Amine is an entrepreneur, investor and financial writer that covers the US economy, inflation, alternative investments, cryptocurrencies and more. He has been involved in the space for over a decade.
Logo of New Era Debt Solutions (credit: neweradebtsolutions.com)
New Era Debt Solutions (https://neweradebtsolutions.com/) is a well-established, legitimate debt settlement company (NOT a credit counselor) that’s been helping people get out of debt since 1999, which makes it one of the oldest debt settlement providers in America. Based in Camarillo, California, they operate nationwide (EXCEPT Maine, Oregon, and Iowa), and specialize in negotiating with creditors to settle unsecured debts, like credit card debt, personal loans and others for less than what you owe.
Check if You Qualify First
Considering debt settlement? New Era offers a free consultation to help you assess whether their program fits your situation. No commitment required.
New Era Debt Solutions takes the #1 spot in our debt relief company rankings this year due to their combined score of 4.84/5 stars, at time of press, as you can see below. This objective score takes into account their ratings on multiple third-party review sites, like the BBB, Google Reviews, TrustPilot and others.
New Era Debt Solutions has a good profile on Google reviews
What Services Does New Era Debt Offer?
New Era primarily offers debt settlement services, meaning they work with your creditors to reduce the total amount you owe. This service is specifically for unsecured debt (like credit cards, medical bills, personal loans and certain other types of debt). Their service cannot help for things like mortgages or student loans.
New Era Debt aims to create a plan that helps you become debt-free in as little as 24 to 48 months. One of the standout aspects of New Era is that they don’t charge any upfront fees. You only pay them when they’ve successfully settled your debt and you have agreed with their plan.
New Era Debt vs Others
It’s important to note that New Era Debt Solutions is a debt settlement company, not a credit counseling nonprofit. Therefore, they don’t do Debt Management Plans (DMP’s) and instead they simply negotiate with your creditors to settle for a much lower debt. This means you will take a credit score hit, but much lesser than that of a bankruptcy’s. Their service is similar to companies like CuraDebt, TurboDebt, Accredited Debt Relief and others.
If you’re wondering how New Era Debt compares to other providers who may offer similar (but different) options on how to deal with your debt, see the table below:
Feature / Factor
New Era Debt Solutions
Family Credit Management (FCM)
Bankruptcy (Chapter 7)
Type of Program
Debt Settlement
Debt Management Plan (DMP)
Legal Debt Discharge
Typical Debt Reduction
30–60% of enrolled debt
Interest reduction only
Up to 100% (full discharge)
Upfront Fees
❌ None
✅ Usually $0–50 setup fee
✅ Court & lawyer fees (~$1,500–$2,000)
Ongoing Fees
14%–23% of enrolled debt (only if settled)
$25–$75/month (varies by state)
❌ None after filing
Impact on Credit Score
❌ Negative (missed payments + settlement)
⚠️ Neutral to slightly negative
❌ Severe (stays for 7–10 years)
Time to Completion
24–48 months
36–60 months
~6 months (Chapter 7)
Covered Debts
Unsecured (credit cards, personal loans)
Unsecured (credit cards, medical, etc.)
Most unsecured debts
Creditor Negotiation
✅ Negotiates balance reductions
✅ Negotiates lower interest rates
❌ No negotiation — legal discharge
Eligibility Requirements
Must have financial hardship
Verifiable income + willingness to pay
Must pass a means test
Credit Counseling Required?
❌ No
✅ Yes
✅ Yes (pre-filing requirement)
Legal Protection from Creditors?
❌ No (until settled)
❌ No (voluntary plan)
✅ Yes (automatic stay)
Best For…
Settling large unsecured debts without bankruptcy
Paying debts in full with lower interest
Wiping out debts with no repayment
NOTE: make sure you study all the options above to find the right method to tackle your debt. They all have their pros and cons, depending on your situation.
If you’re comparing debt relief options and want to understand how settlement might apply to your debt, you can use New Era’s free assessment tool to get a clearer picture.
