Managing debt can be overwhelming and stressful, especially when it accumulates to substantial amounts, making it challenging to find a way out. In such situations, debt relief companies like National Debt Relief step in, offering potential solutions to ease the burden. But are they truly a reliable option, or is there a risk of falling into a scam?
In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the details of National Debt Relief, examining its services, pricing, qualifications, application process, and customer reviews, to determine whether it’s a legitimate debt relief company or a potential scam.
Summary of National Debt Relief:
National Debt Relief is a reputable debt relief company based in New York City, established in 2009. It serves customers across the United States, specializing in debt settlement for credit card and general debt relief.
One of the key aspects that sets National Debt Relief apart is its commitment to providing a free savings estimate and not charging any upfront fees. While their services have helped numerous consumers settle debts at lower interest rates and overall costs, it’s important to remember that debt relief should be considered a last-resort option due to the inherent risks involved.
Pros and Cons of National Debt Relief:
As with any service, there are pros and cons to consider when choosing National Debt Relief.
- No Upfront Fees
- Positive Customer Reviews
- Free Initial Consultation
- High Closing Fees
- Potential Credit Damage
- No Guarantee of Settlement
National Debt Relief Services:
National Debt Relief assists individuals by handling the back-end work of debt settlement. Here’s an overview of their services and how the debt relief process works:
Eligibility Review: When you apply, a certified specialist reviews your credit history to determine your eligibility for the debt settlement program.
Escrow Account Setup: If approved, an escrow account will be opened in your name at Global Client Solutions, and only you can control it.
Monthly Deposits: You’ll make agreed-upon monthly deposits to National Debt Relief, which they will deposit on your behalf into the escrow account.
Negotiation with Creditors: National Debt Relief will negotiate with your creditors on your behalf to settle debts for a reduced amount.
Payment Release: Once a debt is settled, National Debt Relief will request that you release the funds from your escrow account to pay for the settlement.
Timeframe: The settlement process typically takes between 24 to 48 months, depending on individual debt situations.
National Debt Relief Pricing:
While National Debt Relief does not charge upfront fees, they do collect a fee once they have settled your enrolled debts. On average, this fee ranges from 15% to 25% of the total debt that has been settled. This fee is added to your monthly payments.
How to Qualify for National Debt Relief:
To qualify for National Debt Relief’s settlement program, certain criteria must be met:
Minimum Debt Requirement:
You must owe more than $10,000 in debt to be eligible for their services.
Delinquency on Payments:
Being several months behind on payments is a crucial qualification factor.
Ability to Make Monthly Payments:
You must demonstrate the ability to make monthly payments to National Debt Relief at an agreed-upon rate.
Financial Hardship Documentation:
It’s essential to provide documentation proving that you are currently facing financial hardship that is unlikely to improve soon.
The Application Process:
The application process for National Debt Relief is relatively straightforward:
Contact: Reach out to National Debt Relief by phone at 800-300-9550 or through their website to initiate the process.
Consultation: Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your financial situation and explore your options.
Eligibility Review: A certified specialist will review your credit history and financial information to determine your eligibility.
Enrollment: If you qualify, you can enroll in the debt settlement program, and an escrow account will be set up in your name.
Monthly Deposits: You’ll start making monthly deposits to the escrow account, which will be used for debt settlements.
Negotiation and Settlement: National Debt Relief will negotiate with your creditors and settle debts as they arise.
Completion: Once all your debts are settled, you will have completed the program.
National Debt Relief Contact Info:
You can contact National Debt Relief through the following means:
- Phone: 800-300-9550
- Business Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to Midnight ET; Saturday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET
National Debt Relief Customer Reviews:
National Debt Relief enjoys positive customer reviews, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from the Better Business Bureau. This score and customer feedback align well with other top competitors in the industry, reinforcing its reputation as a reliable debt relief company.
Conclusion
National Debt Relief is a highly accredited and reputable debt relief company, specializing in credit card and general debt settlement. While it has several advantages, such as no upfront fees and positive customer reviews, it also comes with drawbacks, including high closing fees and potential credit damage.
As with any financial decision, careful consideration is necessary, and debt relief should be seen as a last-resort option due to the inherent risks involved. If you find yourself overwhelmed by debts, National Debt Relief could be an option worth exploring, but it’s essential to assess your financial situation and consult with their experts to determine the best course of action for your specific circumstances.
Remember, debt settlement can have significant impacts on your credit score and financial future, so it’s crucial to approach it with caution and seek advice from professionals to make an informed decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are 10 frequently asked questions about National Debt Relief.
What sets National Debt Relief apart from other debt relief companies?
NDR distinguishes itself by providing a free savings estimate and not charging any upfront fees. This transparent approach enables customers to explore debt settlement options without financial pressure or hidden costs.
How does National Debt Relief negotiate with creditors to reduce debt?
Once you enroll in the program, NDR establishes an escrow account in your name, where you make monthly deposits. They negotiate with creditors on your behalf, offering lump-sum settlements for a reduced amount, typically between 30% to 50% of the original debt.
What types of debts does National Debt Relief cover?
National specializes in settling unsecured debts, including major credit cards, department store cards, bank loans, personal loans, finance companies, and even unpaid medical bills. They can also negotiate with creditors for back rent, abandoned timeshares, and certain business debts.
Will using National Debt Relief hurt my credit score?
Yes, enrolling in a debt settlement program can lead to a significant credit score drop, potentially as much as 100 points. However, NDR states that the credit impact is usually about half of what it would be with bankruptcy.
What qualifications are necessary to join National's settlement program?
To qualify, you must have a minimum debt of $10,000, be several months behind on payments, demonstrate the ability to make monthly deposits, and provide documentation of ongoing financial hardship.
How long does it take to complete the National Debt Relief program?
The overall timeframe for debt settlement through NDR typically ranges from 24 to 48 months. The duration may vary based on the amount of debt, the rate of monthly savings, and the willingness of creditors to negotiate.
Is National Debt Relief a legitimate organization?
Yes, the company is a highly accredited debt relief company with reputable third-party ratings. It holds an A+ score from the Better Business Bureau, and its customer reviews are generally positive.
What fees does National charge for its services?
While the company doesn’t impose any upfront fees, they collect a fee once your debts are settled. On average, this fee ranges from 15% to 25% of the total debt enrolled.
Can I still qualify for National if I have federal student loans?
Unfortunately, federal student loans do not qualify for debt settlement with NDR. However, they can assist with settling private student loan debts.
How can I contact National Debt Relief to get started?
You can reach them by calling their phone number, 800-300-9550, during their business hours, Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to Midnight ET and Saturday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET. Alternatively, you can sign up for a free, no-obligation consultation through their website to get a savings and debt reduction estimate before enrolling in the program.