15 Best Debt Relief Programs: Pros, Cons, And What Sets Each Apart

Hooked by the weight of debt and wondering which help to trust? You’re not alone. The best debt relief programs in the U.S. right now offer everything from fast sign-up options to personalized support, depending on what you need most. In this guide, you’ll find the pros, cons, and what makes each program stand out in 2025.

Table: 15 Best Debt Relief Companies Compared

Company Name	Pros	Cons	What Makes It Stand Out
National Debt Relief	Helps with large debts, easy process, no upfront fees	Not available in all states	Highly trusted and well-known across the U.S.
Freedom Debt Relief	Fast enrollment, flexible options, lots of experience	Can hurt credit score	Best if you want to get started quickly
Pacific Debt Relief	Personalized customer support, negotiates well	Limited state coverage	Ideal for one-on-one guidance
Accredited Debt Relief	Offers multiple relief options, customized plans	Fees vary by individual case	Flexible, with both consolidation and negotiation options
First Advantage Debt Relief	Competitive fees, clear terms	Not nationwide	Known for being honest, simple, and easy to work with
CuraDebt	Handles large debts and tax issues	Not ideal for small debt cases	Great for people who owe both credit and IRS debts
New Era Debt Solutions	Fast settlements, no upfront fees	Limited to certain states	Strong results and real savings
DMB Financial	Custom plans for credit cards	Customer service not always consistent	Best for tackling credit card debt
ClearOne Advantage	No upfront charges, helpful dashboard	Lacks strong educational resources	Helps lower monthly payments quickly
Century Support Services	Has a mobile app, transparent progress tracking	Doesn’t handle secured debt	Best for people who like to track everything digitally
GreenPath Financial Wellness	Nonprofit, includes free budgeting tools	Less aggressive in negotiation	Best for long-term money management and education
InCharge Debt Solutions	Free counseling, nonprofit status	Monthly fees may apply to some programs	Good if you want to build better financial habits
Americor	Quick settlements, credit monitoring included	Marketing can feel pushy	Offers a full platform beyond just debt relief
Consolidated Credit	Educational support, helps with smaller debts	May take longer to reduce balances	Excellent if you’re new to debt relief
DebtWave Credit Counseling	Nonprofit with personal support	Limited state coverage	Combines strong counseling with a caring team

Table of Contents

National Debt Relief

One of the most recognized names in the industry, National Debt Relief is known for its solid track record.

Pros

No upfront fees
Accredited by major financial bodies
Offers a satisfaction guarantee

Cons

Doesn’t cover secured debts
Only works with clients owing more than $10,000

What Sets It Apart

National Debt Relief has a clear focus on customer satisfaction, and it’s one of the few companies that offers a money-back guarantee if you’re not happy with the service.

Freedom Debt Relief

Let’s explore another top contender that focuses on high-speed enrollment and negotiation.

Pros

Fast enrollment process
Experienced negotiators
Transparency in pricing

Cons

Not available in all states
Charges may exceed 25% of the resolved debt.

What Sets It Apart

Freedom Debt Relief shines when it comes to speed. If you’re looking to act fast, their streamlined process makes that easy.

Pacific Debt Relief

Now let’s dive into a more personalized option known for hand-holding clients through the process.

Pros

Personalized customer service
Low monthly payment options
No upfront fees

Cons

Not available in all states
Minimum debt required is $10,000

What Sets It Apart

Pacific Debt Relief is best for people who want a human touch. Their reps work closely with clients every step of the way.

Accredited Debt Relief

If variety is what you need, Accredited Debt Relief offers multiple debt solutions under one roof.

Pros

Offers both debt settlement and debt consolidation
Free consultations
A+ rated by financial institutions

Cons

Not available in all states
Fees depend on debt amount

What Sets It Apart

Accredited Debt Relief gives you more flexibility with options tailored to your specific needs.

CuraDebt

Here’s a less popular treasure that’s gaining popularity for its tax debt reduction offerings.

Pros

Handles both personal and business debt
Specializes in IRS and state tax relief
Low monthly fees

Cons

No mobile app
Website could be more modern

What Sets It Apart

When compared to other debt relief options, CuraDebt stands out due to its unique emphasis on tax debt reduction.

New Era Debt Solutions

Let’s look at a company praised for being low-cost and upfront.

