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Best Debt Consolidation Companies

Debt.org compiled information on six of the top debt consolidation companies in the United States and reviewed them based on services, fees, reviews from the Better Business Bureau, and complaint history.

The review showed the diversity in how companies solved debt problems, the cost of doing so, and the length of time for completion.

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    Advertiser Disclosure
    InCharge Debt Solutions Logo

    InCharge Debt Solutions

    Star Rating 4.7 (4.7 / 5)


    Services Offered
    Debt Management Plan
    Free Budget Counseling
    Minimum Debt
    $1000
    Time Frame for Solution
    36-60 months

    Fees
    Monthly fees average $33. Setup fees vary by state, with a maximum of $75.

    Interest Rate
    N/A

    BBB Accredited:
    Yes

    Company Description
    InCharge is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit that specializes in credit counseling and debt management programs. Counselors are trained and certified by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling. Services are available online, via phone and in-person in Orlando, Florida.

    Comments
    Debt management programs are best suited for people with a steady income and willingness to overcome careless spending habits. They require commitment and patience. They don’t reduce the amount owed, but can help reduce the interest rate paid on debt. The company is well-known for budgeting and efforts to improve consumer’s financial literacy.

    Prosper Logo

    Prosper Funding

    Star Rating 4.2 (4.2 / 5)


    Services Offered
    Personal Loans
    Time Frame for Solution
    3-5 year loans
    Loan Amount Available
    $2,000 to $35,000

    Fees
    Origination fee 0.5%-4.95%. Late fee is 5% of monthly payment or $15. Failed payment is $15.

    Interest Rate
    5.99% to 35%, depending on qualifying factors.

    BBB Accredited:
    Yes

    Company Description
    Prosper is a for profit online lending service. Borrowers file financial information and are matched with investors who fund the loans. Prosper services the loans on behalf of both borrower and lender.

    Comments
    Prosper will appeal to consumers who have a good credit score, but need a quick decision on whether they’ll get a loan. Competitive interest rates and quick approval process make this an appealing choice. Fee structure may be an obstacle. Credit score must be 640 or better.

    Wells Fargo Logo

    Wells Fargo

    Star Rating 4.2 (4.2 / 5)


    Services Offered
    Secured & Unsecured Personal Loans
    Time Frame for Solution
    2-5 year loans
    Loan Amount Available
    $3,000 to $250,000

    Fees
    Origination fee for secured loan is $75. Fee for late payment or insufficient funds is $39.

    Interest Rate
    7.25%-20% unsecured
    6.5%-8.5% secured

    BBB Accredited:
    Yes

    Company Description
    Wells Fargo & Company is a for profit bank and the third largest bank by assets in the U.S. and the largest by market capitalization. It offers secured and unsecured personal loans for debt consolidation.

    Comments
    If you want options, this is the place, but read the fine print closely. Good credit score and equity in home or car make a big difference in the interest rate they charge. It also helps if you do your banking with them.

    Lending Club Logo

    Lending Club

    Star Rating 4 (4 / 5)


    Services Offered
    Personal Loans
    Time Frame for Solution
    3-5 year loans
    Loan Amount Available
    $1,000 to $40,000

    Fees
    Origination fee 1%-6%. Late fee is 5% of monthly payment or $15. Check processing fee is $7.

    Interest Rate
    5.99%-35%, depending on qualifying factors

    BBB Accredited:
    Yes

    Company Description
    Lending Club is a for profit leader in online lending. Borrowers fill out an application, the company assigns them a credit rating and interest rates and investors fund the loan. Lending Club services are available online.

    Comments
    If you’re in a hurry, Lending Club moves quickly. They provide a quick response on loan requests, but rates expire in 7 days, which means you better be ready with a decision. No telephone number on website makes customer service a problem.

    Avant Logo

    Avant

    Star Rating 3.8 (3.8 / 5)


    Services Offered
    Personal Loans
    Time Frame for Solution
    2-5 year loans
    Loan Amount Available
    $1,000 to $35,000

    Fees
    Origination fee is 0.95% – 3.75%. Late fee is $25. Fee for insufficient funds is $15.

