • Connects you with other debt consolidation partners
  • In business since 2020
  • Thousands of five-star reviews
  • "A-" rating from the BBB

TurboDebt is one of the newest options on our list of debt consolidation options. Opening its doors in 2020, they're the fastest-growing debt relief company we found, with over $15 billion in settled debt and over 500,000 enrolled clients nationwide.

Partner with major players

The first thing you need to understand about TurboDebt is that they're not a debt consolidation company in the traditional sense. Instead of offering you a debt relief program that they've developed in house, they partner with major debt consolidation companies who specialize in those programs. With a variety of companies and programs in their arsenal, they can refer you to the right company and program that makes the most sense for your particular financial needs.

Getting started is easy

Getting started with TurboDebt is easy. Simply use the slider on the page to show how much debt you currently have, and press Continue. The next page will ask whether you're currently paying on your debt. Depending on these answers, you also may be asked whether you have any unpaid taxes or unfiled tax returns. At this point TurboDebt determines whether you might quality for debt relief. If so, enter your contact information and they'll reach out for your free initial consultation.

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Free consultation

When TurboDebt contacts you, they'll want to know your unique financial situation. Their credit counselors are friendly, and they walk you through a number of simple questions. How much debt do you have? What types of debt does it include? Are you current on your payments? What is your income? All of these factors help them identify the right partner and program that can best meet your needs.

Types of debt

There are essentially 2 kinds of debt people can have: secured debt vs unsecured debt.

  • Secured debt is the kind of debt that is associated with an asset of some kind. For example, a car loan is specifically for a car, and a house loan is specifically for a home. In those cases, if you fall behind on payments, your car or home may be repossessed.
  • Unsecured debt, on the other hand, is not tied to any one particular asset. Credit cards are a great example of unsecured debt - you use your credit card for many different kinds of purchases. Other forms of unsecured debt include personal loans, business loans, or medical debt. If you fall behind on these payments, there's nothing for a creditor to repossess.

Thinking bankruptcy? Think again.

Sometimes, desperate people think bankruptcy could be a solution to their financial situation. TurboDebt does not provide bankruptcy services, although they may be able to recommend a local bankruptcy attorney in your area. But that should really be your last resort. For example, in bankruptcy you may be required to sell many of your assets to pay off your creditors. You'll take a big hit on your credit score, and your bankruptcy can follow you for up to 10 years - making it hard to get a house, a car, or even a job. You also may be required to meet with the people you owe money to, and live under a court-ordered budget for up to 5 years. And that's just for starters. Compared to this, a program where you could be debt-free at the end is absolutely worth pursuing.

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Approximate savings

How much can you save with TurboDebt? That's a great question, and is different for every person. If you're able to stay with the program and get all of your debt settled, TurboDebt claims a savings of 46% before fees (or a net savings of 25% once their fees are factored in). Many of their clients become debt-free in 24-48 months. Of course, your specific savings and timeframe will vary based on your financial situation; the TurboDebt credit counselor you talk to should be able to help with an accurate assessment.

Positive customer reviews

One of the best things we like about TurboDebt is their customer satisfaction. First off, in a relatively short time they've earned an impressive A- rating from the BBB. Secondly, they have a 4.9 rating on Trustpilot with over 7,500 5-star reviews, and a 4.8 rating with over 2,000 reviews on their Google business page. That may be why they're the fastest growing debt relief service today. Finally, the customer comments we've seen about their service are very positive. From fee transparency and friendly credit counselors, to positive experiences - such as one customer who went from being $84,000 in credit card debt to being debt free in just 8 months - people have a lot of good things to say about TurboDebt.

High rating

Although they're a relative new player in this space, TurboDebt has a lot of good things going for it. Their website is intuitive and easy to use. In less than a minute you can step through their questions to determine whether you're eligible for debt relief. Their initial call is free, and their credit counselors are knowledgeable and friendly while they get to know you and your financial needs. They have a strong reputation with the BBB, and thousands of customers who praise their service. If you're looking for help with your debt situation, TurboDebt stands ready to help and they receive one of our highest ratings.

Curadebt Review 4.5 Star Rating

Curadebt

4.5 Star Rating
  • Debt relief through negotiation with creditors
  • Free initial consultation
  • Can provide help with debts that include credit cards, personal loans, medical bills, collections and repossessions, business debts, IRS debt and back taxes
  • Minimum debt of $5,000 required
  • Fees only paid as debts are settled, typically no more than 20% of enrolled debt
  • No monthly fees
  • "A+” rated by the BBB
  • Available in many (but not all) states
  • In operation since 2000

CuraDebt takes a personalized approach to providing debt relief, having operated across the nation since 2000. They excel in negotiating directly with creditors to achieve significant savings for their clients, often amounting to 40 to 60 percent of the total debt. Unlike certain debt relief options that focus solely on credit card debt, CuraDebt offers assistance with various types of debt, including not just credit cards but also personal loans, medical bills, collections and repossessions, business debts, IRS debt, and back taxes, among others.

