Debt Relief Solutions- A Nationwide Epidemic

In the United States, consumer debt problems are rising faster than ever before. The country has actually reached a point where the average American owes more than they make in debt. With many consumers forced to use credit just to get by on their daily needs, people are left with nowhere to turn when the money runs out and the bills are piling up. However, these consumers end up with many debt relief solutions if they are willing to look for them. Divorce, job loss, medical issues, and pay cuts are the most common reasons that people get buried in credit card debt, but there are plenty of national debt relief services that can help people of all kinds to get back on track.

Debt Relief Solutions- Lower Your Debt Payments

Credit card payments can be a scary thing for a lot of people. People aren't able to prioritize their lists, can't figure out which debts are most important, and often have mortgages and auto loans that are far more important than credit card bills. Also, these people have to live, which brings about the cost of living versus paying credit card bills every single month. Even just the minimum payments can make consumers stressed and strapped for cash, which can be a scary situation to be in. No one likes to be in financial trouble, but there are debt relief solutions that can help.

Debt Relief Solutions- Dealing with Unpaid Debt

Many consumers face debt problems at some point in their lives. Finding the options that work best for debt relief and credit repair can be quite a daunting task. It can be difficult to even determine which debt relief options are best for a consumer simply because they are undereducated about the topic and already stressed out and uncertain about their future financial situation. However, with so many different people facing debt problems these days, there are a variety of resources for consumers including debt education, debt settlement programs, credit counseling, and even bankruptcy for the most extreme cases.

Debt Relief Scams- Avoid Bankruptcy Attorneys in Disguise

The FTC (Federal Trade Commission) issued a warning in 2004 that gave consumers a heads up on attorneys that were posing as a debt relief service of some kind in order to generate business and lure in desperate consumers in need of help. All bankruptcy lawyers and law firms are referred to as debt relief agencies per the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act that was passed in 2005. This small confusion combined with effective marketing pitches that are often misleading leads a lot of people falling for the belief that they enrolled in debt counseling or settlement plans when in fact they signed up for bankruptcy filing.

Bankruptcy Alternatives- Your Debt Relief Solutions and Options

Americans by the millions face the fact that they have more debt than they can pay every single year. If you are faced with a situation where you want to find alternatives to bankruptcy, you have many things to consider. The purpose of debt relief solutions is to seek relief for consumers from financial hardships and stress, and it should not be used as a free pass to get out of debt just to do it all over again. The purpose of Epic Debt Relief is to provide you with solutions that are affordable and effective for your needs.

Debt Relief Solutions- Bankruptcy Alternatives and Avoiding Bankruptcy

Most people see bankruptcy as their very own eraser that allows them a

Debt Relief Solutions- Bankruptcy Alternatives Aren't Always the Answer

There are many situations where bankruptcy alternatives are not the desired result or solution to a money problem. The goal is to get out of debt and be able to move on with life. However, debt settlement, negotiation, and credit counseling are not right for everyone. You need to assess your situation and find the solution that works for your specific needs. Here are some common reasons that bankruptcy alternatives might not work for you or other consumers in a financial debacle:

Debt Relief Options- Credit Counseling vs. Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

There are many consumers in need of debt settlement or debt relief options. Those who look into debt settlement might also find various advantages to credit counseling or Chapter 13 bankruptcy. While the two are very similar, they have different consequences, processes, and even different end results in many cases. The general idea is to pay debts back with the help of a third party, and some companies will tell you that the negative impact that credit counseling has on your credit is just as bad to potential lenders as bankruptcy.

Debt Relief Solutions- Understanding Illinois Laws about Bankruptcy

Illinois bankruptcy laws for those residents who file Chapter 7 bankruptcy include exemptions as long as the person filing is a single person and the property is in their name only. This list is complete and anything not on this list will be liquidated if it has any value. If you are seeking more information about a specific case, you need to consult a bankruptcy lawyer for assistance.

Debt Relief Solutions- Bankruptcy is the Last Stop

There are many consumers who have so much of an obligation to their debts that they feel that there is no other plausible solution for their situation than bankruptcy. For some, this might be the only debt relief solution that will be effective. However, people who seek this option need to understand how serious it is and how serious the consequences will be before they agree to anything. Filing bankruptcy should only be done when there are no other alternatives and when the solutions that are available have been exhausted. Here are some reasons why people choose bankruptcy, along with explanations of why these may or may not be good decisions to make.

Bankruptcy Alternatives- Avoiding Bankruptcy is a Good Idea for Everyone

When people get into financial trouble, they generally look for the least destructive option that they can find to help them get back on track. This is quite obvious, and it's no wonder that so many people put bankruptcy off until the last second. Here are some of the most common reasons that people should avoid bankruptcy if they possibly can:

Debt Relief Solutions- Service Members on Active Duty Have Options

Those who are members of the armed services of the United States have a lot of things to deal with. For the ones with debt issues, seeking debt relief solutions can prove to be a challenge in most cases because they don't have the time or resources required to create financial plans or find debt relief. The family members of these people will end up facing the consequences of their debt problems if they are not resolved, but there are debt relief options for service members because of their status. One of the most helpful tools is the Soldier's and Sailor's Civil Relief Act which has been improved significantly in recent years to help military members deal with debt problems.

