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Debt Payoff Guide is a free service that connects consumers with third-party debt-relief providers. We are not a lender, law firm, credit-counseling agency, or debt-settlement company, and we do not provide financial, legal, or tax advice. Information here is general and not a recommendation.

The short answer

Vet a debt-relief company before you enroll. Check for accreditation (for example, the American Association for Debt Resolution or the IAPDA for settlement, or NFCC membership for nonprofit counseling), confirm fees are disclosed in writing, and remember that under the FTC's Telemarketing Sales Rule a company cannot charge settlement fees before it settles a debt. Verify the firm is registered in your state.

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Do Your Homework

How to vet any provider

A quick checklist to compare companies with confidence, before you commit to anything.

License & standing

  • Confirm the company is licensed or registered where your state requires it
  • Check its standing with your state regulator and the Better Business Bureau
  • Ask for proof of insurance where the work calls for it

Questions to ask

  • What are the total fees, and when are they charged?
  • What results are typical, and what is not guaranteed?
  • Who does the work, and what are their credentials?

Red flags

  • Pressure to sign or pay the same day
  • Fees demanded before any service is delivered
  • Promises that sound too good to be true
  • No written agreement or unclear terms
Common Questions

Choosing a Company: questions people ask

Is Debt Payoff Guide a debt-relief company?

No. We're a free matching service. We are not a lender, law firm, credit-counseling agency, or debt-settlement company, we connect you with third-party providers who do that work.

What does it cost to use?

Nothing. Our service is free for consumers. The providers in our network pay us when we refer you, so you're never charged for the connection.

Will this hurt my credit?

It depends on the option you choose. Debt settlement and missed payments can lower your score before it recovers; a consolidation loan or credit-counseling plan may have a smaller impact. We explain the trade-offs so you can decide.

Do debt-relief companies charge upfront fees?

Under the FTC's Telemarketing Sales Rule, companies that sell debt-relief services by phone can't collect fees until a debt is actually settled and you've made a payment. Be cautious of any company demanding money upfront.

Are you a nonprofit credit-counseling agency?

No. If you want nonprofit credit counseling, look for a member of the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC). We can also connect you with counseling and other options so you can compare.

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