Disputing collections debt can protect your credit, but only if you know when it actually makes sense to do so.

You may have options if a debt settlement no longer feels right, but the timing, paperwork and payments matter.

Debt settlement is one solution for unaffordable debt, and there are lawyers and companies that settle debt for their clients. However, professional debt settlement can be expensive, depending on whom ...

Debt settlement requires you to pay a lump sum to creditors for less than you owe and have the remaining balance forgiven. To choose the right debt settlement company, compare the cost, eligibility ...

It’s sometimes a good idea to pay off a collection account in full. If that’s not possible, you have other options. For example, you could negotiate with debt collectors yourself, or join hands with a ...

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Settling your debt can help you resolve what you owe — but it's not a pain-free option. You could owe taxes on what you settle. Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our ...

In April 2025, Freedom Debt Relief reviewed data from tens of thousands of people actively looking for help with their debt. The numbers might be surprising. About one in four has at least one account ...