Credit Repair Solutions- Getting Credit Cards after Debt Relief

(Epic Debt Relief is NOT a credit repair company nor is it associated with any. The following information is for educational purposes only.)

Consumers with bad credit and those who have just completed debt relief programs understand that getting credit cards can be a very challenging task. Trying to get back on track is nearly impossible when lenders shy away from you because of your less than exemplary credit history. Lenders see that you are in debt or have recently completed a debt relief program, and tend to want nothing to do with you. Those creditors that are willing to give you a chance are probably offering astronomical interest rates that you couldn't imagine dealing with. Even worse are the consumers with no checking or savings accounts that are attempting to open new credit accounts, but all of these people have options.

Debt Relief Solutions- Bankruptcy is No Longer the Easy Way Out

Starting in 2005, consumers had a whole new set of laws and legalities to face when they chose to file bankruptcy. For many, bankruptcy was the easy solution to debt problems, and the government wanted to try to curb irresponsible behavior by making a clean start more challenging to get for those who simply overspend and want a quick fix for their credit. Now, all consumers that file for bankruptcy must go through a 6 month credit counseling program prior to filing. This will help people to determine whether this is actually an effective solution for them or not.

Debt Relief Solutions- Statute of Limitations and Your Debt

Whether consumers are attempting to handle their debts or not, there is a time period in which lawsuits can be filed and collection attempts can be made. This period is known as the Statute of Limitations and is different in every state of the U.S. However, under this law, debts cannot be collected, sued for, or otherwise sought to be paid by creditors or collectors after this period has expired. Some states offer as little as four years, while others will go up to 15 years or more depending on the type of debt and the state regulations. Collection agencies do not adhere to the same Statute of Limitations as lawsuits, and consumers will have to refer to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act to determine whether their debt Statute has expired or not.

Debt Relief Solutions - Setting Priorities to Achieve Debt Relief

Getting debt relief is a process that involves many deliberate steps. One of the most important steps in the process is to set priorities for your debts. The ones that are most important to be paid off should be listed first. You should organize them by the balance due, the interest rates, and the monthly payment that is charged as well. This will help you maintain focus in paying off your debt.

Debt Relief Solutions- Authorized Users are Affected, Too

There are three types of credit accounts: joint accounts, individual accounts, and authorized user accounts. The most common accounts are the individual ones, but some people will have joint credit accounts or authorized users on their credit cards. Joint accounts are the ones that are cosigned by two people who both are primary users on the card. They both are responsible for the balance and using the account, and they have equal privileges. An authorized user is simply a person added by the primary account holder who has access to use the account, but is limited in their privileges beyond this and they are not responsible for the financial agreement made on the credit account. For an example, a husband and wife would have a joint account for a credit line, while a teenage son or daughter might be listed as an authorized user. Authorized users can be removed so that if they are over the age of 18, their credit will not be affected by the debt settlement or relief. Cosigners cannot be taken off of credit accounts because they are considered a primary account holder.

Credit Repair and Debt Relief Solutions- Tips on Harassment from Collectors

The Fair Debt Collections Practices Act, or FDCPA, was passed in 1977 to prevent creditors and collectors from harassing consumers who were in debt. This act placed many strict regulations and guidelines on collection organizations as to what they could and could not do in order to be able to collect on the debts that people owed. Since then, not much has changed, although many fly-by-night collections groups don't follow the rules as they should. Here are some tips on what can and can't be done by collection agencies:

Repossession 101- Consumer Rights and What You Should Know

Repossession is a problem that affects a growing number of Americans every single day. Cars are the most common type of items that are repossessed, but homes and other property are also at risk. Any time that a consumer gets a secured loan and is required to offer collateral as a promise of repayment, repossession is a potential risk that people could face. The following information will help you to better understand repossessions and what is involved in the entire process, but should not be taken as legal advice because it is for informational purposes only.

Repossession 101- Consumer Rights and What You Should Know

Repossession is a problem that affects a growing number of Americans every single day. Cars are the most common type of items that are repossessed, but homes and other property are also at risk. Any time that a consumer gets a secured loan and is required to offer collateral as a promise of repayment, repossession is a potential risk that people could face. The following information will help you to better understand repossessions and what is involved in the entire process, but should not be taken as legal advice because it is for informational purposes only.

Credit Cards and Bankruptcy

Now that there is new bankruptcy legislation in place that makes it more difficult than ever for consumers to file bankruptcy, credit card companies seem to be more aggressive in seeking out new accounts. Whether this is the case or not, there are debt relief options out there for consumers.

