Tuesday, April 6, 2010

Beware Of Debt Consolidation Companies


By Layla Vanderbilt

Educating yourself on the debt consolidation process is one of the best ways to keep from being scammed by dishonest debt consolidation companies. There are warning signs that can help keep you from falling prey to one of these companies.

Payments Are Quoted At Unrealistically Low Rates - Companies that consolidate debt work with creditors to reduce interest rates. The lowest attainable rate has already been predetermined by creditors, so the rate any debt consolidation company can get you will be the same. As of 2004, reduced minimum monthly payments are no longer accepted by creditors. If you are quoted an unusually low rate, it's because some companies inflate their rates once you are in the program . Rather then comparing companies monthly payments, request information about the monthly fees associated with their program.

Beware Of Demands That All Debts Be Included. Another good thing to know is that all loans are not the same. Some loans like student loans may already have a low interest rate. While other loans like credit union loans are not eligible for a lower interest rate. This means that companies that want you to include all your debts do not have your best interest in mind.

Require A Large Upfront Payment - A commonly used scam in debt consolidation is charge a large fee in advance of hundreds, even thousands of dollars. A few offer to refund such a fee after their customers finish, but in reality people rarely compete these programs. Be aware of this tactic and make sure you don't end up spending any more then absolutely necessary to put yourself in the best possible financial standing.

Flat monthly rates are charged by non profit debt consolidation companies, as these companies are often subsidized by financing companies. Companies taking a profit from debt consolidation services will usually charge a competitive fee along with their flat monthly charge.

Offer Debt Settlement And Other Services: There are companies who promise you to offer other services like debt settlement, credit repair, and other programs. They are all sugar coated venoms. They will only swallow your money and you will face utter disappointment. If you really need to make a debt settlement, you have other valuable option, that is, declaring bankruptcy. This will be a better financial choice, I would say.

You can settle debt on your own, and credit repair is far from instant. Consider your current situation and assess your debts both individually and as a whole. Find out what your alternatives are. Financially, you may find that filing for bankruptcy is in your best interest. Asking For Account Numbers First - Cautiously guard your personal information such as account number, social security number, or unrelated personal information before quoting a monthly payment. Identity theft can occur if you divulge such information to someone, especially over the phone. All thats needed to receive an accurate quote is your creditors name, interest rates, and balances.

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