Negotiates lower payments to your creditors

Forget everything you thought you knew about debt relief - CuraDebt is here to revolutionize the game. Unlike other programs that simply offer loans, CuraDebt operates as a trusted law firm. Here's how it works: instead of juggling multiple monthly payments to different creditors, CuraDebt crafts a tailor-made plan just for you. You'll deposit a portion of your funds into a dedicated account, which builds up over time. Then, armed with these funds, CuraDebt steps in to negotiate directly with your creditors on your behalf. Their goal? To slash your debt burden by a significant margin. Imagine owing $800 to Citibank but being able to approve a settlement of just $300 - thanks to CuraDebt's savvy negotiation skills.

You're kept in the loop

Throughout the process, you're kept in the loop with regular updates on negotiation offers, empowering you to make informed choices about your journey to financial freedom. Once a settlement is reached, CuraDebt promptly disburses the funds to your creditor, streamlining your repayment process and taking the stress out of managing payments. With CuraDebt, you can wave goodbye to the hassle of traditional loan payments - trust us, you're in good hands.

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Will help rebuild your good credit

CuraDebt's approach to debt relief is designed to address outstanding debts while minimizing the impact on your credit score. Recognizing the potential harm that delinquency or even filing bankruptcy can have on your creditworthiness, CuraDebt prioritizes resolving debt concerns before focusing on improving your credit score. Each settled account is updated accordingly on your credit reports, reflecting progress made. Upon completing the program, you'll have the opportunity to participate in a credit restoration program funded by CuraDebt for 3-6 months. This program aims to enhance your credit profile, with CuraDebt's expertise in maximizing your credit restoration efforts. As you start to show more responsible choices financially and keep up your creditworthiness, you can gradually regain access to even greater borrowing power.

Lowest fees, guaranteed

Of course, nothing in this world is free, and that goes for debt relief programs too. You'll find out the specifics of your CuraDebt plan before you commit to the service, but expect a ballpark of 20% of your enrolled debt amount as a client fee. On the upside, CuraDebt offers a guarantee that their fees are the lowest among debt relief services, and there are no upfront costs or monthly service fees in what you'll pay.

Some states aren't in the service area

Downside? CuraDebt isn't offered for debt relief in all 50 states, and they don't come right out and say who's eligible and who's not. We did a bit of poking around, and we're pretty confident that unless you live in CT, HI, ID, KS, LA, ME, NH, NV, OR, SC, TN, UT, VT, or WV, you'll qualify to be a CuraDebt client.

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Solid reputation

CuraDebt maintains an impressive "A+" rating from the Better Business Bureau, a testament to their commitment to excellence. Over the past three years, they've received just 10 complaints at the BBB - a reassuringly low number. Furthermore, when we looked beyond the BBB at third-party sources like Trustpilot, we found hundreds of glowing reviews from CuraDebt's satisfied clients, with the majority awarding 4 or 5 stars.

CuraDebt gets results you can see

But, we love that CuraDebt lets you see for yourself exactly how successful they've been with getting results for their clients. Look under the Results tab to see actual letters of debt relief via settlement. For example, in one recent year, one client only paid $4,570.49 on a total balance of $13,058.56 with Citibank (65% savings), another saved 73% on a balance of $6,464.11 with Chase Bank, and a third saved a whopping 85% on a $5,796.39 balance with SunTrust. Can it get any clearer than that?

Excellent choice for debt relief via negotiation

With CuraDebt, you can finally take control of your growing debts and put them behind you for good. What sets this debt relief option apart is that you're not just shifting your debt around with a lower-interest loan - you're actually saving on the total amount you owe. It's always a good idea to save money both now and over the long run, and CuraDebt is here to make that happen for you. That's why we give CuraDebt one of our highest recommendations.

Upstart Review 4.5 Star Rating

Upstart

4.5 Star Rating
  • Debt relief through loans
  • Borrow between $1,000 and $50,000
  • Factors in more than just your credit score to determine eligibility
  • Connects you to a vast network of over 100 banks and credit unions
  • Most loans funded within 24 hours
  • Available in 48 states (excluding Iowa and West Virginia)
  • "A+” rated and accredited by the BBB
  • Over 40,000 five-star reviews from clients

Are you tired of feeling like just a number to financial institutions? Ever wished someone would look beyond your credit score and acknowledge your potential for managing debt responsibly? Well, say hello to Upstart: your go-to platform for debt relief through personal loans.

Extensive network of lenders

Founded by former Google employees, Upstart redefines lending by taking into account a number of innovative factors. Your educational background, field of study, and work history are combine with other information to match you with lending partners from its extensive network of banks and credit unions. Upstart has worked with over 2.9 million satisfied customers with a whopping $34 billion in loans facilitated through its platform.

Use a loan to consolidate your debt

When it comes to debt relief, Upstart accomplishes that via loans ranging from $1,000 to $50,000. Whether you're looking to pay off credit card bills, medical expenses, or other outstanding loans, Upstart has you covered. And with loan terms ranging from 3-5 years (as of the date of this review), you can breathe easy knowing you're getting a competitive deal. Just be sure to review any origination fees, which can vary based on state regulations.

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Eligibility requirements to be aware of

Now, let's talk about eligibility. While Upstart keeps it simple, there are a few requirements to keep in mind. You'll need a minimum FICO or Vantage score of 580 (or 620 in select states), along with a steady income of at least $12,000 per year. Additionally, you must maintain a US-based bank account and demonstrate stable employment or a reliable income source. As long as you meet these criteria and live in one of the 48 states served by Upstart (sorry, Iowa and West Virginia!), you're good to go.

