Freedom Debt Relief – Full 2025 Review (Fees + Ratings + Comparison)

by Amine Rahal | May 3, 2025 | Debt Relief

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.

• Founded: 2002
• Headquarters: San Mateo, CA
• Website: www.freedomdebtrelief.com
• Minimum Debt: $10,000
• Fees: 15%–25% of enrolled debt
• Accreditations: AADR, IAPDA, BBB A+

Key Services Offered

• Free debt consultation
• Custom settlement plans
• Creditor negotiation
• Online dashboard
• Dedicated support team

Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
✅ One of the most experienced firms	❌ Credit score may drop during program
✅ No upfront fees	❌ Not available in every state
✅ Strong client support & dashboard	❌ May receive frequent sales calls
✅ Accredited by major associations	❌ Not suitable for secured or tax debt

Ratings & Reviews Summary

Source	Rating	Highlights
BBB	A+ / 4.47★	Strong transparency record
TrustPilot	4.6★ (42,000+)	Customer service and results praised
Google Reviews	4.7★	Generally positive, some delays noted

Please check the most current ratings from these review sites as they may have changed since we wrote this review.

How It Works

1. Start with a free consultation
2. Enroll in a custom settlement plan
3. Deposit monthly into a secure account
4. FDR negotiates with creditors on your behalf
5. You approve and pay reduced settlements
6. 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.

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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.

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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

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4. What is the minimum debt required?

You typically need at least $7,500–$10,000 in unsecured debt to qualify for their program.

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5. How does the debt settlement process work?

1. You stop paying your creditors.

2. You deposit funds monthly into a dedicated settlement account.

3. Freedom negotiates with your creditors after enough funds accumulate.

4. They settle the debt for less than what you owe.

5. You approve the settlement before payment is released.

The process usually takes 24–48 months depending on your ability to save.

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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.

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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).

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.)

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

Check Eligibility at FreedomDebtRelief.com

CuraDebt – Legit Company for Debt Relief? Read Our Review…

by Amine Rahal | Feb 5, 2025 | Debt Relief

Credit: CuraDebt.com

CuraDebt (https://www.curadebt.com/) is a debt relief company that has been in business since 1996 (according to their website), making it one of the oldest in the industry. They offer debt settlement and relief  services for various types of unsecured debt, including credit card debt, personal loans, medical bills, and tax debt. Based on our review, CuraDebt seems to have generated a lot of positive reviews for its debt relief services, particularly for its ability to help clients reduce their debt significantly through negotiations with creditors.

Who is CuraDebt?

As we said earlier, CuraDebt is a debt settlement company that specializes in negotiating with creditors on behalf of consumers to reduce their overall debt. They work with individuals who are struggling to manage their credit card debt, tax debt, medical bills, or other unsecured debts.

• Headquarters: Hollywood, Florida.
• States Covered: All states EXCEPT: Connecticut, Georgia, Kansas, New Hampshire, South Carolina, Vermont, and West Virginia
• Founded in: 1996 in Irvine.
• Website: https://www.curadebt.com/
• Phone: 1-877-850-3328 Ext. 400
• Services Offered:
  • Free Debt Counselling
  • Negotiation With Creditors
  • Debt settlement
  • Tax debt relief
  • Debt consolidation (through partner lenders – watch out for the rates if you choose this path!)
• Minimum debt: $5,000
• Minimum Age: Must be at least 21+ years old.
• Income Minimum: No minimum but must have verifiable regular income

Company Legitimacy, Ratings & Reviews

As we covered earlier, this company is operating in the debt settlement space since 1996, which makes it one of the oldest in the industry. In our view, the company’s longevity speaks volumes about its professionalism and customer service.