In terms of reputation, New Era Debt Solutions has solid reviews across multiple platforms, as we covered earlier in the “company’s snapshot” section. They hold an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
On Trustpilot, they’ve received mostly positive reviews, with customers praising them for professionalism and their ability to reduce large amounts of debt. Like any company, there are a few negative reviews, but those are often about the downsides of debt settlement itself (such as its impact on credit scores), rather than the company’s service.
Management Team
New Era’s CEO, Dan Smith, has a strong background in finance and a focus on ethical, transparent practices. The company is committed to not only helping clients get out of debt but also educating them on how to stay out of it in the future. They pride themselves on being a debt settlement company that actually does the work in-house—they do not outsource anything, so you’re always dealing with New Era directly.
Which States Do They Cover?
New Era Debt Solutions serves clients across the United States, except in the states of Maine, Oregon, and Iowa as we covered in the beginning of this article. This may change in the future, so it’s always a good idea to fill out their pre-qualification form to see if your address allows debt settlement and if New Era operates there.
What’s the Process Like?
When you sign up, you’ll first have a consultation to review your financial situation. After that, they’ll create a plan tailored to your debt and begin negotiating with your creditors. You’ll make monthly payments into an escrow account while New Era works to settle your debts for less than what you owe. It’s a fairly straightforward process, but as with any debt settlement plan, it’s important to know that your credit score will take a hit. While under negotiation, there are also risks like collection calls or lawsuits.
Is New Era Debt Solutions Right for You?
New Era Debt Solutions has been around for over 20 years, and their track record, coupled with strong reviews and no upfront fees, makes them a legitimate option if you’re considering debt settlement. They are especially appealing if you’re struggling with large amounts of unsecured debt and need an alternative to bankruptcy. That said, debt settlement isn’t for everyone—make sure to understand the pros and cons before diving in.
If you’re dealing with overwhelming debt due to this high-inflation economic landscape, and are looking for a company that can help you decrease and/or pay off your debt, and has a great reputation, New Era could be the right fit for you. Make sure you take advantage of their free consultation to ask which of their various debt relief options is best for you.
FAQ
Here’s a frequently asked questions (FAQ) section covering the most common questions new users have about New Era Debt Solutions:
1. How much does New Era Debt Solutions charge?
New Era charges between 14% and 23% of the initial enrolled debt amount. There are no upfront fees; they only get paid when they successfully negotiate a debt reduction. This is a contingency-based fee structure.
2. What types of debt does New Era handle?
They handle unsecured debts like credit card debt, personal loans, private student loans, medical bills, and some types of business debts. They do not handle secured debts like mortgages or car loans.
3. Will using New Era affect my credit score?
Yes, debt settlement, regardless of which company you choose to work with, will negatively impact your credit score. Settling a debt means paying less than the full amount owed, which creditors deem a negative event. However, the impact is less damaging than bankruptcy.
4. Is New Era Debt Solutions accredited and reputable?
Yes, New Era has BBB accreditation and has an A+ rating. They have generally positive reviews from clients on platforms like TrustPilot and the BBB website.
5. Where is New Era available?
New Era is accessible in 46 states as well as Washington D.C. and the Virgin Islands. They do NOT operate in Maine, Oregon, and Iowa.They collaborate with the Consumer First Legal Network to offer services in certain states where they may not directly operate.
6. What happens if a creditor refuses to settle?
If a creditor refuses to negotiate, they could potentially take legal action, which might result in lawsuits or wage garnishments. However, most creditors prefer to negotiate rather than pursue costly legal action.
7. How long does the debt settlement process take?
The typical debt settlement program with New Era takes around 28 months. The exact duration depends on the amount of debt, your monthly contributions, and how quickly creditors agree to settlements.
8. Can I cancel my program with New Era Debt Solutions?
Yes, clients can cancel their program with New Era at any time. However, any funds put towards fees or those that are in the dedicated account may be subject to the terms of the cancellation agreement.
Debt relief isn’t one-size-fits-all. If you’re considering settlement, it might be worth seeing if you qualify through a no-pressure consultation with New Era.