Get loan offers from multiple lenders

The application process with Upstart is as effortless as it gets. Simply provide your basic details like name, address, income, employment, and educational background, and you're on your way. With over 100 trusted banking partners in their network, Upstart ensures that you find the best possible loan options suited to your needs. Within minutes, you'll receive multiple loan offers to choose from. Once you've found the perfect match, funds can be deposited into your bank account as soon as the next business day - just make sure you then use those loan proceeds to pay off your creditors. There's no option here to have the funds sent directly to your credit card company or other place you have debt, so it's on you to be responsible with that money.

Top pick if you want to use a loan for debt relief

With an "A+" BBB rating and accreditation, Upstart has earned the trust of over 40,000 clients who rave about its fast funding process and user-friendly interface. While a few negative reviews exist, they often stem from borrowers misunderstanding their loan terms - a good reminder to always read the fine print. But overall, the consensus is clear: Upstart is a top choice for debt relief through personal loans.

SoFi<sup>®</sup> Review 4 Star Rating

SoFi®

4 Star Rating
  • Debt relief through personal loans
  • Loans available from $5,000 to $100,000
  • Rates may include origination fees of up to 7%
  • Flexible repayment terms spanning from 2 to 7 years
  • Most loans funded same or next day
  • Available in all states except Mississippi
  • Live customer support 7 days a week
  • "A+” BBB rating
  • Thousands of 5-star ratings from happy clients

Looking to lift the weight of debt off your shoulders? SoFi, short for Social Finance, offers a pathway to financial relief through its array of personal loan options.

Started with Student Loan Financing

Founded in 2011 by Mike Cagney, Dan Macklin, James Finnigan, and Ian Brady, SoFi initially focused on student loan refinancing. They later expanded their services to include personal loans, mortgages, and investment opportunities. With over 2 million members and an impressive $50 billion in funded loans, SoFi stands as a titan in the fintech arena.

Relatively competitive rates and terms

When it comes to debt relief, SoFi offers personal loans ranging from $5,000 to $100,000 as a viable solution for consolidating what you owe. With repayment terms spanning from 2 to 7 years, SoFi offers flexibility tailored to your financial needs. Plus, with quick funding, you can expect your loan to be processed either the same day or next day, so that you can use the loan proceeds to pay down higher-interest debt (assuming your new SoFi personal loan has a lower APR than what you're currently paying, of course). However, even though we saw that SoFi's primary advertising on their loans proudly states that they don't charge origination fees, the fine print at the bottom mentioned fees of up to 7%. You'll want to pay close attention to the terms of your debt relief loan here, before you sign on the dotted line.

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APR discounts available

SoFi also rewards responsible borrowers with enticing perks. Enroll in autopay and enjoy a 0.25% APR discount, and opt for direct deposit to your SoFi account for an additional half-percentage point off your interest rate. These small savings can add up over time, offering tangible benefits to your financial well-being and helping you chip away at your debt a little faster.

Clients offer praise

Backed by an "A+" rating from the Better Business Bureau and over 7,000 five-star ratings on Trustpilot, SoFi has earned the trust of thousands of borrowers. While occasional complaints arise, SoFi's attentive customer service team makes sure that issues are quickly handled, cementing their reputation as a lender committed to customer satisfaction.

Worth considering as a consolidation option

In the realm of debt relief, SoFi's loans emerge as a compelling option, offering convenience and flexibility. While you may not get the absolute best rates and terms here, SoFi's dedication to innovation and customer-centric approach make them a choice worth considering. If you're in search of a way to get debt relief by consolidating what you owe, SoFi is a good choice.

LendingClub Review 4 Star Rating

LendingClub

4 Star Rating
  • Debt relief via personal loans
  • Funds can be sent directly to creditors or to your personal bank account
  • Borrow up to $40,000
  • Terms of 2-5 years
  • No prepayment penalties
  • Origination fees of 3-8%
  • Available to residents of all states + DC
  • Funded $90B+ in loans for over 4 million members since 2007
  • "A+” rated and accredited by the BBB
  • Tens of thousands of 5-star reviews

Back in 2007, LendingClub entered the financial industry with a novel concept: use peer-to-peer lending to benefit everyday investors and borrowers alike. Although the company has moved away from that investment model and now serves as a more traditional banking institution, there's been no loss in popularity: over 4 million clients have accessed $90+ billion in funding through LendingClub.

Offers loans to pay off higher-interest debt

As you might guess, this institution approaches debt relief through personal loans. You can borrow anywhere from $1,000 to $40,000, with terms spanning 2-5 years and no prepayment penalties. Just be aware that their rates include origination fees of 3-8% that will be taken from the proceeds of your loan. That means that if you need $20,000 to pay off a particular debt, your loan amount will need to be higher to account for the fees, so that you still wind up with that $20K.

Can pay your creditors directly

While you won't get any credit counseling with this particular debt relief option, LendingClub does make it a little easier to use your loan to pay off your creditors: unlike some institutions that provide personal loans to consolidate debt but leave the actual transfer of the funds up to you (which may not be a good idea if you're tempted to use the money for some other purpose!), LendingClub offers to send your loan funds to the creditor(s) you designate in the loan process. It's not required, and you can still get all of the loan proceeds deposited to your bank account instead, but we appreciate that extra layer of help for people seeking debt relief.

