Top 10 Debt Settlement Companies in 2023
With consumer debt at an all-time high, many Americans are turning to debt settlement companies for help. Debt settlement, also known as debt arbitration or debt negotiation, is the process of negotiating with creditors to settle debts for less than what is owed. This can be an attractive option for consumers who are unable to keep up with minimum payments on credit cards, medical bills, and other unsecured debts.
When searching for a trustworthy debt settlement company, reputation and results are key. The debt settlement process itself involves fees, negotiations, and credit score impacts, so consumers should research companies thoroughly before signing up. To help, here is a list of the top 10 debt settlement companies of 2023 based on reputation, transparency, fees, and more.
1. National Debt Relief
Founded in 2009, National Debt Relief is one of the largest and most reputable debt settlement companies. They claim to have resolved over $12 billion in debt and have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Their debt settlement program involves opening an FDIC-insured account where you save money that will later go towards negotiated settlements. National Debt Relief charges average fees of 15-25% of enrolled debt but allows for flexible payment plans.
2. Freedom Debt Relief
As one of the largest debt settlement companies, Freedom Debt Relief has resolved over $15 billion in debt since 2002. They have an A rating from the BBB and charge average fees of 15-25% of the total enrolled debt. Their debt settlement program focuses on negotiating with each creditor individually. Customers save into a separate account and Freedom handles all negotiations.
3. CuraDebt
CuraDebt is trusted for its emphasis on customer service in the debt settlement process. Founded in 2000, they have resolved over $5 billion in debt. CuraDebt charges fees between 15-25% on average and will provide progress reports throughout the negotiation process. Their customer support reputation and pay-as-you-go fee structure make CuraDebt a solid choice.
4. ClearOne Advantage
ClearOne Advantage is a newer debt settlement company founded in 2014 but with an excellent BBB rating. Their debt negotiation experts have settled over $2 billion in debt. ClearOne has a unique “no hidden fees” policy, charges between 15-25% on average, and allows for a 100% money-back guarantee. Their focus on transparency makes them one of the top debt settlement companies.
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5. Guardian Debt Relief
As debt settlement experts since 2011, Guardian Debt Relief resolves around $100 million in debt annually. They are very transparent about their debt negotiation process and Upfront settlements policy. Guardian Debt Relief charges 18-25% in fees on average and has an A+ rating from the BBB. Their “no upfront fee” policy helps them stand out.
6. Pacific Debt
Founded in 2002, Pacific Debt provides both debt settlement and consolidation services. They claim to have resolved over $1 billion in debt with 85% settlement success rate. Pacific Debt charges average fees of around 15% but also provides free consultations. Their long history combined with debt consolidation services makes them a strong overall choice.
7. Accredited Debt Relief
Since 2011, Accredited Debt Relief has settled over $1 billion in debt for customers. They have an A rating from the BBB and charge average fees of 15-25% on total debt enrolled. Accredited focuses on customer education throughout the debt settlement process. Their long track record and flexible plans bring peace of mind.
8. Oak View Law Group
The Oak View Law Group debt settlement company handles negotiation using attorneys. This legal expertise allows them to analyze creditors’ outstanding debts and negotiate effectively. Since its founding in 2012, Oak View settles around $250 million annually in debt. They charge average fees of 15% of total debt.
9. Century Debt Advisors
Century Debt Advisors is a debt settlement company with a strong reputation and customized client plans. Founded in 2002, they have resolved billions in consumer debt. Century Debt Advisors charges between 15-20% in fees on average. Their long history, reasonable fees, and tailored debt settlement process makes them a great choice.
10. Second Start Financial
Second Start Financial is a newer debt settlement company, that is quickly gaining popularity. They have a 97% success rate for completed settlements and an A+ rating from the BBB. Second Start has resolved over $250 million in debt so far. They charge average fees of 15-25% and offer a 100% money-back guarantee. Their record of success makes them a rising debt settlement leader.
The debt settlement process can seem daunting, but finding a reputable company is the first step. The top 10 debt settlement companies of 2023 have shown clients excellent results in reducing or resolving debt through strategic negotiations. Comparing customer reviews, fees, and BBB ratings makes choosing the right company for your unique financial situation much easier.