• BBB Rating: A+ (best)
• BBB Reviews: 4.74/5 Stars (27 Reviews)
• Google Reviews: 4.8/5 Stars (304 Reviews)
• Investopedia: 3.9/5 Stars
• Yelp: 4.6/5 Stars (12 Reviews)
• TrustPilot: 4.7/5 Stars (30 Reviews)
• BankRate: 4.6/5 Stars
• Accreditations:
  • Member of the American Association for Debt Resolution (AADR)
  • Certified by the International Association of Professional Debt Arbitrators (IAPDA)

CuraDebt BBB

CuraDebt Investopedia Rating

CuraDebt Google Rating

CuraDebt Key Services & Features

• Free Consultation: They provide a free initial consultation to discuss your debt situation and see whether you qualify for their services and what debt relief program is best for you.
• List of Services Offered:
  • Debt Settlement
  • Debt Relief (Personal and Business)
  • Debt Negotiation
  • Debt Consolidation Program
  • Tax Debt Relief
• Fee structure: No upfront fees; charges a fee only after successful debt settlement. Typically 20% of the settled debt
• Strategy: Utilizes various strategies, such as creditor violations (e.g., FDCPA, TCPA) to negotiate better terms for clients
• Limitations: services are not available in all U.S. states. Fill out the form to see if you qualify.

One of the key advantages of CuraDebt is that it does not charge upfront fees, meaning you only pay once a debt settlement has been successfully negotiated. The company’s fee structure is typically around 20% of the settled debt, which is in line with industry standards. CuraDebt is also known for its ability to identify creditor violations, which can sometimes lead to additional savings or settlements for the client.

However, it’s important to note that debt settlement can negatively impact your credit score, as the process often involves stopping payments to creditors while negotiations are underway. Additionally, CuraDebt’s services are not available in all U.S. states, and there have been some mixed reviews about customer service and transparency.

Customer Support Review

They seem to have a responsive customer support through their live chat feature. In fact, we asked their support team to explain their services briefly, and here is what one of their support agents named Genesis had to say:

“I’m going to explain a bit about our company and how we will assist you with your debt. Since 2000, we have been working nationwide, directly with clients’ creditors, to negotiate savings of 40 to 60 percent. Instead of making individual monthly payments to creditors, we create a plan for you where a portion of your funds is deposited into an account. As this amount accumulates, we negotiate agreements with your creditors on your behalf to eliminate your debt more quickly.

Here’s how it works: We will negotiate with each of your creditors to reduce the total amount you owe. For example, if you owe Capital One $800, and we negotiate it down to $300, you would pay $300 instead of $800. This $300 will come from your monthly payments into the account. Whenever we receive an offer, we will contact you to present it. Once you accept the offer, the money will be sent to the creditor.”

CuraDebt FAQ

What types of debt does CuraDebt handle?

CuraDebt specializes in settling unsecured debts, including credit card debt, personal loans, medical bills, private student loans, and tax debts. The company does not typically handle secured debts like mortgages or auto loans​, although you should probably ask them to find out.

2. How does the CuraDebt debt settlement process work?

The process begins with a free consultation to assess your debt situation and see if you qualify for their services. If you enroll, CuraDebt will negotiate with your creditors to reduce the amount you owe. You’ll make monthly deposits into a dedicated savings account, which will be used to settle the negotiated debts. The typical time frame for settlement is 24 to 48 months​.

3. Are there any upfront fees?

No, CuraDebt does not charge any upfront fees. You only pay a fee (usually 20% of the settled debt) after a successful settlement is reached and accepted​.

4. Will using CuraDebt affect my credit score?

Yes, participating in a debt settlement program can negatively impact your credit score. The process often involves stopping payments to creditors, which can lead to a drop in your credit score. However, the goal is to eventually settle the debts for less than what is owed, which may help improve your financial situation in the long run​. Also, note that the impact on your credit score isn’t as bad as a consumer proposal or bankruptcy.

5. How long does the debt settlement process take?

The debt settlement process with CuraDebt typically takes between 24 and 48 months, depending on the amount of debt and how quickly you can accumulate funds in your savings account for settlement​.

