What is the difference between debt settlement and debt consolidation?

Debt settlement and debt consolidation are two different ways of dealing with debt. In debt settlement, you negotiate with your creditor to lower the amount of money that you owe. You and your creditor will meet to discuss a lower balance that you can pay in order to settle the debt. The creditor will usually accept the lesser amount as payment in full and the debt will be removed from your credit report. Debt consolidation, on the other hand, does not involve negotiation with creditors. Instead, it combines all of your debts into one loan. You will often have a lower interest rate, making it easier to pay the loan back. Instead of having multiple payments to multiple creditors, you only have one loan payment to make each month. Debt settlement can be a better option if you’re unable to make all of your payments, but it can also negatively affect your credit. Debt consolidation, on the other hand, does not affect your credit score and it’s relatively easy to pay off. In Nebraska, debt settlement is governed by the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, which protects consumers from predatory debt collectors. Debt consolidation, however, is not regulated by this law, so you should do research to find the best option for you.

Related FAQs

Is debt settlement a good way to reduce debt?
What should I do if a creditor refuses to negotiate a debt settlement?
How can I monitor my progress during a debt settlement process?
What are the potential consequences of a failed debt settlement?
What is the average time frame for debt settlement negotiations?
Are there any discounts available for debt settlement?
Are there any legal risks associated with debt settlement?
What is debt settlement law?
Do I need to hire a lawyer to negotiate a debt settlement?
How do I know if a debt settlement company is legitimate?

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