How do I know if a debt settlement company is legitimate?

In North Carolina, debt settlement companies must be registered with the Secretary of State in order to legally operate. Before signing up with a debt settlement company, it is important to do your research. Verify that the company is legitimate by checking the North Carolina Secretary of State’s website to ensure the company is registered and in good standing. Additionally, some states require debt settlement companies to be licensed. If this is the case, contact the North Carolina Department of Financial Institutions to check if the company holds a valid license. Further, check if the debt settlement company is listed on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website and look for customer reviews. Be wary of companies with poor ratings and numerous customer complaints. It is also helpful to contact the company and ask questions to make sure they offer the services you need. When speaking with an agent, determine how long they’ve been in business and if they have experience dealing with cases like yours. Lastly, ask if they are members of any professional associations such as the National Association of Certified Credit Counselors (NACCC), the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC), or the Association of Settlement Companies (TASC).

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How do I know if a debt settlement company is legitimate?

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