6. Is CuraDebt available in all U.S. states?

No, CuraDebt’s services are not available in all states. It operates in 26 states and the District of Columbia. If you live in a state where CuraDebt does not operate, you’ll need to look for alternative debt relief options.

7. Does CuraDebt offer tax debt relief?

Yes, CuraDebt offers services to help with tax debt relief. Their team includes tax professionals who can negotiate with the IRS on your behalf to resolve tax debts, penalties, and liens​.

8. What are the qualifications to use CuraDebt’s services?

To qualify for CuraDebt’s services, you must have a minimum of $5,000 in unsecured debt, be at least 21 years old, and have verifiable income. There is no maximum debt limit for their services​.

9. What should I expect during the free consultation?

During the free consultation, a CuraDebt counselor will review your financial situation and discuss your options for debt relief. They will explain the potential savings, timeline, risks, and fees involved in the process. This consultation helps you decide if debt settlement is the right choice for you​.

10. How do I get started with CuraDebt?

To get started, you can visit CuraDebt’s website to request a free savings estimate or call their customer service line. If you decide to enroll, you’ll be assigned a debt counselor who will guide you through the entire settlement process​.

Understanding Predatory Lending & Interest Rate Caps in the U.S.

by Amine Rahal | Aug 30, 2024 | Debt Relief

In the U.S., interest rate caps—especially when it comes to protecting consumers from predatory lending—are largely regulated at the state level. This means that the maximum interest rates lenders can charge vary depending on which state you live in and the type of loan we’re taking out. Let’s break down how this works across different states.

What Qualifies as a “Predatory Loan”?

First, let’s compare a traditional loan you would get from a bank versus a “predatory loan” you would get from an alternative lender:

Essentially, a predatory loan is a type of loan that takes advantage of borrowers in vulnerable and dire financial situations. These loans often come with excessively high interest rates, hidden fees, or deceptive terms that make it difficult for borrowers to repay the loan.

Federal Protections

Before diving into state specifics, it’s worth noting that there is a federal cap in place for certain groups. The Military Lending Act (MLA) caps interest rates at 36% APR for active-duty service members and their dependents on most consumer loans. This law provides a strong layer of protection, but it only applies to military members. You can learn more about the MLA on the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) website.

State-Level Interest Rate Caps

Interest rate caps for everyone else are set by state laws, and these can vary widely:

1. California
   • Payday Loans: In California, payday lenders can charge up to $15 per $100 borrowed, which can equate to an APR of over 400% depending on the term of the loan.
   • Installment Loans: For loans over $2,500, there’s no cap on interest rates.
   • More Info: Check out California’s Department of Financial Protection and Innovation for detailed regulations.
2. Colorado
   • Payday Loans: Colorado has one of the stricter caps, limiting payday loan interest rates to 36% APR. This was implemented after voters approved a 2018 ballot measure to curb high-interest payday loans.
   • More Info: Visit the Colorado Attorney General’s Office for more details on payday loan regulations.
3. New York
   • All Loans: New York has a strict usury law that caps interest rates at 16% for most types of consumer loans. Charging above 25% is considered criminal usury.
   • More Info: For more on New York’s laws, the New York State Department of Financial Services is a good resource.
4. South Dakota
   • Payday Loans: Like Colorado, South Dakota caps payday loan rates at 36% APR. This cap was set after a successful 2016 ballot initiative aimed at protecting consumers from predatory lending practices.
   • More Info: Learn more on the South Dakota Division of Banking website.
5. Texas
   • Payday Loans: Texas doesn’t cap interest rates directly for payday loans, but it does regulate fees. This can still lead to APRs that exceed 400%, depending on the loan’s terms, which is extremely high.
   • More Info: The Texas Office of Consumer Credit Commissioner provides more information on lending laws in the state.
6. Illinois
   • All Loans: As of 2021, Illinois capped interest rates at 36% APR for all consumer loans, including payday loans, through the Predatory Loan Prevention Act.
   • More Info: Check out the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation for more on this.
7. Florida
   • Payday Loans: Florida caps payday loan fees, effectively limiting the APR to around 304% for a typical two-week payday loan.
   • More Info: Visit the Florida Office of Financial Regulation for details.
8. Utah
   • All Loans: Utah has no cap on interest rates, making it one of the most lender-friendly states in the U.S. This means payday lenders and other high-interest lenders can charge extremely high rates. Beware of Utah-based lenders.
   • More Info: For more, see the Utah Department of Financial Institutions.

