Debt settlement - Does it work?

By: Alexander Maletin
Many people resign themselves to the idea that their debt situation is out of control and that there is no hope. Most assume that their only option is to talk to a lawyer about filing for bankruptcy protection. Many consumers are just plain scared of the bill collectors that continually bother them. Collection agencies want you to believe that you will face serious problems - from garnishment to seizure of property.

What most people fail to realize is that for these actions to be enforceable they must first take you to court. This fear drives many to seek out the possibility of filing for bankruptcy. The debt settlement process can prove beneficial, but it needs to be understood, and that it is even possible.

Your creditors don't really want to take you to court. It is expensive for one. Besides, even if they win, it can be difficult for them to collect from you. If they were to garnish your monthly income, you could simply move jobs and they would have to start the process all over again. Going to court is not free, they will face legal fees that have to be paid whether they win or not. Creditors don't want to spend more money. That's why they are usually agreeable to settle debts.

In most cases a creditor or collection agency is happy to take a reduced amount. In many cases debts never get collected, and the negative credit remains on the debtor's credit report. From this point a creditor tries to just get something rather than nothing. If you file for a bankruptcy in most cases the creditor will not get anything from you. They would rather collect something than nothing so they do have an incentive to work with you under that tough attitude they give.

You will save time if you are not answering the phone, arguing with creditors. Trying to negotiate with collectors your own can be a big time waster. You will also save time in getting out of debt. If you decide to never pay off the bills, your bills will stick with you for at least five years if not longer. If you settle your debts using the services of a debt negotiation company you can be out of debt in three years if not sooner.

Debt negotiation is mostly for unsecured debts such as personal loans, credit cards, medical bills, bad checks and hospital bills. If you stop paying your mortgage or auto loan payment, the creditor will probably foreclose on your home, or repossess your vehicle whatever the case may be. With unsecured debt, there is no security and nothing to take from you.



About The Author:
Alexander Maletin is a writer and online publisher. Visit his debt settlement site at http://www.debtexpertusa.com