Learn How to Settle Credit Card Debt

Making Your Move to Settle Credit Card Debt

You can settle your credit card debt! Taking the first step is difficult. It means that you have to deal with your financial situation including: changing your spending habits, looking for new sources of income, dealing with a lower credit score, and collection calls.

To settle credit card debt you have to be aware of your financial situation, including your debts, assets, and income. Credit card settlement is just one method of debt relief. In general, you have to show some type of hardship or inability to pay, otherwise your creditor will pursue the debt through a court judgment, which can lead to wage garnishments, bank levies, and liens on your personal property.

If your credit score has already been hurt (or is falling) then credit card debt settlement is an option to consider. Many times, the first steps are the most difficult. Dealing with creditors is stressful, especially since the debt collection industry is filled with many shady characters. By taking the following steps, you can settle credit card debt :

• Step 1: Count your pieces - take stock of your debt
• Step 2: Know your moves - negotiating tactics
• Step 3: Make the move - DIY or Professional Debt Settlement

Step 1: Count your Pieces - Take stock of your debt

1. Chart out your debt:

2. Figure out how much you can afford to pay each month. If you can only meet the minimum monthly payments, paying off your debt will take a very long time.

3. Count your assets: Protect your assets against collection activities. You will need to put aside money for your settlements.

Step 2: Know your moves - Negotiating the Board

In order to reach a successful credit card settlement you need to convince your creditors that you cannot afford to pay back the debt. Here are some preliminary steps to take:

1. Save money for the settlement.
2. Prepare yourself for an extended negotiation process.
3. For more information and tips read the Bills.com article about debt negotiation and settlement
4. Decide if you can do the negotiation by yourself or if you need professional help.

Step 3: Make the move - DIY or Professional Debt Settlement

You can settle credit card debt by yourself or through a professional debt settlement company. You have probably read articles that tell you that you can do it yourself, and hiring someone is a waste of money. Other articles tell you that only a credit card settlement company can get the job done. There is no one right answer. Sometimes an amateur, albeit with strong skills, can get the job done.

DIY: If you have a good grip of your financial situation, can control your budget, understand the debt collection process (statute of limitations, collection agency rights) and know how to negotiate a settlement, then DIY is a viable alternative.

Professional Debt Settlement Company: If you are stressed over dealing with your debt, have trouble analyzing your financial situation and setting up a plan, then hiring a professional debt settlement company is a good choice. However, be careful when choosing your debt settlement company. Choose a reliable firm, that is accredited, preferably a member of the American Fair Credit Council. Your funds are kept in a FDIC insured account, under your name and control. A reputable firm takes its fees only upon completion of a successful settlement.