Debt Relief Topics- Tenancy by the Entirety

Property ownership is a complicated matter and there are many different things to consider. Tenancy by the entirety is a property issue that is commonly used for married couples and in some cases, legally registered domestic partners. In a few states around the U.S, tenancy by the entirety does offer some solace to people who want to protect their assets. The law gives rights to the entire property to BOTH spouses. If one person files bankruptcy, the home is protected by the other person's name being on the loan. However, if both names are on the bankruptcy, the home is then liquidated as it would be in states without this provision. Tenancy can apply to judgment liens, other types of property, and all other forms of debt except for IRS debts.

Debt Relief Topics- Understanding Community Property

Community property states are those which have adopted laws stating that property acquired during marriage is joint property and is divided when the couple divorces, annuls the marriage, or when one spouse dies. Unless there is a specific situation, joint ownership is automatically assumed to be the case by law. Anyone who lives in one of these states is accountable for all debts that are acquired during the marriage even if their name wasn't explicitly listed on the accounts.

Bankruptcy Information- How to Avoid Liens in Debt Relief and Settlement

There are many people who face liens on a regular basis. Here are some common questions and information about liens and how to avoid them if you can:

There is a lien on my home, but I don't have the means for debt relief or settlement, so is there a way I can avoid paying the lien and be rid of it?

DIY Debt Relief- Some People Can Do It Alone

Cutting back on unnecessary expenses is the first real step to debt relief. Figure out what you are spending and stop spending where you can. Any expenses that aren't related to food (groceries, not dining out), shelter, transportation, and healthcare are not necessary. Entertainment and social spending should be stopped until debts are paid off.

Debt Relief- Rebuilding in the Aftermath

Consumers who have been successful at debt relief only have one thing left to do: rebuild the credit that was destroyed. Anyone who has completed a debt settlement or credit counseling program should be commended, because the majority of people fail when they attempt these programs. You are now on a much better path to financial stability in the future, and it is now time for you to start rebuilding your credit to get back on track. Most people find themselves lacking resources or information on how to rebuild credit when no one will give them a chance. However, even if you look for a week and only find one credit line, it's a step in the right direction.

Debt Relief Solutions- DIY Debt Reduction

Some consumers will benefit greatly from the professional services that are out there for debt relief. Others will have success in handling their own debt relief solutions. However, for those who are going to attempt it alone, there are some very important factors that must be present:

Debt Relief Solutions- Credit Counseling 101

For many people, the uncertainty that comes in seeking debt relief is more frightening than the actual process itself. Credit counseling is just one alternative that people have when it comes to paying bills or finding other means of managing their debt. Credit counselors can offer various debt management plans for consumers as well as educational resources and financial advice.

Who is Best Served by Credit Counseling? - Finding Your Debt Relief Solutions

Debt relief comes in many forms, but all consumers have one thing in common: difficulty paying off unsecured debt or a situation where they have become overwhelmed by creditors and bills that cannot be paid. There is very little else in common between debt settlement and credit counseling other than the clients. Here are some tips about who is best suited for credit counseling:

Companies Abusing Their Non-Profit Status for Debt Relief Profits

The National Consumer Law Center is a great source of information about the goings on of non-profit debt relief organizations. In many cases, these businesses abuse their position by focusing more on profit and sales than on their non-profit claim of educational services to the general public. These companies are allowed to make a profit, but there are limitations on how much they should be making and what part of their business makes up the profitable activities. The IRS mandates that the earnings of a credit counseling agency that is non-profit is limited so that the profits will not benefit any entity of the organization. Ameridebt is the best known example of this type of abuse, and was shut down by the FTC a few years ago.

Why So Much Bad Press for Not-For-Profit Debt Relief Companies?

There has been a lot of negative attention recently that is focused on non-profit debt relief companies and the abuse of their organizations. In many cases, being non-profit is required in becoming a credit counseling agency, and most companies will set up as charitable organizations or educational companies. However, there are so many companies out there, and so few who actually provide any charitable services or educational materials to clients. The IRS even cautions consumers against non-profit companies that are using their status to get around state and federal laws that are designed to protect consumers.

Debt Relief 101- Collection Companies and How to Deal with Them

There are many different types of collection agencies out there. Some are nice, pleasant to work with, and just want to help you pay off your debts. Others are aggressive, rude, and downright mean in attempting to get you to answer their calls or make payments on your account. Here are some tips that can help you negotiate with debt collectors and come out on top every time:

So Many Debt Relief Solutions, So Little Time

Consumers that have taken the time to learn about their debt settlement or relief options have probably come across dozens of different agencies and services that feature

Debt Relief and Settlement- Mistakes People Make

There are so many people in debt and a great deal of them who can no longer manage their financial situation on their own. This is the first time in history that people in America actually owe more than they earn, and it has created a great demand for financial education and debt relief solutions. Very few people understand the options that they have, and even fewer are humble enough to step up and ask for help in this situation. Here are some common mistakes that people make and how you can avoid them:

Non-Profit Debt Relief Agencies Aren't as Educational as They Should Be

The failure of non-profit debt relief companies to provide educational resources for their clients is the second most widely noted type of abuse these companies commit, according to the National Consumer Law Center. To earn the non-profit status, the IRS states that an organization has to be operated for charitable, educational, religious, scientific, or literary purposes. There are guidelines that allow non-profit groups to do things beyond this realm, but they are limited and should focus mainly on their non-profit intentions.