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Available nationwide

It's easy to find out if you'll qualify for a debt relief personal loan through LendingClub. These loans are available to residents of all 50 states and Washington DC, so there's no residency requirement. Once you click on "Check Your Rate”, you'll enter the basic details that allow LendingClub to verify your identity, perform a soft pull on your credit, and make a preliminary loan offer: name, email address, street address, phone number, annual pre-tax income, desired monthly payment amount, and so on.

Get matched with several loan options

Once LendingClub has been able to confirm who you are (they won't even ask for your SSN unless they can't locate your credit profile with your name/phone/DOB/address details), you'll be able to see any loan offers that match your criteria. If you see a loan with terms that you like, you can continue on to the full application (which does involve a hard pull on your credit). Pay attention to the To-Do checklist in your dashboard: you'll be asked to submit documents to get your loan approved (like verification of income), and the quicker you get those done, the sooner the funds will be sent to your bank account or your creditors (or both).

Very positive feedback from clients

Customers are generous with their praise for LendingClub, as demonstrated by the impressive 5-star ratings left for the service by over 4,800 individuals on Trustpilot. Among these satisfied reviewers are loyal clients who have found significant value in LendingClub's straightforward loan solutions. They applaud the platform for its prompt loan processing, user-friendly application process, and competitive rates and terms when compared to other lenders.

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Commitment to excellence

Additionally, LendingClub's commitment to excellence is underscored by its pristine "A+" rating and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau. Emphasizing transparency, LendingClub openly shares all feedback on its own website, reflecting an admirable average rating of 4.83 out of 5 stars across more than 68,000 unfiltered and authentic reviews on its platform. As you browse those comments, you'll see that "debt consolidation/refinance” is one of the most popular reasons that people use LendingClub; many reviews come from people using LendingClub for the second, third, or even fourth time to get relief from their debt.

Good service for consolidating debt with a loan

While LendingClub doesn't offer a full suite of services for people seeking debt relief (like credit counseling or debt negotiation), they're a trustworthy option if you know that a loan is all it'll take to get you back on the right track. We give the lender props for knowing that not everyone is going to have the willpower to send the money to the creditors on their own, and thus making it easy to avoid temptation by having the loan proceeds go right where they need to. LendingClub has a fantastic reputation, and we'd say it's well above average when compared with similar options for debt relief loans.

Happy Money Review 4 Star Rating

Happy Money

4 Star Rating
  • Debt relief via personal loans
  • Loan amounts from $5,000 to $40,000
  • Origination fees of 1.5%-5.5%
  • Payback terms from 2-5 years
  • Loans geared towards consolidating credit card debt
  • Funds can be deposited to your bank account within 3-6 business days, or directly to your credit cards within 30 days
  • "A+” rated and accredited by the BBB
  • In business since 2009
  • Has helped over 300,000 individuals with $6 billion in personal loans

Recently rebranded from its original identity as Payoff, Happy Money has been helping people get out of high-interest debt since 2009. They work with well-known financial institutions like Alliant and Veridian to offer debt relief through personal loans. More than 300,000 clients have used Happy Money to tackle over $6 billion in debt.

Strong focus on credit card consolidation

You'll notice right off the bat that Happy Money's bread-and-butter is debt relief through credit card consolidation. The service is designed such that the vast majority of their clients have sought loans specifically for that purpose, to the point where they can even send your loan proceeds directly to your credit card companies (just in case you don't want to be worried about spending it in some non-debt-relief way). You're still able to borrow money here to tackle other kinds of debt, but you may see a few extra steps in the application process.

Loans start at $5K

There's a lower borrowing threshold with Happy Money than with some of its rivals. Loans here can go as low as $5,000 or as high as $40,000. You'll have a repayment term between 2-5 years, with interest rates likely better than what you're currently paying in credit card interest. Those APRs do include origination fees of 1.5-5.5%, so be sure you request a loan amount that will be enough to cover your debts and the fees that will be deducted from the proceeds before the money goes to your accounts.

A few eligibility requirements

How about eligibility? When you complete your initial inquiry, Happy Money will look at your overall DTI (debt-to-income ratio) and credit utilization. You'll also need to have a credit history that spans at least three years with no current delinquencies, and a credit score of 640+. They'll double-check all of that by using the information you provide in the 2-minute questionnaire. Pro tip: don't check the box to receive offers from "related companies” if you'd rather not get spam!

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Debts paid within a month

You'll then be shown several debt relief loan offers from the lending partners in the Happy Money network. When you choose the loan that's right for you, you'll complete the full application (which will involve a hard pull on your credit). Happy Money tells you to expect that your funds will deposit to your bank account in about 3-6 business days, or they'll show up as a credit on your credit card accounts within 30 days, depending on how you've designated your loan funds to be applied.

Maintains a good reputation

Reputation-wise, Happy Money is doing just fine. The Better Business Bureau gives the company an "A+” rating and accreditation, while client feedback on Trustpilot and in other places describes the overall experience here as positive and easy to manage. You may see some lower-than-average ratings too, but our research showed those to come from people in other countries who got scammed by individuals claiming to represent Happy Money (which, FYI, only does business within the US!).