Know Your Rights & Do Your Due Diligence

These state-specific laws are crucial because they determine how much protection you have against predatory lending practices. In states with strict caps like New York or Colorado, consumers are generally safer from exorbitant interest rates. But in states like Utah or Texas, the lack of caps means consumers need to be extra cautious when taking out loans.

Predatory loans have put many American consumers in dire financial situations, exacerbating their debt and pushing them into bankruptcies. If you are dealing with high debt and are struggling to pay your bills, consider debt settlement instead of requesting another loan which will most likely put you deeper into debt. 

Finding Out More

If you’re considering taking out a loan, it’s a good idea to first check what the interest rate caps are in your state. You can usually find this information through your state’s Department of Financial Services or a similar regulatory body. Additionally, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) offers a wealth of resources on consumer rights and protections.

By understanding these caps, you can better protect yourself from predatory lending practices and make more informed financial decisions.

Oak View Law Group – Good for Debt Relief & Settlement? Read Our Review…

by Alex Demolitor | Jul 8, 2024 | Debt Relief

If debt problems are mounting and pressure from creditors has become overwhelming, seeking professional help can ease the burden. Instead of forging the difficult path alone, strategizing with experts reduces the economic and psychological strain.

But, is Oak View Law Group the right partner to get you out of debt?

About the Company

• URL: https://www.ovlg.com/
• Phone: 1-800-530-6854
• Email: clientintake@ovlg.com
• Company HQ: Auburn, CA
• Trustpilot Reviews: 4.4/5 stars (15 reviews)
• Google Reviews: 4.4/5 stars (12 reviews)
• Better Business Bureau (BBB) Reviews: 4.7/5 (12 reviews)

Pros and Cons

For a quick breakdown of how Oak View Law Group stacks up, please see the list below:

Pros:

• Has helped more than 6,700 clients become debt-free
• Its team of experts has experience across 15 segments of consumer law
• There is a “No-Questions-Asked Refund Policy”
• Oak View Law Group provides professional guidance and mentorship throughout the debt-relief process
• Oak View Law Group can often settle your debts at 40% to 60% of the outstanding balance
• There are services for auto, medical, and student loan debt
• Highly rated by clients

Cons:

• Fees are federally regulated but can be high in some cases

What is Oak View Law Group?

Helping more than 6,700 clients become debt-free, Oak View Law Group is a consumer law firm headquartered in California. It specializes in debt relief, debt consolidation, and bankruptcy services. The group helps clients save money, avoid lawsuits, and has a team of experts with experience across 15 segments of consumer law. Moreover, Oak View Law Group has a “No-Questions-Asked Refund Policy,” where your fees and trust account balance are reimbursed if you’re unsatisfied with the service.

Some of Oak View Law Group’s services include:

• Debt Consolidation
• Debt Settlement
• Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
• Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
• Payday Loan Consolidation
• Payday Loan Settlement

For more insights on the value of these services, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has a helpful guide on How To Get Out of Debt.

How Can Oak View Law Group Help Me?

Working with a credit professional is like having an experienced coach to draw up plays on your behalf. And like any sport, it allows for a clearer strategy to achieve the team’s goals.

Oak View Law Group provides professional guidance, mentorship, and develops an effective debt-relief strategy, similar to a licensed insolvency trustee (LIT). Our partner site has an extensive guide on The Benefits of a LIT, which can help you determine if a consumer proposal or bankruptcy is the best strategy. Some of the differences include:

1. You often forfeit more personal assets in bankruptcy
2. Bankruptcy has a greater impact on your credit score
3. An initial bankruptcy stays on your credit report for six years or more versus three years with a consumer proposal

For more information, please see our partner guide, What Is a Consumer Proposal in Canada and Who Is It For?