Amine Rahal
Amine is an entrepreneur, investor and financial writer that covers the US economy, inflation, alternative investments, cryptocurrencies and more. He has been involved in the space for over a decade.
Lauren Brown
Lauren has over 13 years of experience in wealth management and financial planning. She is a CFA charterholder and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Finance. Lauren has worked with several asset management firms, offering wealth advisory and portfolio management services to high-net-worth clients.
Seeking debt relief services in America and wondering if Family Credit Management (FCM) is a good choice? In this review, we’ll break down this debt relief company and its services, reviews, ratings, costs, and process. The goal is to help you make an informed decision if you decide to go with them as opposed to another provider.
#1 Rated Debt Settlement Company in 2025?
Are you unable to pay off your debt? If the answer is yes, then Family Credit Management may not be your best choice. Debt settlement could help you decrease your debt by up to 70%. See ourNew Era Debt review. New Era Debt has received the highest number of positive reviews amongst all the 20 companies we researched in the debt settlement space.
Family Credit Management (FCM) is a nonprofit credit counseling agency that helps individuals and families regain control over their finances through debt management plans (DMPs), credit counseling, and financial education. Established in 1996, the organization provides a range of services designed to help consumers reduce debt and improve their financial well-being.
Headquarters: Rockford, Illinois
States Covered: Nationwide (Available in most U.S. states)
Family Credit Management offers debt relief through DMPs (debt management plans) unlike debt settlement companies like Turbo Debt, CuraDebt or New Era Debt Solutions who focus mostly on reducing your overall debt, but with a bigger hit on your credit profile. Some of these services include:
Free Credit Counseling
Debt Management Plans (DMPs)
Budget Planning & Financial Education
Housing Counseling
Bankruptcy Counseling
Student Loan Counseling
FCM vs Competitors
Feature
Family Credit Management
New Era Debt Solutions
Accredited Debt Relief
Type
Nonprofit Credit Counseling
For-Profit Debt Settlement
For-Profit Debt Settlement
Min Debt Required
None
$10,000
$10,000
Services
DMPs, Counseling, Housing & Bankruptcy Help
Debt Settlement Only
Debt Settlement, Consolidation (via partners)
Upfront Fees
$0 to $50 (varies by state)
None
None
Monthly Fees
$25–$75
None
None
Debt Reduction Potential
Low to Moderate (via interest reductions)
Up to 50% or more
Up to 50% or more
Effect on Credit Score
Mild short-term dip, long-term improvement
Likely to drop at first
Likely to drop at first
BBB Rating
A+
A+
A+
Trustpilot Rating
4.7/5
4.9/5
4.6/5
Best For
People with steady income wanting ethical repayment
People behind on payments looking for biggest reduction
People looking to settle debts and avoid bankruptcy
FCM’S Minimum Requirements:
Minimum Debt: No strict minimum (ideal for those struggling with multiple credit accounts)
Income Minimum: Must have verifiable income to support a repayment plan
FCM’s Ratings & Reviews:
Family Credit Management is known for its ethical approach, nonprofit status, and commitment to financial education. Here’s how they are rated across major platforms:
BBB Rating: A+ (Accredited Business)
BBB Reviews: 4.6/5 Stars
Trustpilot: 4.7/5 Stars
Google Reviews: 4.5/5 Stars
Consumer Affairs: 4.4/5 Stars
Investopedia Rating: 4.2/5 Stars
Accreditations: Member of the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC), HUD-approved housing counseling agency
Key Features & Benefits:
1. Free Credit Counseling
Family Credit Management provides a free, no-obligation financial assessment to help clients understand their financial situation and explore available debt relief options.
2. Debt Management Plans (DMPs)
FCM works with creditors to reduce interest rates and eliminate fees.
Clients make one consolidated monthly payment to FCM, which is then distributed to creditors.
Most DMPs last 36 to 60 months, depending on the debt amount.
3. Nonprofit & Transparent Fee Structure
As a nonprofit agency, FCM offers low-cost solutions with fees based on state regulations.
Fees typically range from $0 to $50 for enrollment and $25 to $75 monthly.