Non-Profit Organizations and Their Abuse of Power

There has never been a time when medical and credit card debt have been higher, which is creating a spotlight of sorts on the credit counseling and debt relief solutions that are out there. Americans are increasingly searching for debt relief solutions and the quality of the services is in question now more than ever. The credit counseling industry has grown significantly, and so has the number of less than satisfactory companies out there trying to lure clients in with their

Debt Relief Solutions- When You Don't Need Professional Services

There are millions of Americans that file bankruptcy every single year. There are also millions who go through debt relief programs and debt settlement when they have reached a point where they can do no more on their own. There are many cases, however, when consumers are able to help themselves better than any professional service could. There are a few basic steps to follow when it comes to DIY debt reduction.

Debt Relief Solutions- Finding a Credit Counseling Company that Works for YOU

It is important to understand that all consumers will have different views and opinions about the effectiveness of debt settlement and credit counseling based on their specific needs. Therefore, if consumers feel that credit counseling is what they need, they should have the information and tools necessary to choose the right agency to work with. There are many things to consider, including the variety of not-so credible companies out there who are preying on unsuspecting victims. Here are some great tips about choosing a credit counseling company to work with:

The following articles are available for you to research debt settlement and debt negotiation information. We understand that debt consolidation can be confusing at times. These articles may help to clarify the debt settlement and debt negotiation process.We strive to provide the best possible sources for your debt help needs.

Debt settlement companies come in many shapes and forms, and not every company is able to help every person. Unfortunately there are companies out there that want nothing more than your money, and as soon as they have it they will no longer provide you with the help that you need. We strive to ensure that these articles are able to provide as much information as possible so that you can avoid these types of companies.

These articles have proven themselves to be reliable and helpful about their industry. They are available to answer any questions that you may have.

Debt Relief through Credit Counseling - Failure is Common

There are many different solutions to debt relief, but credit counseling is perhaps one of the most common. Surprisingly, the majority of consumers who enroll in credit counseling programs never complete them, which might seem a little extreme. However, this high failure rate in and of itself is reason enough for people to seek other alternatives to debt relief when they have the chance. While credit counseling can be effective for some, it is rarely helpful to the many people who really need it.

Lower Divorce Rates and Find Debt Relief Solutions to Save Your Relationship

Financial problems are the number one cause of divorce in the U.S. The average person has nearly $10,000 in credit card debt, and many consumers are seeking debt relief solutions in order to relieve financial stress and help to save them from divorce. So many couples don't even talk about money, and even when they do it can be a nightmare. People have different values and spending habits, and different views on debt and credit use. In most cases, the blame game becomes more important than actually trying to figure out how to fix the problem and get back on track together.

Reduction Medical Bill

Debt Relief Solutions for Medical Debt- Part Three

Debt relief solutions are often sought for medical debt because so many people don't have insurance, and those who do don't have nearly enough coverage. Anyone who is having problems with medical debt needs to get itemized medical bills to ensure that they weren't overcharged before they file bankruptcy or seek medical debt relief solutions.

Debt Relief Solutions Explored - Credit Counseling and What You Should Know

Every debt relief solution has its own advantages and drawbacks. There are many things that need to be carefully considered before someone can enroll in the right debt relief program. Credit counseling, in particular, is the focus of this article, and is something that needs to be explored thoroughly before it is chosen as a means of debt relief.

Debt Relief Solutions for Medical Debt- Part One

The rising costs of healthcare and the increasing number of people without medical insurance are contributing to a rise in medical debt and consumers who are seeking medical debt relief. There are studies that have shown that more than four of five medical bills have errors or overcharges, but most consumers aren't able to identify them or fight them because they don't know what they are looking for. In order to find the faults, consumers must be able to get itemized bills and medical history records.

Credit Counseling Drops the Ball- Non-Profit Debt Relief Solutions Aren't Always Effective

Non-profit debt relief companies are not hard to find. These companies will advertise their non-profit status as a temptation for consumers who have a need for debt relief but an inability to pay for services that can help them to get out of debt. The reason that many consumers who are in over their heads seek bankruptcy alternatives through non-profit companies is because they promise a chance to get back on track without charging high fees, interest rates, or other charges that people cannot afford. This is often a dream come true for consumers who need help, but can quickly turn into a nightmare for those who are not prepared or informed about what credit counseling actually does.

Debt Relief Solutions for Medical Debt- Part Four

Welcome to the fourth article in the four part series about medical billing errors. This information is provided so that patients can keep their medical providers accountable for the charges on their bills and often reduce what they owe. Before medical debt relief is sought, a thorough check of medical bills needs to be performed.