Good way to consolidate credit card debt

If your main need for debt relief is related to high-interest credit cards, Happy Money's consolidation loans are a fantastic option. You'll definitely pay a lower interest rate compared with most credit cards, which will save you money in the long run. You'll also be at a lower risk for missing payments when you consolidate all of your different cards into a single loan (assuming you don't rack up new charges on your cards in the meanwhile!). Although there won't be any other debt relief strategies employed on your behalf here, like negotiation or credit counseling, Happy Money gives you a trustworthy, competitively-structured personal loan that can give you a fresh start on what you owe.

SuperMoney Review 3.5 Star Rating

SuperMoney

3.5 Star Rating
  • Debt relief through personal loans
  • Loan referral platform
  • Transparent about their partners
  • Excellent resource for evaluating loan providers
  • Plenty of reviews from other borrowers
  • Loans available from $500 to $100,000
  • Operating since 2013

With over a decade of experience, SuperMoney has connected thousands of individuals with trusted lenders, facilitating over $10 billion in financing requests. Through a series of well-vetted partners, SuperMoney connects you with personal loans you can use to consolidate your debt into a single, hopefully lower-interest, payment. That's the extent of the debt relief services here, but as far as loans go, this is a good choice to consider if you like that way of getting on top of what you owe.

Use a loan to pay off your existing debt

When it comes to debt relief, SuperMoney offers personal loans you can use to pay off your creditors. With loan amounts of up to $100,000, you have the flexibility to consolidate your debts effectively. Your credit score, overall debt amount, and employment status will all influence your rate and terms. Just remember to use the loan proceeds responsibly - this isn't a ticket to a shopping spree.

Can borrow as little as $500

One notable advantage of SuperMoney is its accessibility. While other services may require a minimum unsecured debt of $10,000, SuperMoney offers loans as low as $500. This means you can borrow only what you need to consolidate your debt, avoiding the risk of overextending yourself financially.

Transparent partner info, no sign-up required

You can also see at a glance what each of their lending partners brings to the table: it's not hidden behind a form or a requirement to give them your information first. For every possible debt relief partner, you'll know the possible loan amounts and APRs, the range of repayment terms, and whether or not it's been highly recommended (or criticized) by those who've taken the time to offer a rating on SuperMoney.

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They won't sell your info to third parties

Your privacy is paramount at SuperMoney. Unlike some competitors, they prioritize keeping your personal information safe. Your details are used solely to match you with suitable lenders, with no risk of being sold to third-party marketers. Say goodbye to a cluttered inbox filled with unwanted offers!

Lots of positive feedback

With over 400 positive reviews on Trustpilot, SuperMoney has earned praise for its user-friendly interface and seamless loan comparison process. Clients commend the platform for making it easy to access multiple loan offers with just one application, ensuring they get the funding they need without any hassle.

Great referral service

In summary, SuperMoney is a reliable option for finding debt relief, provided you qualify for a loan with one of their partners and then have the discipline to use the loan funds responsibly. With its intuitive interface, detailed lender insights, and unwavering commitment to privacy, SuperMoney is a welcome option in the financial services arena. While the terms of your loan will ultimately depend on your chosen lender and financial profile, SuperMoney serves as an ally in your quest for financial stability. With our rating we're demonstrating our confidence in SuperMoney's ability to empower you on your journey to debt relief.

LendingTree Review 3 Star Rating

LendingTree

3 Star Rating
  • Debt relief via personal loans
  • Loans available up to $50,000
  • Referral service connects you with up to five lending partners
  • Repayment terms range from 24 to 84+ months
  • Accredited with an "A+" rating by the Better Business Bureau
  • Operating for nearly 30 years

For more than 25 years, LendingTree has served Americans looking to comparison shop for various financial products: credit cards, small business loans, and so forth. They've created a broad network of vetted, trustworthy lending partners, allowing the average person to connect with lesser-known institutions who often offer much better rates and terms than the big names in finance.

Borrow up to $50,000

When it comes to debt relief, LendingTree isn't exactly a specialist. You won't get one-on-one counseling for how to manage your creditors, advice for budgeting, or any similar services. Instead, this platform offers debt relief via personal loans of up to $50,000. It's up to you to take the proceeds from the loan to pay off your creditors, but the good news is that you're not usually limited to where you can apply those funds. (In other words, if your Great-Aunt Martha loaned you money and that's one of the debts you need to pay off, you can do that!)

Enter the basics to confirm your identity

You'll find the overall process of getting a debt relief loan here to be uncomplicated and informative. Enter the amount you're hoping to borrow and how quickly you'd like to have the funds deposited, along with the usual info like your date of birth, the range in which your credit score falls, how much you earn per year, and so on. LendingTree will do a soft pull on your credit, only asking for the last four digits of your Social Security number if they can't verify your identity with the other information you provided.

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Lots of details about numerous lenders

From there, LendingTree will show you up to 5 matches for debt relief loans from partners in their network. We love how in-depth this service goes to tell you about each institution: even if you just use LendingTree to research lenders you connect with via other routes or referrals, you won't be wasting your time. You can see what other clients have said about each lender, get a sense of what to expect regarding rates and fees, and much more. Your credit will only be impacted if and when you choose not only a lender but also a specific loan, then move on to complete the full application with that lending institution.

