4.8
BestGuide's Rating
- A+ BBB rating & fully accredited
- No fees until accounts are settled
- Helped 600,000+ clients since 2009
4.7
BestGuide's Rating
- 500,000+ Americans enrolled
- Debt-free within 24-48 months
- Experts available 24/7
4.5
BestGuide's Rating
- Non-profit credit counseling
- Bankruptcy counseling & courses
- Extensive educational resources
4.4
BestGuide's Rating
- Over 1 million customers served
- A+ BBB rating & no upfront costs
- Free initial consultation
5
4.3
BestGuide's Rating
- Over $3B in debt negotiated
- Accredited by AADR, RMA, & BBB (A+ rated)
- "Pay-No-Fee" guarantee
7
Credit Associates
This company is not rated by BestGuide
- Similar to: National Debt Relief
- Founded: 2016
- Headquarters: Tulsa, OK
4.2
BestGuide's Rating
- Helped 250,000+ clients reduce debt
- U.S.-based since 2012, fully licensed
- No upfront or surprise program fees
Top Debt Help Companies by Features and Benefits
- Best Overall: National Debt Relief »
- Best for Settlement: Americor »
- Best for Debt Consolidation: Americor »
- Best for Debt Management and Counseling: Freedom Debt Relief »
- Best for High Debt Amount: National Debt Relief »
- Best for Credit Card Debt: National Debt Relief »
- Best for Over $10,000 Debt: National Debt Relief »
Frequently Asked Questions
Question:
Who qualifies for debt settlement?
Answer:
Anyone who is having a hard time making their credit card payments may qualify for debt settlement programs. However, some companies require borrowers to have a specific amount of debt — like $10,000 — to qualify for their services.
Ask an expert: National Debt Relief »
Question:
Will my credit score go up if I settle a debt?
Answer:
Settling debt can have both a negative and a positive effect on your credit scores. You're most likely to see a drop in points up-front, but over time you can gain back everything you lost and more. Regardless of the setback, you can always work to experience the benefits of better credit.
Ask an expert: Americor »
Question:
Can I settle a debt without going to court?
Answer:
You may settle your case at any time prior to having the court make a decision (a judgment) by either: Paying the full amount of the debt (plus any fees, costs, and interest required) Negotiating to pay a lesser amount and having the other side agree to accept that amount as full payment.
Ask an expert: Freedom Debt Relief »
Question:
Can I use my credit card after debt consolidation?
Answer:
Creditors don't want you to use the cards when you're having a benefit from a debt management program. But if there's a card that you can keep out of the program, you can do that. You can keep the card out and use it for emergencies.
Ask an expert: Americor »
Question:
How much money can I save with a debt relief program?
Answer:
Savings vary depending on your total debt, creditors, and consistency in making payments — but many clients settle their debts for 40–60% less than what they owe before fees. Fees are typically between 15–25% of your enrolled debt and are only charged after settlements are reached. You’ll receive an estimated savings breakdown before enrolling, so you know what to expect and can make an informed decision.
Ask an expert: National Debt Relief »
Question:
Are there upfront fees?
Answer:
No. Legitimate debt relief companies never charge upfront fees. Under federal law, fees can only be collected after the company negotiates and settles a debt on your behalf. This protects consumers and ensures you only pay for results. The fee amount is typically a percentage of your enrolled debt and is already built into your monthly program payment — so there are no surprise charges or add-ons along the way.
Ask an expert: Century Support Services »
Our Top Picks
BEST OVERALL
National Debt Relief
BOTTOM LINE
A+ BBB rating & fully accredited
BEST VALUE
TurboDebt
BOTTOM LINE
500,000+ Americans enrolled
TOP PICK
Cambridge Credit Counseling
BOTTOM LINE
Non-profit credit counseling