Whose Interests Really Matter? - Credit Counseling Agencies Often Funded by Creditors

Most consumers know about credit counseling agencies. What most people don't know is that these companies get most of their income from creditors. That's right. Every time that someone sets up a payment plan through credit counselors, that agency gets a percentage of the payments back as profit. Consumers and financial experts alike that learn this question the intentions of the credit counseling agencies, which is not surprising. Are these companies serving consumers or are they serving creditors, and acting as collection agencies in disguise?

Debt Relief Solutions for Medical Debt- Part Two

When many people are bogged down by hospital debts, the last thing on their mind is accusing or trying to find errors with the providers of the services. However, there are many common medical billing errors made on a regular basis, and people need to ensure that they are not being overcharged before they face serious debt relief solutions for their medical debt. In many cases, patients are able to save a substantial amount of money.

Debt Relief Solutions- Debt Relief Came Right after the Creation of Credit

Dating back to the 1920s, unsecured credit lines and credit cards were issued to consumers. Once people started borrowing, they almost immediately started defaulting on their credit for various reasons. Because of this, the development of the National Foundation for Credit Counseling happened in 1951 and created some of the first formal credit counseling companies. This organization was founded to help creditors like department stores and other companies to recover the money that was owed to them from delinquent accounts and prevent consumers from having to file bankruptcy. Starting in the 80s, credit cards and the use of credit became much more popular, as did the need for credit counseling and other debt relief solutions.

Debt Relief and You- Knowing What's Best

Epic Debt Relief specializes in debt settlement and negotiation. If you seek or are in need of credit counseling or other services, you will need to find those on your own after taking the time to educate yourself on your available options for debt relief, credit repair, and other financial stabilizing tools. The information in this article is for the purpose of education only, and is not a promotion of services or a suggestion about what is right for the consumer.

FICO 101- The Company, the Scores, and More

FICO is the world's leading credit scoring company, but what does FICO stand for? FICO is the acronym for the company name: Fair Isaac Corporation. Most lenders and banks recognize this company as the leader in credit scoring and therefore use FICO scores to determine how creditworthy people are when they apply for loans and other forms of credit. The score that FICO gives any one person is based on many factors, and ultimately measures the likelihood that a person is going to pay back the credit they are extended or not.

What's in a Credit Score? - The Secret Behind Good and Bad Credit

According to FICO, the leading credit scoring agency in the world, there is a certain list of what is used to make up your credit score. FICO ratings are used by the majority of lenders and financial institutions, and the actual importance of the aspects of your credit rating may vary depending on your situation. Also, you should keep in mind that the actual score that you have is only one factor that helps determine whether you're creditworthy or not. The rules are different for every lender and every consumer depending on what their report contains, so make sure that you understand this is just a general guideline and not a concrete formula to determine creditworthiness.

Debt Relief and You- What Causes Debt?

Epic Debt Relief understands the importance of negotiating debt and seeking debt settlement options when the weight of financial stress becomes too much to bear. What causes people to seek debt relief solutions and why do you have debt in the first place, though? Here are a few common reasons that people wind up in debt. Hopefully this information will help you understand that you are not alone.

Avoid Debt Settlement or Other Problems by Paying More Each Month

Minimum payments are a consumer's best friend when it comes to credit card bills. Who doesn't want to spend $5,000 and then only have to pay $100 a month in order to keep the account current? However, in 2006, the system changed so insignificantly that more people are paying down their bills without even realizing it. The OCC, or the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, is the group that regulates national banks. They are in charge of regulating the required minimum payment percentage that people are required to pay on their monthly credit card bills. They ordered this percentage to be doubled in order to help consumers get out of debt faster. So many consumers get hooked on just getting by with that minimum payment that they wanted to take it upon themselves to help people.

Debt Settlement and Negotiation for Complete Debt Relief

Debt relief requires a behavior change. You cannot change your life, your financial future, or anything else without changing your attitude and your behavior. You can't have a different life if you keep making the same choices. Another element that comes with debt solutions is effort. You have to be willing to work for your financial stability. You are the one that got yourself into the debt, and it takes your effort and commitment to get out of that debt. No one is going to do it for you. Even if they do, they cannot keep you out of debt in the future. That is up to you.

Debt Relief Strategies - Snowballing Your Debt

PaymentsDave Ramsey, a national radio host, is a promoter of the snowball method of paying off credit card debt. It's fairly effective for what it is worth, and can be the perfect solution for those people who need credit card debt relief. Here is a glimpse of what is involved and expected of you when it comes to snowballing your credit card payments.

Debt Relief Tips and Suggestions - What You Should Know

For most people, getting out of debt is much more difficult than getting into it. When you take the time to check out all of the different debt settlement programs and credit repair services that are available, you might think that it can be simple. However, even with the most professional and experienced people on your side, it is still no walk through the park. The first and most important step in debt settlement and financial stability through debt relief is simple:

Bankruptcy and You- Understanding Credit Cards and Credit

Bankruptcy reform has made it more difficult than ever for people to file bankruptcy and enjoy being able to just get rid of credit card debt when they cannot afford it. However, this increase in difficulty when it comes to debt relief has led to credit card companies that are more aggressive than ever before. There is a great debate among the ABA, or American Bankers Association, about who is to blame for credit card debt and so many bankruptcy cases being filed. The lenders blame the consumers, while some blame the creditors for being too aggressive.

