As consumer debt levels continue to rise in the United States, more and more debt relief companies are falling under public scrutiny for their unethical business practices. While there is no arguing that a majority of these companies are not conducting business properly, consumers facing outstanding debt obligations need to know that there is a large proportion of legitimate debt relief companies available for representation. A major problem that consumers face when attempting to select the right company to handle their financial situation is figuring out which companies are in fact reputable and which companies are likely making empty promises. This article aims at informing consumers how to determine the legitimacy of a debt relief company without wasting time sifting through unreliable literature on the internet, financial magazines, and local newspapers.

1. Find the debt relief company on the Better Business Bureau. Consumers can find companies on their website (bbb.com or bbb.org) or give the bureau a call to research any particular company. The bureau can provide general information about a company as well as the number of complaints consumers have made that have been filed through them. This holds true for both companies who are members or not with the BBB. Consumers should shy away from debt relief companies who have a lot of complaints.

2. If you are looking for a debt settlement company, find out if they are a member of the Trade Association of Settlement Companies (TASC). You can do this by checking out the association’s website (tascsite.org) and locating the company on the homepage. TASC sets standards for settlement companies in the industry.

3. Have the debt relief company send you samples of the results they have reached with credit card companies. If it is a debt settlement company, make sure you take a look at sample settlement and negotiation letters that they have reached with your creditors. If the letters are for your specific creditors, even better. 

4. Be weary of debt relief companies who make flat out guarantees about the amount of money they can save you. If a debt settlement company is telling you that they can settle the debts, guaranteed, for 30-40% of the total balance that is completely unrealistic.  Although certainly there are creditors who tend to accept settlements for this amount, it’s also possible that an account will not settle and a realistic estimate should reflect that fact.  Look for honest companies who are up front about the advantages and disadvantages of their debt relief program.