4. Housing & Bankruptcy Counseling
Provides HUD-approved housing counseling for individuals seeking mortgage assistance.
Offers pre-bankruptcy counseling and post-filing debtor education, as required by federal law.
5. Financial Education Resources
Free online courses, budgeting tools, and financial guides.
Personalized coaching to help clients avoid future financial hardships.
Limitations & Considerations:
While Family Credit Management has many benefits, here are some potential downsides:
DMPs require discipline – If you miss a payment, creditors may revoke benefits.
Not all debts qualify – Secured debts like mortgages and car loans are not eligible.
State restrictions apply – Certain services may not be available in all states.
Customer Support Review:
Family Credit Management is praised for its supportive and professional team. Many customers highlight the easy enrollment process and clear communication.
Here’s what a customer named Sarah had to say:
“Family Credit Management helped me lower my credit card interest rates and simplify my payments. Their team was patient, explained everything clearly, and made me feel confident in my financial recovery. Highly recommend!”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What types of debt does Family Credit Management handle? FCM specializes in unsecured debts, such as credit card debt, medical bills, personal loans, and collections. They do not handle secured debts like car loans or mortgages.
2. How does Family Credit Management’s debt management plan work? A DMP consolidates all your eligible debts into one monthly payment. FCM negotiates with creditors to lower interest rates and waive fees, helping you pay off debt faster.
3. Are there any upfront fees? FCM’s fees vary by state, but they do not charge high upfront fees like some for-profit debt relief companies. Many clients qualify for low-cost or waived fees.
4. Will using a debt management plan affect my credit score? DMPs may initially impact your credit score, but as you make consistent payments and reduce your debt, your score is likely to improve over time.
5. How long does a debt management plan take? Most DMPs take 3 to 5 years to complete, depending on the amount of debt enrolled.
6. Is Family Credit Management available in all U.S. states? FCM operates in most states, but some state-specific restrictions may apply. Check their website or call for details.
7. Does Family Credit Management offer student loan assistance? Yes, FCM provides guidance on student loan repayment options but does not offer direct consolidation services.
8. What qualifications do I need to enroll in a debt management plan? You must have verifiable income to ensure you can make consistent monthly payments.
9. What should I expect during the free consultation? During the consultation, a credit counselor will review your finances, discuss debt repayment strategies, and outline your best options.
10. How do I get started with Family Credit Management? Visit www.familycredit.org or call 1-800-994-3328 for a free consultation.
Final Thoughts: Is Family Credit Management Right for You?
Family Credit Management is a trusted nonprofit credit counseling agency that offers debt management plans, financial education, and personalized guidance. Their low fees, strong reputation, and commitment to financial literacy make them a great choice for individuals struggling with credit card debt and looking for an ethical, effective solution.
If you’re overwhelmed by debt and need expert assistance, Family Credit Management is a solid option.
Overwhelmed with debt? You’re at the right place. We will discuss debt consolidation attorneys and how they can help you get rid of your debt once and for all. Unlike debt settlement companies, who tend to focus on one service (settlement), debt lawyers and attorneys can offer a large variety of services that include debt management plans, bankruptcies and handle more complex cases. In this page, we’ll review some of the top lawyers in this industry, and what they can offer for you to help with your debt.
💼 What Is a Debt Consolidation Lawyer?
In a nutshell, a debt consolidation lawyer (or debt relief attorney) is a legal professional who helps individuals or small businesses better manage their debt, which may involve legally restructure their debts into a single payment plan — typically to avoid bankruptcy, protect assets, or stop aggressive creditor actions.
Unlike debt consolidation companies or financial counselors, these lawyers can provide legal advice, negotiate settlements, and represent you in court.
Top 10 Debt Consolidation Law Firms & Attorneys
1. Oak View Law Group (OVLG)
Location:Auburn, CA (Headquarters); also has a contracted attorney location in Metuchen, NJ.
Client Testimonials:Over 400 video and text reviews available on their website.ovlg.com
Best for: All-around debt relief, especially payday loans and private student loans
Based in California, OVLG is one of the few law firms offering full-service debt settlement, consolidation, and bankruptcy support to clients across the U.S. They’ve helped over 6,700 clients and even offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee. OVLG handles nearly all consumer debt types and lets clients track their progress through an online dashboard. Their support is fully remote, with consultations done by phone or video. Read our review of OLVG for more.