Pros

Zero upfront fees
Shorter average program time
Direct settlement provider

Cons

Limited online resources
Only works with unsecured debts

What Sets It Apart

New Era is transparent from the get-go and handles negotiations in-house instead of outsourcing.

DMB Financial

For structured plans and strong customer support, DMB Financial is worth considering.

Pros

Personalized financial plans
Online dashboard for clients
Strong customer service

Cons

No mobile app
Not available in all states

What Sets It Apart

Their online dashboard makes it easy to track your progress and feel in control of your debt relief.

First Advantage Debt Relief

Let’s highlight a newer player that offers competitive pricing.

Pros

Lower-than-average fees
Simple enrollment process
Friendly support staff

Cons

Limited to certain states
Not as established as others

What Sets It Apart

First Advantage keeps things simple. It’s great for those who want a no-fuss approach to managing debt.

Guardian Debt Relief

Guardian Debt Relief combines traditional settlement services with strong educational resources.

Pros

Offers budget coaching
Strong BBB rating
Transparent pricing

Cons

Not available in all states
Must owe at least $7,500

What Sets It Apart

This program focuses on education. Their goal is not just to help you now but to keep you out of debt later.

Century Support Services

Let’s shift to a company that automates much of the process.

Pros

Automated tracking tools
No upfront fees
Flexible payment plans

Cons

No tax relief options
Minimum debt of $10,000

What Sets It Apart

They use technology to make the debt relief journey more hands-off and automated for busy people.

Beyond Finance

A fresh face with modern features for today’s digital world.

Pros

Mobile-friendly tools
Fast debt resolution times
Low client-to-coach ratio

Cons

Some fees can be high
Only works with unsecured debt

What Sets It Apart

It’s a tech-savvy option for people who want to manage their debt using their phone or tablet.

Liberty Debt Relief

A flexible option for those who want to shop around.

Pros

Connects you to multiple providers
No fee for consultation
Transparent about all options

Cons

They act more like a middleman
Limited hands-on service

What Sets It Apart

Liberty gives you choices. It’s perfect if you’re still weighing your options and want to compare offers.

DebtWave Credit Counseling

Let’s talk about a nonprofit approach.

Pros

Nonprofit status
Credit counseling included
Educational tools and workshops

Cons

May not settle debts
Monthly fees apply

What Sets It Apart

DebtWave focuses on credit education. If you want to learn as you fix your credit, this is a strong choice.

GreenPath Financial Wellness

This one’s all about long-term financial health.

Pros

HUD-approved housing counseling
Debt management plans
Offers bankruptcy counseling

Cons

Doesn’t offer settlement
May take longer to resolve debts

What Sets It Apart

GreenPath helps with more than debt—they look at your total financial picture, including housing and budgeting.

InCharge Debt Solutions

Finally, a reliable nonprofit with a national reach.

Pros

Available in all 50 states
Nonprofit organization
Works with military members

Cons

No debt settlement service
Monthly fees apply

What Sets It Apart

People who seek systematic, continuous aid and don’t qualify for aggressive settlement programs should use InCharge.

FAQs About The Best Debt Relief Programs

What Is The Most Trusted Debt Relief Program?

National Debt Relief and Freedom Debt Relief are often considered the most trusted due to their long history and strong customer reviews.

Can Debt Relief Hurt Your Credit?

Yes, debt relief can lower your credit score temporarily, especially if it involves stopping payments while negotiating settlements.

How Long Does Debt Relief Take?

Depending on your monthly payment and total debt, the duration of most programs ranges from twenty-four to forty-eight months.

Are Debt Relief Programs Worth It?

If you’re struggling to make minimum payments and don’t see a way out, a good debt relief program can be worth it.

How Do I Qualify For Debt Relief?

You usually have to prove that you’re financially strapped and owing between $7,500 and $10,000 of unsecured debt.

What Debts Can Be Settled?

Unsecured debts, such as those from credit cards, personal loans, and medical expenses, are often accepted by most programs.

Must I Pay Taxes On Forgiven Debt?

Yes, the IRS often considers forgiven debt as taxable income, but there are exceptions based on hardship.

Can I Do Debt Relief On My Own?

Yes, but it can be tough to negotiate with creditors without professional help, and you might not get the best terms.

Is There A Way To Know If A Debt Relief Program Is Effective?

