Debt Settlement – Can it Really Eliminate Your Debt?

Well, the short answer is, yes – debt settlement can most certainly eliminate your debt.  As a matter of fact, the process of debt settlement has assisted many people in their attempt to avoid bankruptcy and successfully become free from debt. Before we get ahead of ourselves, however, let’s take a closer look at debt settlement (debt negotiation) so that you may have a clear understanding of the entire process.

Debt settlement is a practice whereby most creditors will accept less than the full balance owed them, as settlement in full – usually less than 50% of the outstanding debt. Prior to a creditor accepting – or even reviewing – a settlement agreement, however, your accounts must be in a delinquent status. Many individuals don’t even look at their options until their accounts are already delinquent, but there are also some people who find that they’re at the end of their rope and simply can no longer juggle their bills, and ultimately rob Peter to pay Paul. Let’s face it; that gets old real fast.

So, if you’re considering debt settlement, it’s important to understand that your credit score may be affected by the process. While I don’t necessarily agree, some people would rather struggle month after month, in order to retain a decent credit score. Others, on the other hand, don’t have a choice and must choose a path to become free from debt. If you’re facing this situation, and wondering how long your credit will be affected, the answer really depends on your ability to accumulate sufficient funds to offer your creditors as payment in full. Usually, people’s credit scores are better than acceptable to obtain a conforming mortgage within 6-12 months after settling all of their debts. Better yet, most people find that their credit score has reached the “golden” 700 range within 12-18 months of completing a debt settlement program. Of course if you become a client, we believe in being proactive to ensure that your account status is updated with the major credit bureaus sooner rather than later, therefore, Donaldson Williams forwards your settlement documentation free of charge, to all three credit reporting agencies, as well as a request to update your records immediately following a settlement.

You may also be wondering just how much money you can save through debt settlement. Normally, people save anywhere from 30% to 60% of what they originally owed their creditors. There is a bit of fluctuation in this range due to the fact that different creditors have different policies and programs relating to debt settlement. Also, many debt settlement firms charge quite significant fees. In order to save the most amount of money possible, shop around and find an ethical company whose fees aren’t outrageous. Also, be sure to get a verbal estimate during your initial consultation, of what type of settlement amounts you can expect, based on who your creditors are. Most debt settlement firms have a pretty good idea of what percentage each creditor typically accepts.

Keep in mind that debt settlement may result in a tax liability also. You see, the IRS requires that creditors report the forgiven debt on form 1099. In turn, you also must report the canceled debt as income – unless you were classified as “insolvent” at the time you actually settled your debt. In order to qualify for this classification, your liabilities must exceed your assets, which is highly likely if you’re buried deep in debt. If this is the case, you will likely not face a tax liability. If you’re not sure where you stand, contact your tax professional to get a clearer understanding of the insolvency rule.

While debt settlement is no “walk in the park,” it is a very viable alternative to bankruptcy, and can assist you in eliminating your debt once and for all. If you take a moment to “fast forward” a few years (or very possibly months), you’ll see that there will be no more sleepless nights, headaches, anxiety or concern over financial worries. Rather, you can start to enjoy life again, and your debt will be a thing of the past.

If you should have any questions, or need assistance, feel free to contact us. For a free consultation, click here. Remember, Donaldson Williams, Inc. charges absolutely no monthly fee and no set-up costs because we work on a contengency basis, and you don't pay a fee for our services until after a satisfactory settlement has been reached with your creditor(s).