Say Goodbye to Bad Credit Card Debt

Here's Why!

When you work with services like Epic Debt Relief, there is no guarantee on improving your credit, only that our services will help you to settle your debt, sometimes for less than you owe, and sometimes not. You need to fully understand this in order to be prepared for finding the best solutions for bad credit card debt resolution.

You Know the Repo Man?

Understanding Repossession Debt

Often, repossessions can be negotiated down significantly. Everyone has different circumstances, and there are debt settlement and negotiation options for all. However, each situation is different and the settlement plan will be different, as well. There are many options for getting rid of repo debt, including the following:

Settle or Negotiate Your Debt Today

While bankruptcy lasts for up to 10 years, debt settlement and negotiation can provide a much more short-term impact on your credit report, allowing you to get back to life. Why should you negotiate or settle your debt? Here are four great reasons why:

Credit counseling is a service that is very different from debt settlement. Customers will make payments to the counseling agency on a monthly basis. Their payments are then distributed to the creditors based on the plan set up between the consumer and the credit counseling agency. These plans generally last up to 5 years, and the interest rates will be lower than what consumers are used to paying for their credit cards. The savings can be larger because of the reduced interest rates, and counseling is also offered to help with budgeting, spending, and debt.

Epic Debt Relief is a debt settlement company. We do not work with credit counseling, so this article is simply designed to offer information so that consumers can make educated decisions about their debt settlement and negotiation options. There are a variety of things that need to be considered when it comes to the debate between debt settlement and credit counseling. The situation is different for everyone, and will be up to you to determine.

Understanding Bankruptcy and Your Alternatives

If you are a consumer that is considering Bankruptcy, it is very important to understand all of your options and the potential implications and benefits of each. If your goal is to avoid bankruptcy, a debt settlement program could be a viable option for you. It is important to understand that in some occasional circumstances consumers that were enrolled in a debt a settlement program may have ultimately decided to pursue a bankruptcy.

Debt Consolidation

There are many ways one can define debt consolidation because in recent years many different types of programs have been developed to manage debt. Debt consolidation typically entails taking out a single loan in order to pay off many others. The benefits of consolidating all your debt is not only to simplify your payments, but more importantly to reduce or lower your interest rates to save a tremendous amount of money and in some cases even gain a tax deduction on the interest paid. The purpose of this information is to provide you with multiple and similar debt consolidation options in order to help you decide what program is best suited for you.

Debt settlement and Consolidation Program

Why It Works!

If you find yourself facing a serious financial crisis, improving your situation can prove to be a very difficult task. Most people aren't armed without enough knowledge to make the best possible decision regarding how to handle their situation. There are many programs and thousands of companies you might stumble upon offering different programs to pay off your debts.

With a little commitment it is possible to reduce your debts independently. It is not always necessary to discuss your situation with a debt counselor or enroll in some type of debt consolidation program if you follow a few general guidelines for debt reduction.

Credit Card Debt Settlement FAQ's

How does your credit card debt settlement program work?

Once an agreed settlement is attained, we will contact you with the terms of the settlement and with your approval authorize Global Client Solutions to distribute the funds from your trust account in accordance with the settlement agreement. This process continues with each creditor until the program is complete and all of your eligible debts placed in the program are

These days, many consumers find themselves in difficult situation: they have amassed a large amount of credit card debt, and they see little or no hope to solve their problem.

If that situation sounds like yours, don't give up hope. There are many ways for you to get a handle on your credit card debt, and even begin to reduce or settle it, so you can get back on your financial feet.

As a college student, it can be difficult to make financial ends meet. Many students rely on credit cards to finance their expenses. Unfortunately, many college students build up large amounts of credit card debt in the process.

Debt Settlement: Who Is A Good Candidate?

The focus of this article is to explore the criteria we use when identifying likely potential candidates for debt settlement.

In accordance with our ethical business practices and in the interest of full disclosure, we are obligated to state up front that debt settlement is not an ideal solution for every consumer. With that said, for those consumers who do qualify, debt settlement can be an honest, honorable solution to their financial challenges.

Typical Debt Settlement Fee Structures

Many consumers who are considering debt settlement are concerned about the their debt settlement program's fee structure. Some individuals prefer for the fee to be flat, so they can predict the cost of their debt settlement service before they enroll.

Can Credit Card Companies Sue Me For My Credit Card Debt?

It's a common question. The unfortunate truth is that yes, credit card companies can sue you to collect on credit card debt that you owe them.

It is often surprising and disconcerting when people receive notice that they are being sued by a credit card company or other creditor to collect on a debt.

Bankruptcy and Credit Card Debt

If you have found yourself facing out-of-control credit card debt that you are unable to repay, you may be considering relieving your debt by filing for bankruptcy.