    Interest Rate
    9.95%-36% for loans

    BBB Accredited:
    Yes

    Company Description
    Avant is a for profit lending institution that claims 450,000 customers and more than $1 billion in loans in its first four years. Application process is quick and easy to understand. Apply for a loan by visiting the Avant website.

    Comments
    Good news is that borrowers with less than stellar credit score (under 600) could find help, but there are plenty of complaints that loan interest rates are too high.

    What Is Debt Consolidation?

    A debt consolidation plan is a method for simplifying your monthly payments and altering your loan terms through a bank loan or debt-relief program. Borrowers can reduce their interest rates to manageable levels and cut the time spent shuffling between credit accounts. Lumping eligible debts into a single payment can make your life easier, and debt consolidation lets you do this efficiently.

    How Debt Consolidation Works

    Debt consolidation works by combining multiple bills into a single payment and eliminating that payment with either a loan or a debt-relief program.

    Debt consolidation simplifies the bill-paying process by making just one payment at a reduced interest rate. It should be more affordable and faster in wiping out debt if done effectively.

    What Kinds of Debt Can Be Consolidated?

    Most debt-relief companies can help you settle unsecured debts that include:

    Some companies will require that you have a minimum amount of unsecured debt. Under most circumstances, debt consolidation companies can’t help with mortgages, secured personal loans, or car loans.

    What Kind of Debts Can’t Be Consolidated?

    Certain debts are out of the question when it comes to debt consolidation. It won’t help in securing funds for a debt-ridden business venture. These programs cater to consumers carrying personal, unsecured debt. Most lenders also exclude student loans. However, some companies may make exceptions. Lastly, debt consolidation loans cannot be used for funding illegal activities, services, or products.

    Eligibility Criteria for Debt Consolidation

    Even if you've got the right debt, your credit profile could be ineligible for debt consolidation. A low credit score alone may not disqualify you, but here are some things to consider for the best chance at a smooth enrollment.

    • Proof of income: This gives the company confidence that you have enough income to succeed in paying off the loan. Most will want to see evidence that your income exceeds your expenses.
    • Financial stability: Again, companies want to see that you're on the right track before extending low-interest loan offers. Signs of financial stability could include a long-term job or significant savings.
    • Credit history: You need some form of credit history to qualify for a debt consolidation loan. Creditors will also check your credit report to gauge your spending habits and repayment history.
    • Equity: Some companies may require equity (home or car) to qualify for larger loans.

    Prequalification

    Prequalification is an excellent way to shop for loan products without damaging your credit score. Usually, creditors run a hard credit check when applying for a new loan. However, prequalification options allow for a soft credit check so you can view your rate before finalizing a decision. This lets you compare different loan amounts, repayment terms, and interest rates without hindering your credit.

    Debt Consolidation Options

    There are several ways to consolidate debt, depending on your financial situation, ability to budget and maintain on-time payments each month.

    The list of debt consolidation options includes:

    Benefits and Disadvantages of Debt Consolidation Programs

    The primary benefit of debt consolidation is simplifying bill paying by having one monthly payment instead of four, five, or maybe 10 credit card bills.

    Other pros in going with debt consolidation include:

    • Your new interest rate should be lower than the rates charged by credit card companies.
    • A lower interest rate will mean a lower monthly payment.
    • An affordable monthly payment accelerates the payoff process.
    • Making on-time payments will improve your credit score.

    The disadvantages of consolidating debt are minimal – as long as you stick with the program.

    Some of the cons are:

    • Paying off credit card debt could tempt you to start using the cards again. You should stop – or at least restrict – the use of credit cards.
    • There could be fees associated with debt consolidation loans that increase loan costs.
    • You must make payments on time every month or risk penalties.
    • If you take a secured loan, it puts that asset at risk.

    What to Look for in a Debt Consolidation Company

    With debt consolidation, success largely depends on maintaining a good working relationship with your creditor and resolve in managing your money.

