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Debt options before debt promises

Know the trade-off before you call a debt company.

If minimum payments are breaking the paycheck, slow down and sort the options first. Hardship programs, credit counseling, consolidation, settlement, negotiation, and bankruptcy consultation all solve different problems.

Notebook, calculator, and bills arranged on a kitchen table

Start with the decision you are actually making.

Debt stress makes every button look urgent. Pick the page that matches the question in front of you.

Get the debt options triage sheet.

Email only. No phone number, no debt amount, no creditor names, no sensitive financial intake.

This is education, not advice. If you are facing lawsuits, garnishment, foreclosure, or bankruptcy questions, talk to a qualified professional.

Official sources to read first: CFPB debt relief explainer, CFPB debt collector settlement guidance, FTC debt relief services guide.