Although bankruptcy is generally considered a drastic, last-resort measure, for some people, it is a viable debt management solution.

How To Avoid Bankruptcy Through Direct Settlement Of Credit Card Debt

It's alarming but true: once consumers allow personal debt to accumulate beyond their ability to repay, the problem can quickly escalate into a serious financial crisis. And with credit card debt at record levels, and millions of new credit card accounts opened every year, it's no surprise that so many consumers find themselves in desperate circumstances, with little hope of repaying their obligations on their own.

Are Any Debt Settlement Companies Ethical?

The global economic crisis is wreaking havoc on consumers, particularly those struggling with debt.

In fact, nearly 50% of American consumers are facing a financial challenge of some sort, including high credit card debt, mortgages or home equity loan balances, or some other unsecured debt. No matter the debt, many consumers have fallen behind, and find themselves in dire straits.

Are Debt Settlement Companies a Smart Choice?

In these challenging economic times, many people are struggling to manage financial debt burdens. No one ever wants to go into debt, but in some situations it can be unavoidable, such as unemployment, medical emergencies, divorce, or any unexpected financial need.

Are Companies Offering Debt Settlement Real Or Fraudulent?

Whenever large amounts of money are up for grabs, the potential for fraudulent activities increases. Today, unfortunately, many people around the country have fallen into debt and are searching for a way to solve their financial problems. That situation has attracted fraudulent activity to the debt settlement industry.

The Risk You Take When Defaulting On Credit Card Debt

Law Suits, Judgments, Garnishments, Etc.....

It's a common question. The unfortunate truth is that yes, credit card companies can sue in order to collect on credit card debt that is owed to them.

It is often surprising and disconcerting when people receive notice that they are being sued by a credit card company or other creditor to collect on a debt.

What Is a Debt Settlement Company?

Do you feel your finances have spiraled out of control?
Are you living month to month, pay check to pay check?
Are creditors harassing you?
There is a solution and you don't have to hide or avoid your situation. Help is available for consumers in the same situation. Feeling defenseless because of overwhelming and unmanageable debt load is quite common, but millions of Americans are in the same situation. Options, such as debt settlement, can give you the financial help and peace of mind knowing a trained certified debt negotiator will handle the settlement process and get you back on track.

New FTC Legislation On The Horizon for Debt Settlement Programs

In 2005 U.S consumer debt had reached epic proportions and no federal law existed to regulate the credit counseling or debt settlement services -- the companies promising to help debtors pay off their bills or settle their debt. Consumers found themselves having no protection or any legal course of action.

Find Credit Card Debt Relief with Debt Settlement

Debt can overwhelm and consume anyone. It's how you approach the problem that really matters. Declaring bankruptcy is an option, but most people prefer to avoid such a costly and embarrassing remedy, and one that will affect your credit report for 7 to 10 years. If your mind set is that of which prefers to avoid bankruptcy, why not look into debt settlement?

Do Debt Settlement Programs Really Work?

Are your bills unmanageable and no longer affordable? Are collectors calling on a daily basis? Have you suffered from a job loss or had a reduction in income? Do you desperately want to get out of this financial mess before it gets worse?
If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, debt settlement may be the most effective and least expensive way for you

Establishing Credit After Debt Settlement

You Have Completed Your Debt Negotiation Program, So What Is Next? Your debts have all been settled, and you have successfully avoided bankruptcy, so where do I go from here? There should be three top priorities after debt negotiation: 1) Avoid being overwhelmed by debt again 2) start build up a savings account and 3) work on building up your credit again.

Debt Negotiation with a Prior Bankruptcy

More specifically, if you've filed Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in the past 7 years, you may be out of luck. The main draw of debt negotiation for creditors is that they can recover a substantial portion of a bad debt that otherwise could and/or would be completely wiped out by bankruptcy. Unfortunately, if you've filed bankruptcy in the past 2 years, then you can't file again for another 5 years, so a creditor loses some of the incentive to negotiate a balance.\

Debt Negotiation and the Importance of your Recent Account Activity

This plays into your hardship in a sense because it's all about whether the creditor feels you've been fraudulent in your business activity with them. For example, if you just made a high ticket purchase on your credit card a month ago, I'd think twice about doing debt negotiation.

Debt Negotiation and the Importance of your Hardship

Believe it or not, creditors are human. If your enrollment in a debt negotiation program is the direct result of circumstances that you could not control (divorce, medical issues, job loss) and you can document it, then you're far more likely to get a favorable settlement versus a person who the creditor feels could have paid the debt back in full.

The Importance of your Creditors in Debt Negotiation

As one should expect, each bank deals with debt negotiation in a different manner than the next. While almost every creditor does in fact settle, some creditors are more antagonistic than the rest.

So what Causes a Creditor to Pursue Legal Action?