2. McCarthy Law PLC
Location:Scottsdale, AZ.
Availability:Provides services in multiple states; contact directly for specific state availability.
Best for: Legal defense if you’re being sued over debt
McCarthy Law is known for defending clients in court against debt collectors and creditors. They negotiate debt settlements and also help with credit report disputes and FDCPA violations. All services are performed by licensed attorneys. If you’ve been served with a lawsuit or want legal protection while settling debt, this is one of the best firms in the country.
Facebook:Positive client testimonials highlighting knowledge and trustworthiness.
Best for: Low-income or fixed-income clients seeking personalized help
This debt consolidation law firm provides debt relief and legal protection for seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities. Their team of attorneys operates in over 30 states, and all services are remote. They also help enforce consumer protection laws if you’re being harassed by collectors. Clients often praise the supportive, non-judgmental approach.
4. Price Law Group
Location:Encino, CA.
Availability:Offers services in multiple states; contact directly for specific state availability.
Best for: Clients weighing bankruptcy vs. settlement
With 30+ years of experience, Price Law Group is ideal if you need to explore both bankruptcy and out-of-court settlement options. They operate nationwide, represent you in court if needed, and offer services under the “Resolve Law” brand. They’re particularly skilled at handling large debt loads and foreclosure defense.
5. Watton Law Group
Location:Milwaukee, WI; with offices in multiple states including MO, CO, and AR.
Availability:Offers services in multiple states; contact directly for specific state availability.
Client Testimonials:Positive reviews highlighting professionalism and responsiveness.
Best for: Foreclosure defense and bankruptcy
Watton Law Group focuses on helping clients avoid foreclosure, stop wage garnishment, and restructure secured debts through bankruptcy. They’re a great choice for people behind on mortgage or car payments. Though based in the Midwest, they work with clients across the U.S. and have decades of experience in consumer law.
6. Ariano & Associates
Location:Information not readily available.
Availability:Offers services in multiple states; contact directly for specific state availability.
Website:Information not readily available.
Phone:Information not readily available.
Reviews:Information not readily available
Best for: Personalized, small-firm legal service
This firm offers hands-on, attorney-led support with a focus on debt settlement and bankruptcy. Clients appreciate having a direct line to their lawyer instead of going through paralegals or call centers. They handle credit card, payday, and student loan debt (private), and work with clients in multiple states remotely.
7. Recovery Law Group (Wajda & Associates)
Location:Anderson, IN.
Availability:Offers services in multiple states; contact directly for specific state availability.
Best for: Quick bankruptcy filings and settlement with tech support
Recovery Law Group provides debt relief and bankruptcy help in over a dozen states. Their mobile-friendly portal and strong customer support make it easy to work with them remotely. They also take legal action against abusive debt collectors and offer flexible payment plans.
8. Kaplan Law Firm
Location:Chicago, IL.
Availability:Offers services in multiple states; contact directly for specific state availability.
Client Testimonials:Positive reviews highlighting professionalism and dedication.
Best for: Student loan debt and forgiveness programs
If your biggest issue is student loan debt (especially federal loans), Kaplan Law is the clear choice. Attorney Rae Kaplan is a nationally recognized expert in Public Service Loan Forgiveness and income-based repayment. They also handle bankruptcy and consumer debt, but their student loan expertise is unmatched.
9. Five Lakes Law Group
Location:Southfield, MI.
Availability:Offers services in multiple states; contact directly for specific state availability.
Best for: Affordable debt consolidation without bankruptcy
Five Lakes offers a structured debt settlement program with attorney oversight, all done online. You make one affordable monthly payment, and they negotiate with creditors on your behalf. It’s great for clients with moderate debt who want to avoid court or bankruptcy. Their app lets you track your progress easily.
10. Turnbull Law Group
Location:Naperville, IL.
Availability:Offers services in multiple states; contact directly for specific state availability.
