Guides

• Debt relief options comparedConsolidation loans, balance transfers, debt management plans, debt settlement and bankruptcy side by side, with the cost, the credit impact and who each one suits.
• Debt consolidation loans: when they save moneyHow a debt consolidation loan works, what it costs once fees are counted, and how to tell whether it beats paying your debts as you do now.
• Debt management plans: how they workWhat a debt management plan through a nonprofit credit counseling agency is, how it lowers your interest rates, what it costs and how it affects your credit.
• Debt settlement: how it works and what it costsHow debt settlement companies negotiate down what you owe, what they charge, how it affects your credit and taxes, and the rules that protect you.
• Bankruptcy: Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13The difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy, who qualifies, which debts are wiped out, how long each stays on your credit, and the steps to file.
• Debt collectors: your rightsWhat debt collectors can and can't do under federal law, how to dispute a debt, how to stop the calls, and what to do about old debts.