Similarly, Oak View Law Group provides parallel guidance to a LIT. By weighing the pros and cons of several scenarios, its team can help improve your financial health by achieving the following:

• Lower monthly payments and interest charges
• Devise a plan for manageable monthly payments
• Reduce or eliminate late fees
• Reduce or eliminate collection calls

What Is Oak View Law Group’s Settlement Program?

When working with Oak View Law Group, its team handles the day-to-day negotiations with creditors. For example, they manage creditor calls, negotiations, bill payments, and ensure you can enjoy your professional and personal lives with minimal disruption.

How Long Does It Take to Become Debt-Free?

Depending on the amount owed and your excess income, estimates can vary widely. In a nutshell: it often depends on how much funds you want to allocate to debt repayments.

For example, let’s say you have $10,000 in debt and Oak View Law Group negotiates a 50% settlement. You have to pay $5,000 and can choose a lump-sum payment or monthly installments.

The firm notes that “As per the industry trends and our experience, debt can be settled at 40% to 60%, but we always negotiate for the lowest settlement percentage possible to save more for our clients.”

Thus, if you can cut the collection amount in half by working Oak View Law Group, it should greatly enhance the speed at which you become debt-free.

What Does Oak View Law Group Charge In Fees?

Adhering to FTC guidelines, Oak View Law Group’s fees are outlined in the graphics below:

What Other Services Does Oak View Law Group Provide?

If you’re struggling with auto, medical, or student loan debt, Oak View Law Group can assist in these areas too.

• Regarding auto loans, the firm can help if the vehicle has been repossessed, sold, or is being processed by a third-party collection agency.
• For overdue medical bills, the firm notes that healthcare companies “do not provide settlement offers.” Consequently, Oak View Law Group can only help you negotiate a manageable repayment plan.
• Likewise, student loan companies do not provide settlement plans either, and Oak View Law Group can only help if the account has been transferred to collections.

How Do Clients Rate Oak View Law Group?

While the firm doesn’t have a lot of Google or Trustpilot reviews, the vast majority of clients were satisfied with Oak View Law Group’s services. Many cited efficient settlement procedures and noted how Oak View Law Group provided support and guidance throughout the process. A few of the testimonials read:

• Oak View Law Group was able to settle my huge payday loan debts. The staff were very helpful and understanding. I can’t believe how fast and easy they were able to settle my debt. Much respect to Oak View Law Group. Thank you for getting me out of debt.
• OVLG assisted me in resolving three payday loan debts. Mr Sanchez assured me that all debts would settled by the projected date and I would have access to himself, agents, and my account online. The process went just as planned, he communicated with me every step of the way and was patient to answer all my concerns. I would definitely return as well as recommend OVLG.
• I have worked with OVLG, specifically, Diego, and I cannot say enough good things that he and OVLG have done for me. They have helped me so much and are diligent, professional, and understanding. I am truly amazed at how quickly Diego replies.  Great company, great assistance. They truly give you hope.

As a result, not only does Oak View Law Group develop strategies for effective debt relief, but it also shows empathy when dealing with difficult situations.

Are We Believers In Oak View Law Group?

Because client testimonials are the best indicator of distinguished service, Oak View Law Group’s reviews speak for themselves. By providing guidance, mentorship, and working with clients every step of the way, the firm has developed a compassionate reputation.

Moreover, if Oak View Law Group can negotiate debt settlements at 40% to 60% of the outstanding balance, the cost savings can greatly outweigh the service fees. On top of that, the “No-Questions-Asked Refund Policy” adds further credibility and reduces your risk if you’re unhappy with the process.

All in all, there is a lot to like about Oak View Law Group, and if your debts have become unmanageable, it may be the right firm for you.

If you want to learn more, visit: https://www.ovlg.com/