Loan offers depend on your borrower profile

What can you anticipate for rates and terms? As you'd guess, that will solely depend on the lending partner whose debt relief loan you choose. All lenders on the LendingTree platform have their APRs capped at 35.99% (which is a lot higher than most of the debt you currently have, more than likely), so you'll have to submit your information to see in which ballpark your loan offers will land.

Good reputation over many years

We don't have any major concerns regarding LendingTree's reputation. The service has had an "A+” rating from the Better Business Bureau for a long time, and you'll see thousands of perfect scores on the ratings left by happy clients via Trustpilot as well.

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A few drawbacks

There are really only two downsides to using LendingTree. The first one is that your debt relief here only comes in the form of a personal loan, eliminating some of the guidance and hand-holding you'll see with some of the higher-ranked options on our list. The other drawback is that you could see a big uptick in the amount of spam you get, once LendingTree has your contact info: we've seen reports from more than a few people who weren't happy with how their inboxes exploded (email, text) after filling out the initial inquiry form here.

Good way to sort through loan options for debt relief

But, if you've decided that a personal loan is all the debt relief you need, and you've got the discipline to use the funds for that purpose, LendingTree is a solid option. You'll get full transparency regarding the lenders and the loan terms they offer, which should make for smooth sailing once you make your choice. LendingTree gets a "good enough” rating among debt relief options.

Accredited Debt Relief Review 2.5 Star Rating

Accredited Debt Relief

2.5 Star Rating
  • Offers debt relief via consolidation loans and debt settlement
  • Consolidation loans are offered through affiliate partners
  • Debt settlement programs save customers an average of 25% after fees
  • "A+” rated and accredited by the BBB
  • In business since 2011

Accredited Debt Relief is a part of the Beyond Finance family, offering customized solutions for clients' most pressing financial struggles. In business since 2011, this company has helped clients pay off over $1 billion in debt, ranging from credit cards and personal loans to medical bills and beyond.

Offers both loans and settlements for debt relief

This company presents itself as a one-stop-shop for debt relief. Whether you need a consolidation loan to bundle everything you owe into a single monthly payment or you're looking for someone to try and settle your debts for a lower amount, you'll have a full spectrum of services on offer with Accredited Debt Relief.

You may not qualify if you start with the online inquiry form

Your experience here starts with a free debt consultation. You can reach out to Accredited Debt Relief via phone or fill out the initial inquiry form online. That form will ask you how much you owe, your name, address, email address, and phone number; be aware, however, that they don't tell you that the purpose of these questions is to verify your identity, and if they can't do that with what you enter (or if you have a typo in any part of what you provide), you'll be told that you don't qualify and that you should reach out to one of the providers they list on that page. That left a not-so-great taste in our mouth and felt like it was just their way of getting some referral credit.

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You may be pressured to sign up for debt settlement plans

That's worth pointing out, because we have some concerns with a few other aspects of how this service provides debt relief. We found more than a few complaints that described how the representative on their consultation kept trying to push them towards a debt settlement arrangement, which included a recommendation to stop making payments to creditors. While that's not an unusual approach to debt relief, these particular prospective clients were sure that wasn't what they needed. But, when they tried to advocate for themselves, explaining that they were really looking for a consolidation loan instead, the Accredited Debt Relief rep seemed adamant that the caller should sign up for the debt settlement program. Given that such programs have the potential to result in damaged credit scores, increased collection efforts, and possible legal action, it's not encouraging to hear that some people are feeling pressured into them here.

Loans come from affiliate partners, settlement done in-house

Let's keep going. Accredited Debt Relief tells you a few things upfront, or at least in the fine print at the bottom of the site. They spell out that any consolidation loans will come via affiliate relationships, but they stop short of saying who those affiliates might be. (And that might be why those callers we mentioned were pushed towards what ADR provides on its own: namely, debt consolidation/settlement services.) Those partners offer loans from $1,000 to $100,000, including origination fees of 1%-6%. On the other hand, if you enroll your debt with their settlement service, you can expect to pay back "approximately” 55% of the debt you enroll, with fees that are "usually” 25%, and that program will last from 24-48 months.

May not be an option where you live

But, just like the last time we reviewed Accredited Debt Relief, their "services are not available in all states”. And, they still don't come out and say where, exactly, you have to live in order to qualify.

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No shortage of compliments

It's true that this company has quite a lot of positive feedback. The Better Business Bureau gives it an "A+” and accreditation, and all 50 complaints over the last year have gotten appropriate responses. There are also thousands of 5-star reviews on Trustpilot, singing the praises of specific representatives and gushing about how Accredited Debt Relief is going to lift the burden off their shoulders.

Almost no feedback from long-term clients

So why do we only give ADR a lower rating? Besides all of the iffy things we've already described, the fact that almost every single glowing review comes from a person who's just barely had a phone call caught our attention. What about the people that have worked with them as a client for a while now? Those are noticeably absent from the thousands of ratings on Trustpilot. Even the nearly 1,000 5-star reviews on the BBB all say the same thing: "the phone call was great and the person was really nice”. Unfortunately, "great” and "nice” aren't enough to demonstrate that, in the long run, clients are better off financially after getting help from Accredited Debt Relief.

