The Dispatch Briefing
The CFPB recently emphasized the importance of financial literacy, while the FTC issued a consumer alert regarding new scams that target individuals who have previously fallen victim to fraud. This highlights ongoing efforts to both educate and protect consumers from financial harm.
Read the full report →Primer
Negotiated payoff for less than owed. Best for delinquent, unsecured debt. Tax and credit consequences apply.
Avg. resolved at 48–60¢
Primer
One loan or balance-transfer card replaces many. Reduces APR for borrowers with fair-to-good credit.
0% intro APR · up to 21 months
Primer
Fixed-rate, fixed-term installment loans from banks, credit unions and online lenders. Rates 7% to 36%.
Median APR: 12.4%
Primer
Federal legal process. Chapter 7 discharges unsecured debt; Chapter 13 restructures over 3–5 years.
Stays on report 7–10 yrs
The Federal Trade Commission recently issued a consumer alert regarding 'recovery scams,' which target individuals who have previously fallen victim to fraud. Meanwhile, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau continues efforts to enhance its complaint system and promote financial education.
The CFPB is working to restore the integrity of its consumer complaint system and focusing on financial education. Meanwhile, the FTC has issued multiple warnings regarding scams targeting consumers, especially military personnel and those seeking health or debt relief.
The CFPB is addressing issues with its consumer complaint portal and supporting consumers affected by financial service transitions. Meanwhile, the FTC has issued several alerts regarding scams, particularly those targeting veterans and military families.
In Depth · Reviews
Scored on transparency of fees, accreditation, average settlement percentage, complaint rate per 1,000 enrolled clients, and quality of dedicated account structure.
| Rank | Firm | Avg. Settled At | Fee | Complaints / 1k | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Accredited Debt Relief | 51% | 18% | 2.1 | A− |
| 2 | National Debt Relief | 54% | 20% | 2.6 | B+ |
| 3 | Freedom Debt Relief | 55% | 22% | 3.4 | B |
| 4 | Pacific Debt Relief | 50% | 22% | 1.8 | B+ |
| 5 | New Era Debt Solutions | 48% | 20% | 1.4 | A− |
| 6 | CuraDebt | 53% | 22% | 2.9 | B |
| 7 | ClearOne Advantage | 55% | 25% | 4.1 | C+ |
| 8 | Beyond Finance | 57% | 25% | 5.2 | C |