Debt Settlement: Steps to Successfully settle Debt
Quick Answer:
Debt settlement (also called debt negotiation or debt relief) is the process of working with creditors or collection agencies to reach a mutually agreeable settlement for outstanding debts. Debt negotiation aims to make the repayment terms more manageable for the debtor. It can be a viable alternative to bankruptcy and other forms of debt relief for debtors who are struggling to make their payments.
What types of settlements might creditors make?
Creditors may make different types of settlements, depending on the circumstances of the debt and the creditor’s resources. Some examples of settlements that creditors might make include:
Lump-sum payment: The creditor may agree to settle the debt for a single payment that is less than the full amount owed.
Payment plan: The creditor may agree to a payment plan that allows the debtor to pay off the debt over time, often with reduced interest rates or fees.
Reduced interest rates: The creditor may agree to reduce the interest rate on the debt, making it easier for the debtor to pay off the debt over time.
Debt forgiveness: In some cases, the creditor may agree to forgive a portion of the debt, reducing the amount that the debtor owes.
Extended repayment period: The creditor may agree to extend the repayment period for the debt, giving the debtor more time to pay off the debt in full.
The type of settlement that a creditor is willing to make will depend on a variety of factors, including the amount of the debt, the debtor’s financial situation, and the creditor’s policies and procedures. It is important for debtors to work with their creditors to find a mutually agreeable settlement that allows them to pay off their debts in a manageable and sustainable way.
Benefits of Debt Settlement
There are many benefits to debt negotiation. Here are just a few:
Reduced debt: Debt negotiation can result in a significant reduction in the amount of debt you owe.
Avoid bankruptcy: By reducing your debt, you can avoid the need to file for bankruptcy.
Lower interest rates: Debt negotiation can also result in lower interest rates, which can make your monthly payments more manageable.
Reduced stress: Debt negotiation can help reduce the stress and anxiety associated with debt.
Disadvantages:
While debt settlement can be an effective way to manage outstanding debts, it also has several potential disadvantages. Here are a few possible disadvantages of debt settlement:
Negative impact on credit score: Debt settlement can hurt your credit score, as it involves settling debts for less than the full amount owed. Even though a creditor is willing to negotiate, they can still report it as late every month that you don’t pay the full amount. Or they may mark it as “paid in full, settled for less” which is also a derogatory mark.
Tax consequences: Debt settlement can have tax consequences, as the IRS considers canceled debt to be taxable income. This means that debtors may be required to pay taxes on the amount of debt that is forgiven or canceled, even if they do not receive any cash from the creditor.
Source:
High fees: If you decide to hire a debt settlement company, some have very high fees which may make it not even worth it. It’s important that you carefully research and compare the fees and services offered by different debt settlement companies before choosing one to work with.
Exceptions:
Most of the above information is based on settling with the original creditor. You can also negotiate with collection agents and then some of the disadvantages don’t apply. For example, it’s no longer going to hurt your credit score because it’s already been charged off and sent to a collector. In other words, the damage has already been done.
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What to Expect During the Process
Here are the typical steps involved in the debt negotiation process:
Contact your creditors: The first step is to contact your creditors and let them know you are having trouble and need to make some sort of arrangement.
Explain your situation: Some may require you to provide your financial information, such as your income and expenses, to help them determine what they can offer. Others may be willing to talk with a simple “I can’t afford it anymore”.
Negotiate: You need to be honest, and realistic about the arrangements you’re trying to make.
Make your payments: Once a settlement amount is agreed upon, get the terms in writing. It’s imperative that you stick to the payments that you agreed to.
Keep in mind, nobody is obligated to settle. We have found that most will, but don’t be surprised if one or two creditors aren’t willing to negotiate.
FAQs About Debt Settlement
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