Best as a last resort

If you do decide to go for that free consultation with ADR, we'd advise you to be very careful with the information you provide. You could wind up getting some pushy calls even after you say you're not interested. And, overall, there are other debt relief options with much more transparency about how they operate, so we recommend you look a little higher on our list before reaching out to Accredited Debt Relief.

Upstart Disclosure

(1) Your loan amount will be determined based on your credit, income, and certain other information provided in your loan application. Not all applicants will qualify for the full amount. Loans are not available in West Virginia or Iowa. The minimum loan amount in MA is $7,000. The minimum loan amount in Ohio is $6,000. The minimum loan amount in NM is $5100. The minimum loan amount in GA is $3,100.

(3) The full range of available rates varies by state. The average 5-year loan offered across all lenders using the Upstart platform will have an APR of 22.00% and 60 monthly payments of $25.03 per $1,000 borrowed. For example, the total cost of a $10,000 loan would be $15,018 including a $600 origination fee. APR is calculated based on 5-year rates offered in the last 1 month. There is no downpayment and no prepayment penalty. Your APR will be determined based on your credit, income, and certain other information provided in your loan application. Not all applicants will be approved.

(4) If you accept your loan by 5pm EST (not including weekends or holidays), you will receive your funds the next business day. Loans used to fund education related expenses are subject to a 3 business day wait period between loan acceptance and funding in accordance with federal law.

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Continued from above...

Let's consider some of the ways that debt relief programs can be structured, so that you'll have an idea of which one might be best suited for your particular situation. First up is debt consolidation. This involves combining multiple debts into a single, more manageable loan with lower interest rates. It simplifies payments and may reduce the overall interest paid. Consolidation is usually accomplished through a personal loan: interest rates may be on the higher side compared with other types of borrowing, but still lower than what you're likely paying on a typical credit card balance. This type of debt relief doesn't necessarily come with any hands-on help: you apply for the loan and use it to pay down your high-interest debt, but that's about it. It might not be the best fit if you need help restructuring your finances or want advice on how to not get in over your head again in the future.

Next, you may have the opportunity to enroll in a debt management plan, or DMP. Offered by credit counseling agencies, DMPs involve negotiating with creditors to lower interest rates or waive fees. Participants make consolidated payments to the agency, which then distributes them to creditors.

A similar debt relief strategy is debt settlement, which involves negotiating with creditors to settle debts for less than the full amount owed. While this can significantly reduce debt, it may negatively impact credit scores and involve tax implications. You can attempt to do this on your own, or you can work with a service that works on your behalf.

But, there are a few things to be aware of with debt relief. Unfortunately, the industry has its share of scams targeting vulnerable individuals. Be wary of companies promising quick fixes or asking for hefty upfront fees. Always research companies thoroughly and verify their credentials. Also, enrolling in certain debt relief programs may negatively affect your credit score initially, and debt settlement in particular can have both legal implications and tax consequences. You may need to get the input of a financial advisor or attorney to make sure you understand all of the possible ramifications before you commit.

But, don't let that scare you away from debt relief as a whole. The right program can get you on the road to financial recovery, and there are plenty of trustworthy ones out there too. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:

  • Consultation. Many debt relief companies offer free consultations to assess your financial situation and recommend suitable solutions. Take advantage of these consultations to ask questions and clarify any doubts.
  • Services offered. Which approach does the provider take to debt relief? Are you taking out a personal loan, getting step-by-step guidance and counseling, or having your outstanding debts negotiated on your behalf?
  • Fees. Some companies may hide fees in the fine print or charge exorbitant rates for their services. Before signing any agreements, ensure you understand all fees involved and compare them across different providers.
  • Reputation. Take the time to research various debt relief options, comparing their pros and cons, and look at the overall sentiment from previous and current clients. Look for reputable companies with positive reviews and accreditations from organizations like the Better Business Bureau.

Debt relief programs can provide a lifeline if you're drowning in debt, offering strategies to regain control of your finances. However, it's crucial to approach them with caution, thoroughly researching options, watching out for red flags, and selecting reputable providers. The experts at Top Consumer Reviews have evaluated and ranked some of the most well-known options out there today, to help you embark on the journey towards a debt-free future.

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Debt Relief Company FAQ

Debt relief is a process that helps people get out from under their ever-mounting financial obligations. This can be accomplished through Debt Negotiation, Debt Settlement, Debt Consolidation or Repayment Plans, among other strategies.
You'll need to have a certain amount of debt to be eligible for debt relief, which varies according to which relief service you choose. Some require a minimum unsecured debt of $7500, while others specify that you need to owe at least $10,000. Also, some debt relief providers aren't licensed in all 50 states - so you may be eligible for debt relief but the service you're considering isn't available in your state.
Believe it or not, many debt relief services are free! Most providers give you a no-cost consultation, analyzing your financial situation and making recommendations tailored to your needs. But, there are some fee-based services, especially if you want someone to negotiate with creditors on your behalf.
Many of the strategies used by debt relief providers can be done on your own, yes. But, in the amount of time it would take you to get up to speed and learn what those strategies are, you could be paying hundreds (or thousands!) of dollars in interest. It's almost always a smarter financial move to have the experts do the work for you.
The first step is usually the complimentary consultation, where a representative will go over your debt situation and find out your goals, needs and timeframe. From there, it will depend on which approach you decide to take - but, for the most part, the debt relief service will be in charge of contacting your creditors and working out the details for reducing what you owe.
No two consumers are alike - and debt relief strategies vary as well. Some services offer relief through a personal loan, allowing you to pay off high-interest debt with a lower-interest arrangement, so naturally your situation will change as soon as your loan is funded and used to reduce your monthly payments. On the other hand, if your service is negotiating with your creditors to reduce or eliminate what you owe, that can take several weeks to months.
Most of the time, there isn't. A few debt relief services offer a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee, allowing you to cancel your plan without fees or penalties. Read the fine print of any contract before you sign up, so you'll know exactly what's promised - and what isn't.
Debt relief may sound too good to be true, but it's a legal, well-known method for reducing the debt burden faced by many consumers. Although some fly-by-night services pop up from time to time, most companies offering debt relief have been in business for a decade or longer. You can always check for a company's listing with the Better Business Bureau for further confirmation that it's a trustworthy option for debt relief.