Many programs claim success rates between 70% and 90%, depending on the client’s commitment and financial situation.

Will Creditors Still Call Me During The Program?

Possibly. However, once negotiations begin, most reputable programs will work to reduce or eliminate creditor contact.

What Happens If I Miss A Payment?

Missing payments can delay your progress and may even disqualify you from the program. Always communicate with your provider.

Can Debt Relief Stop A Lawsuit?

Not always. If a creditor sues you, some programs may help settle the debt quickly, but legal action can still occur.

What’s The Difference Between Debt Settlement And Debt Consolidation?

Debt settlement reduces the total amount owed. Debt consolidation combines all your debts into one loan with a single monthly payment.

Is There A Risk To Using Debt Relief Services?

Yes, risks include scams, increased debt due to fees or interest, and damage to your credit score.

How Much Do Debt Relief Programs Charge?

Fees typically range from 15% to 25% of the total enrolled debt, often paid after a settlement is reached.

Can I Cancel A Debt Relief Program?

Yes, you can cancel anytime. Most programs are voluntary, though you may lose progress if you cancel too early.

Are Nonprofit Debt Relief Programs Better?

Not always. Nonprofits may offer better education and lower fees, but they might not settle your debt like for-profit companies.

Do Debt Relief Programs Affect My Credit Card Use?

Yes, most programs require you to stop using credit cards during the process.

Can I Still Get A Loan After Debt Relief?

It might take time. Your credit score may drop initially, but with good habits, it can improve over time.

How Are Payments Made In These Programs?

You usually make monthly deposits into a dedicated account that the program uses to negotiate and pay settlements.

Do I Need Good Credit To Enroll?

No, most programs don’t check credit scores for enrollment, though your credit history may affect your debt settlement success.

Will I Be Debt-Free After The Program?

If you complete the program and stick with it, you could be debt-free within a few years.

Can Debt Relief Help With Student Loans?

Most programs don’t cover federal student loans. You may need a different plan for those types of debts.

What Should I Look For In A Debt Relief Company?

Look for accreditation, no upfront fees, good reviews, and transparency in how their services work and what they charge.

Are There Any Government Debt Relief Programs?

Not directly. The government offers bankruptcy options and counseling, but most debt relief programs are run by private companies.

Can I Negotiate Debt Myself?

Yes, but be prepared for tough negotiations. Companies have experience that can sometimes lead to better settlements.

What Happens To My Credit Score After Settlement?

It may drop at first, but as you pay off debts and avoid new ones, your score can slowly improve.

Are These Programs Available In All States?

Not all of them. Each company has its own list of states where services are offered, so always double-check.

Can I Get Debt Relief If I’m Unemployed?

It depends. You may qualify if you can make monthly payments from savings, unemployment benefits, or other income sources.

Will I Still Receive Collection Calls?

Possibly at first, but many companies will work to stop or limit these calls as soon as you enroll.

Is Debt Relief The Same As Bankruptcy?

No. Bankruptcy is a legal process and may wipe out more debt, but it can have longer-lasting effects on your credit.

Can I Choose Which Debts To Include?

Yes, you can usually choose which debts to enroll in the program, especially if they’re unsecured.

How Fast Can I Start?

Some programs allow you to enroll the same day after your consultation and paperwork are complete.

What If I Change My Mind?

Most companies let you cancel anytime. Just remember, progress stops when you leave the program.

Are Monthly Fees Required?

Some companies charge monthly service fees, while others only take a portion after debt is settled. Ask before enrolling.

What If My Debt Is Very High?

High debt may qualify you for more aggressive negotiations, but the monthly payment might also be higher.

How Can I Spot A Scam?

Avoid companies that demand money upfront, make big promises, or don’t clearly explain fees and services.

What’s The First Step To Take?

Schedule a free consultation with a few top programs to compare offers and choose what feels right for you.

Can A Lawyer Help With Debt Relief?

Yes, some lawyers specialize in debt relief and may negotiate better terms, especially if legal action is involved.

Conclusion

Finding the best debt relief programs in 2025 depends on your specific needs—whether it’s speed, support, low fees, or flexibility. From top names like National Debt Relief to nonprofit options like InCharge, each company offers something unique. Take your time, ask questions, and pick a program that fits your lifestyle and financial goals.