clinteastwoodxy: BFTKT Blog | How You Can Protect Yourself From Debt Relief Scams

Image Credit

There is an increasing demand for debt relief programs. More and more people are getting into debt, and need help getting out. And more and more companies are advertising their services, making it harder to separate the good companies from the bad ones.

You?ve probably heard the horror stories about people getting ?ripped off? by companies that aren?t legitimate. The truth is that most debt relief programs are run by honest companies that will do what they promise. But like in any service industry, there are those companies that just care about making money, and don?t make customer service or satisfaction a priority.

debt relief scams companies So you have to be extra careful in choosing your program as you may end up a victim of debt relief scams. Sure, there are many good companies out there that will help you get back on track.? But it is still hard to find the right one. Here are some tips on how you can protect yourself from getting ripped off:

Check Out The Company?s Background

The internet makes this much easier. You can?t just rely on a good looking website, with lots of official looking information & testimonials. The best way to do this is to check the business through the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Check on how many complaints have been filed, and how many have been addressed to the customer?s satisfaction. You can also do a search for the name of the company, and see what other people are saying about the company on financial forums and other websites. The info you can find, the better, as no news might not be good news, it just might mean the company hasn?t been around for very long.? So do your research.

Get Everything In Writing

While a debt relief company looks legitimate, it does not necessarily mean that you are in good hands. So make sure you read the agreements very carefully before your sign anything or send in any money. Even if the documents look confusing, read them. Or have a friend read them who might have a little more expertise or knowledge about personal finance. Either way, if it is not in writing do not assume anything is covered, so don?t just rely on the words of the people you talk to in the company. Even if they are honest, they might not know all the answers or be fully trained.

Ask Lots Of Questions

What types of questions should you ask? Anything you need to know in order to feel comfortable working with that company. Make sure you understand exactly how they do business, and how they will help you fix your debt problems. Here are some additional questions to ask. Is the company honest and transparent in dealing with their clients?? Does the company meet expectations and deliver results?? How do they handle customer service?

Here Are Common ?Red Flags? To Watch Out For

Here are the top red flags (warning signs) that will signal you to avoid the company or services:

If the company is more concerned about how much you can pay them, it is best to stay away and look for another.? This company will only exploit your situation to earn more profits, instead of helping you resolve your problem.? You are better off with companies that show genuine concern about your financial difficulties and debt problems.

Do not be blinded by super low quotations, or incredible savings you can get from enlisting the services of these companies.? Most likely, these companies are frauds.? They are just using their extreme low quotes to lure you into using their services and then after paying for the fees, leave you empty handed with your problem unresolved.

If the solution they offer is to wipe away all your debts, you are in the wrong hands.? Legitimate and reputable debt relief companies, no matter how much expertise and negotiating skills they have, can never arrange for a complete wipe out of your outstanding debts.? They can only make the payment more convenient and affordable for you.

Before thinking about getting professional help, check first if you can resolve the problem by yourself.? Sometimes, you may be able to fix your own financial difficulties. But if you decide it is best to hire a debt relief program, and then make sure that you do your part in protecting yourself so you don?t become the next victim of an avoidable scam!

Note: This is a guest post written by Kris Bickell

About Kris Bickell

Kris Bickell offers a variety of debt relief tips at www.Debt-Tips.com. whether you are looking for help with too much credit card debt, fixing past credit problems, or saving money, you will learn actual tips to help you get back on track, including the right questions to ask before hiring a? debt relief company.