Residents of Hawaii see no exception to the soaring housing prices and rising credit card debt that faces much of the country. According to Forbes, Hawaii ranked third in their list of the highest average credit card balance by state, coming in at $7,546 as of late 2025. The good news? There are specific debt relief options for Hawaii. Keep reading for more information on the main paths to debt relief in the state, who should consider each option, the pros and cons of each as well as trusted businesses and nonprofits that can help.
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Top 6 Debt Relief Options in Hawaii
Hawaii residents who struggle with debt-related issues have numerous ways to cope. Below is a list of the popular strategies and guidance on whether they may suit your situation.
Often the best first step
1) Credit Counseling Services
Credit counseling agencies can review your finances then help build you a budget. They can also check your credit report and help you decide on the right strategy based on your situation.
Pros: No charge for your first session, no impact on your credit score, no sales pitch
Cons: No decrease in the amount you owe
2) Debt Management Plans (DMPs)
Using a DMP, you can combine your unsecured debts into a single monthly payment. An affordable one. Credit counselors will work with your creditors to get you a lower rate of interest and could possibly get a fee waiver for your account. When your credit is subpar, a DMP is a great backup option for a consolidation loan.
Pros: One payment at a lower interest rate, minimal impact to your credit, designed to pay off your debt in around 3 to 5 years
Cons: No decrease in the principal, the payment amount must fit your budget
3) Debt Consolidation Loans
If you have high-interest loans, like those from a credit card, you can combine these loans into one, ideally with a less expensive interest rate. When you have an acceptable credit score, you can use these loans to cut down on your interest costs and help to simplify your finances.
Tip: It’s always best to look around for the most competitive terms and to avoid those lenders with high origination fees.
Pros: A single payment, potential for a lower interest rate and no impact on your credit score
Cons: You need to have a decent credit score to qualify and there is no reduction in the amount you owe
4) Debt Settlement Programs
Debt settlement companies can help by negotiating with your creditors and minimize the amount that you owe. Sometimes by a substantial amount. These programs can lead to quick relief, though they are largely a damage-control strategy rather than a credit-building one.
Pros: Can reduce your debt by over 40% before accounting for fees. Most reputable companies do not charge upfront fees.
Cons: Fees can range from 15% to 25%, and additional taxes can also cut into your savings. Your credit score will also see an impact, and creditors may still sue for the full amount.
5) Balance Transfer Credit Cards
It’s not uncommon to see a balance transfer credit card offer a 0% APR on balance transfers for the first 12 to 21 months. Should you qualify, you can move your higher-interest debt to a no-interest credit card and save on interest charges. The key is to pay off the debt before the promotional period ends.
Pros: No interest for a specific period of time, allowing major savings for smaller balances
Cons: The interest rate will soar after the promotion ends and you must have a solid credit score to qualify. Transfer fees may still apply.
6) Bankruptcy (Chapter 7 & 13)
Filing for bankruptcy is a last resort, though an option that provides a fresh start. Chapter 7 bankruptcy can eliminate many unsecured debts while Chapter 13 establishes a 3 to 5 year plan for repayment. Hawaii has an exemption law for real property up to $30,000 for a head of a family or anyone age 65 and up, or $20,000 for another qualifying individual.
Pros: A full reset, exemptions on real property, stops most collections
Cons: Remains on your credit for the long term, all debts do not qualify and rules will vary depending on the case details
Trusted Hawaii Debt Relief Companies & Nonprofits
While there are several options to consider, below is a list of the options ranked by risk. As the lowest-risk possibility, nonprofit counseling comes first as it’s a free starting point for many people. Next are reputable settlement and consolidation providers, and Hawaii-based agencies that provide local support. Before you commit, it’s best to compare a few choices. Still not sure? Check out the debt relief quiz for further guidance.
1) NFCC – National Foundation for Credit Counseling
Best for: Those seeking no cost and impartial guidance with the possibility of a DMP
Connecting you with a member nonprofit agency, the NFCC helps you to find free of charge counseling and budgeting assistance, as well as help with a DMP. There is no sales pitch, so it’s a great first contact.
Pros: Nonprofit agency, no charge counseling, DMP with a potentially lower interest rate, little impact to your credit score.
Cons: You are still responsible for the complete principal amount of your debt. Those looking for a DMP need to be able to make a monthly payment.
2) Accredited Debt Relief
Best for: Sizable unsecured debt that you are unable to fully repay
With years of experience in debt settlement, the provider negotiates on your behalf to reduce your unsecured debts. Fee payment occurs after settlement only. For more details on the associated cost and details about the process, check out our review of Accredited Debt Relief.
Pros: BBB-accredited, significant national presence, no initial cost, ability to reduce balances
Cons: Impact on your credit score, potential lawsuits, possibility of taxes on your forgiven debt, fees of around 15% to 25%
3) Beyond Finance
Best for: Unsecured debts when you are exploring debt-relief options
Beyond Finance is worth checking out if you are comparing debt consolidation loan options. Note that availability varies depending on the state, with eligibility dependent on your credit score and debt profile.
Pros: Provides settlement and access to loan options through partners
Cons: Settlement is the main offering which can impact your credit score as well as trigger fees and even taxes. If you are searching for a loan, you will need sound credit.
