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Full Star Full Star Full Star Full Star Half Star 4.1/5 VERIFIED

BBB Accredited

Krystine Carneiro's Photo

By Krystine Carneiro

Journalist

Fact Checked

Published on November 10, 2025

Updated on November 10, 2025

Table of Contents

4.1

No Upfront Fees

Charges apply only after a successful settlement is reached.

Client-Controlled Account

Deposits are held in an FDIC-insured account under the client’s name.

Service Evaluation

  • Transparency & Communication
  • Range of Services
  • Customer Support Quality
  • Credibility & Reputation
  • Overall Client Satisfaction

Introduction

If you’re struggling with multiple unsecured debts and rising interest rates, professional debt settlement may offer a path to financial stability. This Credit Associates review examines how the company works, what services it provides, and whether it’s a legitimate choice for debt relief. Founded in Texas, Credit Associates is a nationwide debt settlement company that negotiates with creditors to help clients pay off their unsecured debt for less than the total owed. This review provides a balanced overview based on verified sources, including the BBB, FTC guidelines, and real customer feedback.

How Credit Associates Works

Credit Associates focuses on debt settlement, a process in which clients stop paying creditors directly and instead deposit money into a dedicated account until enough funds accumulate to make lump-sum settlement offers.

1. Free Consultation

The process begins with a free consultation over the phone or through the Credit Associates login portal. Specialists evaluate your total unsecured debt, typically credit cards or medical bills, and determine whether you qualify.

2. Program Enrollment

Once approved, you enroll in the core debt relief program. Instead of paying each creditor individually, you make a single monthly deposit into a dedicated account under your control. When a sufficient balance builds, Credit Associates negotiators contact your creditors to settle accounts for less than the full balance owed. Although the company cannot guarantee specific results, as settlements depend on creditor cooperation.

3. Negotiation & Settlement

The company negotiates directly with creditors to reduce your total debt. Clients typically resolve enrolled accounts within 24 to 48 months, depending on the amount of debt and creditor responsiveness.

4. Completion & Support

After settlements are finalized, Credit Associates provides documentation confirming each resolved account. Customer service remains available to assist with post-settlement questions and future financial planning resources.

Who It’s Best For

Best for consumers with $10,000 or more in unsecured debt who want a structured, hands-off settlement process.

Stand Out Features

No Upfront Fees Clients only pay after a settlement is successfully negotiated and approved, aligning incentives between the client and the company. Dedicated Account Under Client Control Funds are deposited into an FDIC-insured account held in the client’s name, not controlled by Credit Associates. Experienced Negotiation Team The company employs trained debt negotiators with experience negotiating with major creditors, improving the odds of favorable settlements. Free Consultation & Transparency Initial evaluations and program explanations are free, helping potential clients understand costs, timelines, and expected savings before enrolling.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • No upfront fees until a settlement is reached.
  • BBB accredited with a record of dispute resolution.
  • Dedicated account remains under client control.
  • Transparent consultation process.

Cons

  • Program requires stopping direct creditor payments, which can temporarily impact credit.
  • Not available for all types of debt (no secured or student loans).
  • Results vary depending on creditor cooperation.

Is Credit Associates Legit?

Yes. Credit Associates is a legitimate debt settlement company accredited by the Better Business Bureau and operating under federal and state debt relief regulations.They comply with the Federal Trade Commission’s Telemarketing Sales Rule, which prohibits charging upfront fees for settlement services. While some customer reviews mention delays or communication issues, most verified feedback highlights clear explanations and realistic expectations about debt reduction outcomes.

Final Verdict

Credit Associates is a legitimate and reasonably transparent debt settlement company with a straightforward process and no upfront fees. Its BBB accreditation and adherence to FTC guidelines make it a credible option for consumers with large unsecured debts. However, results depend heavily on individual creditor cooperation and client consistency in making monthly deposits. For those comfortable with the trade-offs of debt settlement, including temporary credit impact, Credit Associates provides a practical and reputable path toward financial recovery.

Reviews

G

Gary DeLong

Full Star Full Star Full Star Empty Star Empty Star

The timing wasn't aware it would take so long but I do appreciate the help with my debt

M

Madonna R

Full Star Full Star Full Star Full Star Full Star

I have been in the program for 19 months, but happy to say the program worked and I am debt free. **************** is very helpful, and everyone is eager to help when you call. If it wasn't ...

I have been in the program for 19 months, but happy to say the program worked and I am debt free. **************** is very helpful, and everyone is eager to help when you call. If it wasn't for this program, I would not be out of debt and I am forever grateful.

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R

Roxie L

Full Star Full Star Full Star Full Star Full Star

At first I thought I would never get my CC settled but after almost a year the progress makes me feel Im in control again.