Most people looking for debt help are under stress, and bad actors know it. These warning signs should end the conversation immediately.
- They ask for any fee before settling a debt. That is illegal for telemarketed debt relief.
- They guarantee a specific result, percentage, or timeline.
- They claim to be a "government program" or affiliated with a federal agency.
- They promise your credit score will improve during settlement.
- They tell you to stop talking to your creditors without explaining the risks.
- They pressure you to sign today.
What a legitimate company does
It explains fees, timelines, credit impact, lawsuit risk, and tax consequences before you enroll. It lets you keep control of the money in your dedicated account and lets you cancel. You can check complaints through your state attorney general and the CFPB.
This guide is general information, not legal, tax, or financial advice.