Yelp:Positive reviews highlighting professionalism and ease of process
Best for: Large-scale debt relief and legal backup
Turnbull Law Group has resolved over $1 billion in debt and represents more than 80,000 clients. They combine attorney-led settlement programs with legal defense and bankruptcy filing options. If you’re facing lawsuits or overwhelmed with multiple types of debt, Turnbull offers the resources and scale to help fast.
N.B.: that availability and services may vary by state. I’d recommend to inquire and contact each firm directly to confirm their services in your specific location.
🧠 What These Attorneys Can Help With
Any debt consolidation lawyer listed above can help with the following:
Legal Service
Description
🧾 Negotiate with creditors
Work directly with your creditors to reduce balances, waive penalties, or extend your repayment terms.
⚖️ Provide legal protection
Stop wage garnishments, bank levies, or lawsuits through court intervention or filing legal motions.
💳 Structure legal payment plans
Develop a court-approved repayment plan, such as a consumer proposal (Canada) or Chapter 13 bankruptcy (U.S.).
🛡️ Represent you in court
Defend you in lawsuits from creditors or debt collectors and navigate the bankruptcy process.
📝 Handle complex debt cases
Deal with tax debt, secured loans (like car repossessions), or debts involving judgments or liens.
⚖️ When to Hire a Debt Consolidation Lawyer
Consider a lawyer when:
You’re being sued by a creditor or face wage garnishment
You have complex debts (tax debt, secured loans, business debt)
You’ve been threatened with repossession or foreclosure
Your debt is too overwhelming for standard consolidation loans
You want to explore legal debt restructuring or bankruptcy alternatives
You need peace of mind with attorney-client privilege
🆚 Comparison Table: Debt Consolidation Lawyer vs Other Providers
Feature / Provider
Debt Relief Company
Credit Counselor
Debt Consolidation Lawyer
Combines debt into one payment
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
Offers financial coaching
✅ Sometimes
✅ Yes
⚠️ Rarely
Can lower interest rates
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
Can negotiate to reduce debt
✅ Yes
⚠️ Sometimes
✅ Yes
Can protect you legally
❌ No
❌ No
✅ Yes
Can stop wage garnishment
❌ No
❌ No
✅ Yes
Can represent you in court
❌ No
❌ No
✅ Yes
Can file bankruptcy or proposals
❌ No
❌ No
✅ Yes
Regulated by law/bar association
❌ No
❌ No
✅ Yes
Good for small unsecured debts
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
⚠️ Overkill
Best for complex/high-stakes cases
❌ No
❌ No
✅ Yes
Typical cost
15–25% of debt enrolled
Monthly fees
Hourly or flat legal fees
✅ Pros and ❌ Cons of Hiring a Debt Consolidation Lawyer
✅ Pros
❌ Cons
Can legally protect you from collections
Typically more expensive than debt settlement companies
Handles lawsuits, judgments, and garnishments
Not needed for simple debt or small balances
May negotiate better outcomes legally
May recommend bankruptcy if no other option
Gives access to court-supervised plans
May require in-person meetings
Often more ethical/regulated than some firms
Not all lawyers specialize in debt relief
🧭 Should You Hire One?
✅ YES, if:
You’ve been sued or garnished
You’re dealing with tax debt or legal judgments
You’re considering bankruptcy
You need full legal protection and representation
⚠️ NO, if:
You just need help with budgeting or negotiating interest rates
Your debts are small or under control
You’re eligible for free nonprofit credit counseling
If you’re overwhelmed by unsecured debt (e.g.: credit card, personal loans, student loans, medical bills) and exploring options to settle what you owe, Accredited Debt Relief might be one of the companies on your radar. But is it the right choice for you? In this review, we’ll dive deep into this company to help you determine if they are the right choice to get you out of debt..
This review breaks down what you need to know about Accredited Debt Relief, from how their program works to what real customers are saying.