    Customer Service

    The first thing a good debt-relief company will do is put you at ease. Companies should provide you with clear answers and have a reputation for integrity and success. Counselors should be trained and certified by a state or national organization.

    It helps to know how credit counselors are compensated. If they receive bonuses for selling additional services, that should be a red flag.

    Good customer service should also educate you about the root cause of your problems with debt and train you on how to avoid making those mistakes.

    Transparency

    Choose a debt consolidation company that discloses all terms involved in doing business, and freely provides information to verify its claims. The easiest place to gauge a company's transparency is often its website.

    There is standard information that should be on every company’s website:

    • Are they stable – How long has the company been in business?
    • Who are they – Is there a page that lists its top executives, the company’s physical address, hours of operation, and phone number?
    • Choice of programs – Do they offer loans, or is the focus on credit counseling and programs like debt management plans or debt settlement?
    • Cost and fees – Do they list all the fees (origination fee, monthly fee, late payment fee) associated with loans or programs? If they offer debt consolidation loans, what are the interest rates?
    • Program time frame – How long should it take to pay off the debt? If you receive a loan, is there a prepayment penalty?
    • Eligibility – Is there a minimum or maximum amount of debt to qualify? Is there a minimum credit score required? Is this for unsecured debts, or does it include secured debts?
    • Customer service – Will you get a personal counselor assigned to you? Can you interact with them online or with a smartphone? Is there a page for objective reviews of the company’s performance?

    When a company has nothing to hide, it should have no problem putting all that information on its site to help consumers understand what is involved in finding solutions to their credit problems.

    Longevity and Trustworthiness

    Companies that have been around 10–15 years develop trust with customers. Their beliefs, values, and performance remain consistent. Providing customers with solutions is why they are still in business.

    Most of the companies involved in debt consolidation are accredited by the Better Business Bureau and have A-plus ratings. The BBB is often generous with its ratings, but it's still a helpful resource. It lists the number of complaints companies receive and how many of those complaints were resolved, which could be useful in making a final decision.

    Make sure the company you choose has been accredited by the American Fair Credit Council or the International Association of Professional Debt Arbitrators. These organizations ensure companies follow guidelines to protect consumers from unfair lending practices or fraud.

    Counseling and Education

    An overlooked but vital part of choosing a debt consolidation company is the educational aspect. Will you learn anything useful in avoiding future problems?  Educating and counseling consumers is almost exclusively the province of the nonprofit organizations involved in debt consolidation.

    The IRS requires nonprofits to provide an educational facet to their service to retain tax-exempt status as 501(c)(3) organizations. Nonprofits do this by offering credit counseling, almost always at no cost.

    Counselors review a consumer's finances, focusing on the circumstances that caused financial problems and how managing budgets will solve them.

    If you choose this route, be sure the company's counselors are trained and certified. Contact the National Federation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) if you have questions on certification.

    Avoiding Debt Consolidation Scams

    The debt-relief business is no stranger to scams. Beware of the common red flags consumers face when consolidating debt.

    Some of the things to watch for when choosing a company or service include:

    • Claiming nonprofit status when they’re a for-profit business.
    • Offering guarantees to settle your debt for pennies on the dollar.
    • Seeking fees for services before reaching a written agreement with your creditors.
    • Using aggressive sales pitches, asking you to act quickly on a decision that requires research and time.
    • Promising a “quick fix” solution. All debt relief programs take time, most of them between three and five years. Be suspicious of companies promising faster results.

    How to Choose a Debt Consolidation Loan

    Choosing a debt consolidation company can be a difficult process, but you can ease the strain of making the right decision by following this process:

    Step 1: Do Your Research

    Compare online and traditional lending resources. Don’t settle for your first offer. Apply the information you gathered to the financial situation you’re facing and be sure it solves the problems.

    Step 2: Assess Your Strengths

    For example, suppose you have enough income to pay down debt but need a personalized regimen or form of direction to get started. A debt management program might be better than a debt consolidation loan or debt settlement.

