Massive debt can feel almost impossible to pay off. This is what makes many people turn to debt relief programs for help, but debt relief programs can come with benefits and risks. Knowing what to expect and how to detect scams is vital for protecting yourself from further financial struggles. If your debt is leading to bankruptcy, then try asking a Chattanooga bankruptcy attorney for guidance.
BENEFITS AND RISKS OF DEBT RELIEF PROGRAMS
The benefits of using a debt relief program may not be what they seem. Many debt relief companies make claims about the benefits they can offer. These claims include helping you reduce, renegotiate, or settle the massive debt you owe.
Be wary about exaggerated claims made by debt relief programs. If something sounds too good to be true, that might actually be the case. When you start exploring the potential risks of debt settlement programs, you start to see this more and more. Some of these risks include:
- Paying high fees for debt relief services
- Creditors refusing to work with the debt relief company
- Creditors filing a lawsuit against you
- Built-up penalties with your debt
- Lowering your credit score
One of the most dangerous risks of using a debt relief company is falling deeper into debt than before. The main issue is that debt relief programs cannot guarantee that all your debt can be settled. They may tell you to stop paying your debt and start putting your money into their savings account, but this plan may not always work.
The main obstacle is that most creditors will not give you a pass on missing payments, even if you are going through a debt relief service. Creditors will still charge late fees and penalty interest rates and may take legal action against you.
BEST DEBT RELIEF PROGRAMS AVAILABLE
If you are considering debt relief programs because you feel like there is no other option, then consider some of the best ones available. Some of the best debt relief programs are National Debt Relief, CuraDebt, and Freedom Debt Relief. Researching these programs yourself is vital for protecting yourself from scams. Other options that can help with debt relief include:
- Debt counseling
- Debt consolidation
- Debt settlement
- Filing for bankruptcy
Some low-income government assistance programs can also help with debt. These include the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, and unemployment benefits programs. Whether you qualify depends on your financial circumstances like income and other financial resources.
Explore every option before giving up on paying off your debt. Consider reaching out to an experienced bankruptcy lawyer if you think bankruptcy might be the only option you have left. There are various bankruptcy options available to choose from.
BANKRUPTCY ATTORNEY IN Chattanooga, TN
Facing bankruptcy can be stressful and overwhelming. Do not hesitate to contact us at Tom Bible Law by dialing (423) 690-7712 for a consultation today to explore your financial options. Our experienced Tennessee bankruptcy lawyers can work with you to find ways to escape your financial situation through bankruptcy. We serve clients throughout the Tennessee cities of Chattanooga and Tullahoma.