Highlights
Feeling overwhelmed by debt? You’re not alone. Here’s how Sarah found a way out using a debt relief company, and how you can too.
- Achieve, National Debt Relief, and Accredited Debt Relief are top-rated companies with solid reputations and proven track records.
- Each offers customized debt relief programs with free consultations.
- Consider debt consolidation as an alternative if your credit score remains intact.
Meet Sarah: A Debt Story Many of Us Share
Sarah is in her late 20s living in the midwest with moderate monthly expenses. She was doing everything right—working a full-time job, paying bills, and trying to save a little each month. But when her mom was diagnosed with a chronic illness, Sarah took on extra caregiving responsibilities and began relying on credit cards to make ends meet. She’s not alone. Reddit users shared similar experiences, often racking up thousands in credit card debt while caring for a sick parent. Others admitted feeling ashamed and anxious about mounting interest and late fees. Sarah started missing payments and felt paralyzed. When collection calls began, she knew it was time to act.
When it came time to choose the right debt relief company, Sarah conducted thorough research. She read reviews, combed through online forums, and sought genuine user feedback. Posts that emphasized the importance of transparency, good communication, and realistic expectations resonated with her. Sarah compared BBB ratings and checked for accreditations, such as AFCC membership. She also ensured that she asked about fee structures and timelines during her consultations. Ultimately, she chose the company that made her feel the most heard.
The process isn’t easy. There will be moments of doubt, especially in the beginning. Many going through this process describe their experiences crying after calls to start the process. But over time, as balances start dropping and the collection calls stop, you can breathe more easily. Seeing the finish line and knowing the debt was getting smaller will feel like a weight has been lifted. Debt relief isn’t just about paying off debt; it’s about reclaiming peace of mind.
Top 3 Debt Relief Companies
Achieve: Best for Custom Options
Achieve specializes in creating unique plans tailored to your personal financial situation. Achieve holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and has helped over 850,000 clients resolve debt.
Online forums and client feedback praise Achieve’s honesty and flexibility: They didn’t sugarcoat the process, and offer personalized plans to work with your budget.
BBB Rating: A+
Accredited Debt Relief: Best for BBB Rating
Accredited Debt Relief is known for strong customer service and holds an A+ BBB rating as well. Their plans typically last between 24 and 48 months, and they offer debt settlement and consolidation services.
Users mention Accredited’s frequent communication as being a perk.
BBB Rating: A+
National Debt Relief: Best for Transparency
National Debt Relief is one of the largest and most transparent companies in the industry. The American Fair Credit Council accredits it and holds an A+ BBB rating. They offer a transparent fee structure—typically 15–25% of the enrolled debt—and a free consultation.
BBB Rating: A+
Compare Debt Relief Companies
What Is a Debt Relief Company?
Debt relief companies negotiate with your creditors to reduce the amount you owe or consolidate your payments into a single monthly plan. These companies can be a lifeline when you’re drowning in high-interest debt and don’t qualify for low-rate personal loans.
Is Debt Consolidation a Better Option?
If your credit score is still decent, consolidating your debts with a personal loan might save you more in the long run. It simplifies your payments and may offer lower interest rates. Companies like SoFi or Credible can help you find loan options that you are likely to qualify for without impacting your credit score. However, those with poor credit or who are already in collections, debt relief services may be a more practical option.
Key Takeaway: Know Your Options
Whether you go with Achieve, National Debt Relief, or Accredited Debt Relief, the first step is asking for help. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, but there is always a way forward. Like Sarah, you can take back control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about debt relief companies.
Achieve, National Debt Relief, and Accredited Debt Relief are among the top-rated programs, as rated by the BBB, customer feedback, and Reddit testimonials.
Debt relief can be a less damaging alternative to bankruptcy. However, the best option depends on your specific financial situation.
Initially, yes. Your credit score may drop. However, in the long term, resolving your debt can improve your financial standing.
Many companies require at least $10,000 in unsecured debt and proof of financial hardship before they can start a debt relief program, however, some programs will start with $7,500 in debt.
It’s possible, but challenging. DIY methods, such as the debt snowball or avalanche, require discipline and stability. Debt relief firms offer structured, guided plans.