That's the million dollar question which is impossible to answer, but we do know that attorneys generally get involved in two types of circumstances:

Debt negotiation and the Importance of Program Length

In any debtor-credit scenario, a creditor is reserved the right to sue a debtor in court if they are not paying according to the terms stipulated. Although creditors may choose to settle, legal action does occur to debt settlement clients. This does not mean we cannot settle it, but the.....

Debt Negotiation

Understanding Credit Card Debt Negotiation Services

A relatively new industry, some consumers are unclear about the dynamics behind debt negotiation. Debt negotiation is the process by which a company negotiates with a credit card company to attempt to get them to agree settle a debt that a consumer owes for less than he or she owes. In some cases, when a settlement program is successful, a debt negotiation client may be able to save thousands off their balances as a result of settling their debts, helping them pave the way to financial freedom.

Save with Debt Negotiation
What Debts Are Not Eligible for Debt Negotiation?
Secured Debt

As a general rule, anything that is secured, or has some type of real asset underlying the loan cannot be negotiated. Mortgages and Auto loans are the most common secured debts. A negotiation in these instances is is impossible, because the lender can seize the property backing the loan if you choose not to make your payments. In some instances, a lender might agree to modify the terms of the financial agreement, but it must make sense financially in order for them to do so.

Need Debt Relief
Determining if You Need Debt Relief

Before making any decisions or entering any programs, an individual should first take a step back and access their financial situation. It is essential to have a thorough understanding of your income and expenses each month so that you can effectively budget for the future. You can determine the health of your financial situation. Listed below are different percentages of monthly income that should be used towards paying different expenses.

Debt Settlement Program
"The Benefits Of Debt Settlement"

This purpose of this writing is to enlighten people as to what the benefits are of using a debt settlement program as their means to escape a bad debt problem. Many people do not fully understand how they can personally and financially benefit from the process.

Debt Relief Company
How to Choose a Debt Relief or Debt Settlement Company

Like many industries, the debt relief business has attracted some companies that haven't operated using the industry's best practices or with the customer's best interest in mind. It is imperative for you to educate yourself before choosing who to work with for your debt relief needs.

Debt Negotiation Savings
Why can't I open my own Savings Account for Debt Negotiation?

Often many customers are concerned about another company having the ability to monitor their accounts. People might ask if they would be better off saving in their own account.

Credit Counseling
Creditor Terms, Not Yours

Credit counseling is a debt management program where you engage a credit counseling agency to negotiate with your creditors on your behalf at an interest rate lower than you are currently being charged. The credit counselors refer to the terms dictated by the creditors to determine the payments or interest reductions that will be offered.

Bankruptcy
It's Difficult to Qualify and May Still Leave You with Large Debts

While bankruptcy is still an option, filing for bankruptcy is now a more difficult process due largely to the bankruptcy Abuse and Prevention Act which became effective October 17, 2005. These laws require that consumer clear certain hurdles before filing, and take an approved Financial Counseling Course within the six months before filing.

Credit Card Minimum Monthly Payments
Creditors Benefit, Not You

If you continue on your current path of making your minimum monthly credit card payments, it could easily take you decades to pay the debt off and cost you an alarming amount of money. A downward financial spiral can occur if one credit card is used to make payments on another.

Do Nothing
Idleness Stops Nothing

To do nothing is precisely that. Doing nothing about your unsecured debt will not improve your situation or make your debts disappear. In fact, if you are currently late on your payments, your credit score will already be adversely affected.

Can A Debt Settlement Program Work For Me?

Over the past three years since late 2005 millions of Americans are finding that dealing with the seemingly never ending minimum payments which we refer to as the, "Credit Treadmill", is becoming more and more impossible to maintain. The current national average credit card debt per person exceeds $9,000. This debt amount is high and makes you wonder how someone can get so deep into debt, you might ask "don't they pay attention to their statements"?

Bad Credit Card Debt
Fix Your Bad Credit Card Debt

The most important components of your credit are payment history and total debt owed, combining for nearly 65 percent of your credit rating. There are several additional factors on your credit report that creditors or lenders will look at to determine your credit-worthiness. Below, you will find 5 additional factors that can impact your credit.

Why Debt Settlement?
Working on Your Behalf

There are several advantages to debt settlement and working with a debt settlement company. A debt settlement company works on your behalf.

Debt Settlement
Debt Relief With You in Mind

A debt settlement or debt negotiation program is an approach that represents you, not your creditors. It is also an effective alternative to bankruptcy.

Debt Consolidation
Pooling Debts Into One Loan

A debt consolidation program involves taking out one loan to pay off multiple debts. Debt consolidation allows you to include unsecured debt such as credit cards, department store cards, personal loans, past due medical bills, past due utility bills and IRS bills. This debt relief option involves negotiating a lower interest rate for you, but not always. Making one consolidated monthly payment disbursed to each of your creditors may still mean you're paying the full principal.

In today's economy, millions of people have lost sight of their dream. Financial freedom may seem unattainable due to an unforeseen downward spiral caused by debt. You may be among the many American households dealing with mounting credit card debt. Fortunately, you do have options for debt relief which can help you achieve financial freedom.