What to Do When You Find Yourself Deeply in Debt

If debt is mounting and you continually find yourself struggling every month, it may be time to seek debt relief. An important part of selecting the best way to eliminate your debt is to realize when it's time to ask for help. Debt consolidation and debt settlement programs are both very popular ways to help consumers get out of debt in a short period of time, but are they right for you? Neither of these programs are available for people who are simply tired of paying their bills, but they are available to those who are already late with payments, have bills in collections or have had a sudden change in their income.

There are a number of non-profit organizations currently offering debt management services, which include both debt consolidation and debt settlement. Some companies may offer both, while others may specialize in one or the other. In order to be eligible for either of these programs, you must be able to show that there is not sufficient income to pay your bills as they currently require. If this sounds like your situation, debt relief may be just a phone call away.

If you are receiving calls from your creditor's collections department, speak with them openly and honestly regarding your situation. Once you have signed up with a debt management company specializing in either debt consolidation or debt settlement, inform your creditor(s) of the name and telephone number of the company. In most cases, this will stop the collection calls while the creditor verifies the information that you provided. By explaining the fact that you are working with a company who will be submitting a proposal on your behalf, most creditors will accept this information as your good faith desire to repay your debts. As the telephone begins to stop ringing, you will gain some much needed relief from the stress associated with being constantly reminded of your financial woes.

When a debt management company sends your proposed new monthly payments, interest rates and/or debt settlement offers, the creditor(s) will either accept or deny the offer. Within weeks, you will be informed of their decision and will have the ability to call the debt management agency to remain updated with creditor's responses. After 1-3 months of consecutive payments made through a debt relief agency, most creditors will begin to list your account as current with credit reporting agencies.

It is recommended that consumers check their credit report periodically in order to maintain the accuracy of the content and to prevent them from being a victim of identity theft. Each year, you are entitled to receive a free copy of your credit report from each of the three credit reporting agencies, including Equifax, TransUnion and Experian. If you enroll in a debt consolidation or debt settlement program, it's a good idea to check your credit report prior to enrollment and then again after six months. When you compare the two timeframes, you will likely see a great improvement as creditors begin to receive their payments and update your credit reports accordingly. If any of the information is inaccurate, you can file a dispute with the credit reporting agency and get the corrected version updated in a short amount of time.

Dealing with debt is not an easy task. In fact, it can be a very exhausting experience. Once you have faced your finances and made an important step toward eliminating your debt, your life will begin to improve right along with your credit score.

What is Debt Consolidation?

"Drowning in debt? Give us a call today and we'll get those creditors off your back for good!"

We've all heard the claims from debt-consolidation companies. The catchy television and radio commercials - promising to remove debt and make the endless phone calls from creditors stop - can be enticing for those who truly are drowning in debt. Desperate people can and do fall for these pitches every day, and end up with worse financial troubles than those with which they started.

The Better Business Bureau warns consumers against debt consolidation companies which make the following claims:

  • The ability to remove all debt
  • Warns clients against communicating directly with creditors
  • Offers to pay down debt for an upfront fee from the client
  • Asks client to pay a percentage of the total amount of debt being eliminated
  • The ability to remove negative marks on a client's credit report
  • The ability to prevent bankruptcy

For every bogus debt consolidation company out there, a legitimate service exists that truly can help consumers who are overwhelmed with debt. But how do consumers tell the difference between a valid company and one that is just out to scam them?

To answer that question, a consumer must first understand what debt consolidation is and what it is not.

The way true debt consolidation is supposed to work is to take multiple sources of debt - such as from credit cards, mortgages, utilities and loans - and combines them into one manageable monthly payment. Properly combining debt can allow the consumer to still meet their financial obligations without draining their bank account each month.

True debt consolidation also should provide certain key benefits to clients who use a debt consolidation service.

One of the biggest benefits to debt consolidation is the reduction of interest rates on loans and credit cards. A big reason consumers get behind on payments and are unable to ever truly pay off debt is because they often are saddled with high interest rates. Even if they make the minimum payment each month, they may never realistically pay off the full amount due to compounding interest rates from month to month.

A quality debt consolidation service will make it a top priority to combine all debt and reduce the overall interest rate being applied to the monthly repayment process. If the company you have chosen does not offer this tactic, then they are not a company with which it is worth doing business.

Debt consolidators also should be able to combine all sources of debt into one monthly payment, and reduce or eliminate all late penalties and fees for their clients.

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