    Step 3: Know Your Weakness

    If you've let the amount of debt become overwhelming, you've even tried payday loans! – then, debt settlement might be your best consolidation choice.

    Step 4. Make a Careful, Considered Choice

    Understand the advantages of the solution you choose. It's important to find a program that offers the type of debt consolidation you want, makes you feel comfortable dealing with their staff and requirements, and educates you while you're in the program to limit future setbacks.

    Step 5: Be Realistic about a Timetable

    Debt consolidation programs can erase debt in 3-to-5 years. It could go faster, but only if you can direct more of your income into debt. You likely didn't get into debt in a hurry. It's not likely you'll get out in a hurry. Don't be focused on the time. Focus on making good spending choices and on-time debt payments.

    Eliminating debt is a worthwhile challenge. Reach out for help when deciding which path is best for you. All nonprofits offer free, no-strings-attached counseling.

    Alternatives to Debt Consolidation

    Debt consolidation works for consumers with stable incomes, often regardless of credit score, but not everyone will qualify. Some may not make enough to cover the monthly payments, while others may find alternative solutions to work better for their unique situation. Credit counselors can inform you of your options and let you know whether debt consolidation is in your best interest. Here are some alternatives to turn to when debt consolidation falls short.

    • Credit counseling: Credit counseling is a free or low-cost service offered by debt consolidation companies. Counselors will review your credit report while building a budget that works to balance your income and expenses. They may suggest enrolling in a debt management program or participating in housing or bankruptcy counseling.
    • Debt payoff strategies: It's foolish to tackle your debt without a plan. Making payments without considering interest or the amount of debt per account will cost you in the long run. Ramp up the payment process by incorporating the debt snowball or debt avalanche Remember to use a loan calculator when factoring monthly payments.
    • Balance transfer credit cards: let you transfer the balance from debt-heavy credit cards to a new credit card with a low-interest rate. Many consumers will find offers for 0% interest between 12-18 months. This gives them up to a year and a half to pay off debt without accruing interest. Be mindful of transfer fees typically averaging 2% to 3% of the debt transferred.
    • Home equity loan or Home equity line of credit (HELOC): If you’re a homeowner, consider a home equity loan or home equity line of credit. These offer lower interest rates than many alternatives, but your home will be at risk should you default on payments.
    • 401k or retirement loans: Most people can borrow up to 50% of their 401k and have up to five years to pay it back before the IRS smacks them with an early withdrawal penalty. A significant downside to this is the loss on investment return since your money will no longer be earning interest.

    Sources:

    1. NA, ND. Credit and Debt Counseling. Retrieved from https://www.nfcc.org/our-services/credit-debt-counseling/
    2. Singletary, M. (2011, June 16) Debt Consolidation Companies: 6 Red Flags. Retrieved from http://www.pbs.org/wnet/tavissmiley/a-wealth-of-knowledge/debt-consolidation-companies-6-red-flags/
    3. NA (2010, July) Debt Relief Services & the Telemarketing Sales Rule: A Guide for Business. Retrieved from https://www.ftc.gov/tips-advice/business-center/guidance/debt-relief-services-telemarketing-sales-rule-guide-business
    4. Shannon. (2012, April 25) How To Find A Reputable Debt Consolidation Company. Retrieved from http://blog.readyforzero.com/how-to-find-a-reputable-debt-consolidation-company/#.V0W69Pkwjbh
    5. Friedberg, B. (ND). Compare Reviews for Debt Consolidation Companies. Retrieved from https://www.consumeraffairs.com/debt_counsel/
    6. N.A. (ND) Pay off credit card balances and save. Retrieved from: https://www.sofi.com/personal-loan-credit-card-consolidation/
    7. N.A. (ND) Personal Loans. Retrieved from: https://www.avant.com/personal-loans/
    8. N.A. (ND) Personal Loans Through Prosper. Retrieved from: https://www.prosper.com/trusted/personal-loans
    9. N.A (ND) Personal Loans. Retrieved from: https://www.lendingclub.com/loans/personal-loans-pd-1