4) American Consumer Credit Counseling (ACCC)
Best for: Free of charge credit counseling and DMPs as well as budgeting help
The ACCC provides remote access to counseling services and can help with DMPs. Just call or apply online.
Pros: Initial counseling free of charge, access to financial education resources
Cons: Requires you have access to funding for a monthly payment plan
5) Money Management International
Best for: Those seeking free financial guidance and lower-interest repayment options
Money Management International (MMI) is a credit counseling agency that offers assistance with budgeting and DMPs. If you have enough income to repay what you owe, MMI can help simplify your payments and potentially negotiate lower interest rates with your creditors.
Pros: Free credit counseling and access to DMPs that may reduce your interest charges
Cons: You must repay the full balance. DMPs require a consistent monthly payment that fits your budget.
6) Legal Aid Society of Hawaii
Best for: Consumers dealing with debt collection lawsuits and wage garnishment, or those who have questions about their legal rights
As a nonprofit law firm, the Legal Aid Society of Hawaii strives to “help make the legal system a little less intimidating.” They offer legal assistance to residents so they can work toward solving their legal disputes and, on occasion, they provide representation for eligible residents who might need it.
Pros: Hawaii-specific guidance and free or low-cost assistance for residents who qualify. Provides legal and educational resources
Cons: Is not a debt settlement or consolidation provider. Eligibility requirements may apply.
💡 Compare your best options before you call anyone
The right path depends on your income, what you owe, and whether you’re being sued or garnished. Our quick quiz compares settlement, consolidation, counseling, bankruptcy, and DIY side by side—so you don’t commit to the wrong one. It’s the smartest first move before speaking with any provider.
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HI Debt Relief Comparison Table
| Provider | Type | Best for | Upfront fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| NFCC | Nonprofit counseling / DMP | No cost guidance | None (low-cost DMP may apply) |
| Accredited Debt Relief | Debt settlement | Significant unsecured debt that cannot be fully repaid | None (performance-based) |
| Beyond Finance | Settlement / consolidation options | Unsecured debt and those seeking a single monthly payment | None for settlement (loan options may have interest) |
| American Consumer Credit Counseling (ACCC) | Nonprofit counseling / DMP | Free counseling, budgeting help, and debt management plans | None (low-cost DMP may apply) |
| Money Management International (MMI) | Nonprofit counseling / DMP | Credit counseling and lower-interest repayment plans | None (low-cost DMP may apply) |
| Legal Aid Society of Hawaii | Legal assistance and educational resources | Debt collection lawsuits, garnishment, and legal guidance | None for qualifying residents |
Need a wider shortlist? See our rankings of the best debt settlement companies or visit our debt relief hub to compare debt relief options available across the United States.
Debt Relief by Hawaii City & Region
As you look for what is the best debt relief program in Hawaii, it’s important to know that the laws governing debt collection, wage garnishment, consumer protections and most debt relief options apply statewide. What does vary by island is access to local legal aid services and in-person financial counseling resources.
Oahu
Honolulu, Pearl City, Waipahu, Mililani, Kailua, Kaneohe
As the most populated of Hawaii’s islands, Oahu has some of the highest housing and cost of living expenses. Many residents carry significant credit card balances to manage expenses, which makes credit counseling and consolidation options a popular choice.
Maui County
Kahului, Wailuku, Kihei, Lahaina, Lanai City, Kaunakakai
Residents in Maui continue to face elevated housing costs with the community of Lahaina requiring significant rebuilding expenses. For households struggling with unsecured debt, nonprofit counseling can provide an affordable starting point.
Hawaii Island
Hilo, Kailua-Kona, Waimea, Pahoa
With a larger geographical size, not all residents of the Big Island have local financial resources nearby. Fortunately, many counseling agencies and debt providers serve residents remotely through telephone and online consultations.
Kauai
Lihue, Kapaa, Princeville, Hanapepe
Like the rest of the state, Kauai residents face higher costs for everything from daily necessities to housing. Those with a steady income may find that a DMP or consolidation strategy provides an appropriate path toward becoming debt-free.
Molokai & Lanai
Kaunakakai, Lanai City and surrounding communities
Residents of smaller Hawaiian islands may not have access to the same in-person debt relief as the rest of the state, though options for help still exist. Consider turning to online counseling, telephone consultations and even statewide nonprofit organizations for guidance.
No matter where in Hawaii you live, the smartest step is to first compare your options before committing to a specific provider. For tailored recommendations, begin by taking the debt relief quiz.
Hawaii Debt Relief FAQ
Overwhelmed with where to start? The below Hawaii-specific questions can help you to make a decision. Click the question for its answer.
How do I file a complaint against a debt collector in Hawaii?
What is the statute of limitations for debt in Hawaii?
Can creditors garnish wages in Hawaii?
Can a debt collector contact me at work?
Can a creditor take money from my bank account?
What property is protected from creditors under Hawaii exemption laws?
Should I choose debt settlement or credit counseling?
Is bankruptcy better than debt settlement?
Are debt relief companies required to be licensed in Hawaii?
Can medical debt affect my credit score?
What should I do if I have already been sued over a debt?
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Educational information only—not legal, financial, or tax advice. Laws, exemptions, and figures vary by situation and change over time. Some links are to partners who may compensate us if you use their services, at no extra cost to you; this never affects which options we recommend. Verify current details with a qualified professional before acting