Accreditations: American Fair Credit Council (AFCC), International Association of Professional Debt Arbitrators (IAPDA)
Services Offered by Accredited Debt Relief
Accredited Debt Relief offers debt settlement programs for individuals struggling with unsecured debt. Unlike lenders, they don’t issue loans, although they do offer consolidation loans through partners. Instead, their key service is that they negotiate with creditors on your behalf to reduce what you owe.
They help with:
Credit card debt
Medical bills
Personal loans
Some business debts
Some private student loans
As we said previously, they also partner with lenders to provide debt consolidation loans, but terms vary based on your credit profile.
Accredited Debt Relief Versus Competitors
Most debt relief companies have a similar fee structure and similar minimums. However they different slightly based on the firm. Some also support IRS and tax debt, while others don’t. Here’s a quick comparison table:
Company
Min Debt Required
Fees (% of Debt)
Types of Debt Covered
Accredited Debt Relief
$10,000
15–25%
Credit cards, personal loans, medical bills, some student loans
National Debt Relief
$7,500
15–25%
Unsecured debt, credit cards, personal loans, medical bills
Free Consultation: Discuss your financial situation with a specialist. They’ll tell whether they can help you or not, and how much it will cost. Make sure you ask them all the questions you have in mind.
Enrollment: If you qualify, you begin making monthly payments into a dedicated account.
Negotiation: Their team works with creditors to settle debts for less than owed.
Resolution: You approve each settlement offer; fees are charged only after successful negotiation.
Pros and Cons of Accredited Debt Relief
👍 Pros:
No upfront fees
Free consultation
Accredited by AFCC and IAPDA
Thousands of positive reviews across platforms
Customizable plans
👎 Cons:
Only available for unsecured debt
May negatively impact your credit during program
Not available in all 50 states
Fees can be up to 25% of enrolled debt (some competitors can go as low as 13%, so shop around!)
Customer Reviews & Ratings
BBB Rating: A+ (4.8/5 stars from 2,000+ reviews)
TrustPilot: 4.9/5 stars (8,100+ reviews)
Google: 4.8/5 stars (10,000+ reviews)
Accredited Debt Relief boasts one of the highest Google Reviews ratings amongst companies we’ve reviewed on this site.
Customer sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many praising their customer service, communication, and results. However, some note delays in settlements or initial confusion during onboarding.
Is Accredited Debt Relief Legit?
Yes. They are a legitimate company with tens of thousands of reviews and major accreditations. But as with all debt settlement programs, results vary based on your situation and discipline. We recommend you analyze different options, such as debt consolidation, debt management plans (DMP’s), bankruptcy or other debt relief methods. Accredited Debt Relief may not always be the right choice for you, as their services comes with downsides.
Accredited Debt Relief has over 8,000 reviews on TrustPilot
Final Verdict
Accredited Debt Relief is a solid option for individuals with over $10,000 in unsecured debt who want a professional team to negotiate settlements on their behalf. While debt settlement may hurt your credit short-term, it can help avoid bankruptcy and reduce your total debt load in the long run.
If you’re ready to explore your options, a free consultation is a good first step.
Is Freedom Debt Relief Legit? Here’s an honest look at one of America’s largest debt settlement companies. This review follows reviews we have done of other similar companies such as New Era Debt, Family Credit Management, Cura Debt and Turbo Debt. Ultimately, all these debt relief companies offer similar services, so we recommend that you shop around and check the rates you get from different companies. Don’t just pick the first one.
Overview of the Company
Freedom Debt Relief (FDR) is one of the most established debt settlement firms in the U.S., helping clients resolve over $15 billion in debt since 2002. Headquartered in San Mateo, CA, it serves clients nationwide (excluding a few states) and focuses on unsecured debt such as credit card balances and medical bills.
Please check the most current ratings from these review sites as they may have changed since we wrote this review.
How It Works
Start with a free consultation
Enroll in a custom settlement plan
Deposit monthly into a secure account
FDR negotiates with creditors on your behalf
You approve and pay reduced settlements
Graduate after debts are resolved (24–48 months)
Is It Right for You?
Great for:
Anyone with $10k+ in unsecured debt
People seeking a big, reputable brand
Those needing hands-on guidance and a support team
Not ideal for:
Consumers with secured debt or IRS tax issues
People living in restricted states
Anyone seeking a DIY or consolidation loan approach
💬 Frequently Asked Questions About Freedom Debt Relief
1. What does Freedom Debt Relief do?
Freedom Debt Relief helps consumers settle unsecured debts—primarily credit card balances—by negotiating directly with creditors to reduce the total amount owed. They create customized programs based on your debt, income, and hardship.
2. Is Freedom Debt Relief legit?
Yes. Freedom Debt Relief has been operating since 2002 and is accredited by the American Association for Debt Resolution (AADR) and certified by the International Association of Professional Debt Arbitrators (IAPDA). They’ve helped over 850,000 people resolve more than $15 billion in debt.
3. What kind of debt can Freedom help with?
They handle unsecured debts, including:
Credit cards
Personal loans
Medical bills
Store cards
Some private student loans
They do NOT work with:
Mortgages
Auto loans
IRS tax debt
Federal student loans
4. What is the minimum debt required?
You typically need at least $7,500–$10,000 in unsecured debt to qualify for their program.
5. How does the debt settlement process work?
You stop paying your creditors.
You deposit funds monthly into a dedicated settlement account.
Freedom negotiates with your creditors after enough funds accumulate.
They settle the debt for less than what you owe.
You approve the settlement before payment is released.
The process usually takes 24–48 months depending on your ability to save.
6. How much can I save with Freedom Debt Relief?
On average, clients who complete the program reduce their enrolled debt by 45–60% before fees. After fees, net savings may be 20–30% depending on your specific case.
7. What fees does Freedom charge?
Freedom charges 15% to 25% of the enrolled debt amount, but only after a successful settlement is reached. No upfront fees are charged (in compliance with FTC rules).
8. Will this hurt my credit score?
Yes, debt settlement typically causes a temporary drop in your credit score because you stop making payments to creditors. However, many clients see gradual recovery after completing the program and resolving debts.
9. Does Freedom Debt Relief guarantee success?
No. Results vary by client. Some creditors may not agree to settle, and you must remain consistent with your monthly deposits. However, Freedom has thousands of successful settlements documented.
10. Can I cancel the program if I change my mind?
Yes. You are not locked in. You can cancel at any time without penalty. However, if you cancel after a debt has already been settled, you will still owe the associated settlement fee.
11. Is this service available in all 50 states?
No. Freedom is currently available in 40+ U.S. states. They do not operate in:
CT
GA
HI
IL
ME
NH
NJ
ND
OR
SC
(Since this list may change, please check their site or call to confirm availability in your state.)
12. What happens to interest and late fees during the program?
While enrolled, creditors may still charge interest and late fees until a settlement is reached. These costs are factored into settlement negotiations.
13. Is the forgiven debt taxable?
Yes, in most cases the IRS considers forgiven debt taxable income. Freedom recommends speaking with a tax advisor to understand your obligations.
14. What happens if I miss a monthly payment?
Missing payments can delay settlements or cause your account to be removed from the program. Consistency is critical to success.
15. Can I still use my credit cards during the program?
No. You must stop using credit cards that are enrolled in the program. Using them can jeopardize your eligibility.
16. Will I receive collection calls?
Yes. Because you’re not paying creditors directly, you may receive calls or notices. However, Freedom provides advice and support to help manage communications.
17. Can Freedom Debt Relief stop lawsuits or wage garnishment?
No, not directly. Debt settlement may reduce the chance of being sued, but it doesn’t guarantee protection. If you’re facing legal action, consult an attorney.
18. Who should avoid debt settlement?
You should probably avoid debt settlement if:
You’re not behind on payments
You can pay off your debt in under 2 years with budgeting
You need to protect your credit score at all costs
You primarily have secured debt (mortgage, auto loans)
Final Verdict
Freedom Debt Relief is a trusted, experienced player in the debt relief industry. With no upfront fees, a solid negotiation team, and thousands of satisfied clients, it’s a solid option for those struggling with unsecured debt. While it may not be the most boutique or personal solution, it’s certainly one of the most proven.
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