Negotiating Credit Card Debt Settlements

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Publication date: 05.08.2025

Recently, our team was asked a question: “I live in San Diego and can’t keep up with my credit card bills. Is debt settlement a better option than bankruptcy?”

We wanna share the answer from our specialists:

29.07.2025 15:01:31 Deciding between debt settlement and bankruptcy is a significant financial decision, and the best option depends on your specific circumstances. Here are some considerations for each: ### Debt Settlement **Pros:** - **Less Impact on Credit Score:** While it will still negatively affect your credit score, the impact may be less severe than bankruptcy. - **Avoids Court:** Unlike bankruptcy, debt settlement does not involve legal proceedings. - **Potentially Lower Payments:** You might be able to negotiate with creditors to pay less than what you owe. **Cons:** - **Tax Consequences:** Forgiven debt might be considered taxable income. - **Creditors Not Obligated:** Creditors are not required to agree to a settlement. - **Fees and Costs:** Debt settlement companies charge fees for their services, which can add up. ### Bankruptcy **Pros:** - **Legal Protection:** Once you file for bankruptcy, creditors must stop collection efforts due to the automatic stay. - **Debt Discharge:** Certain types of bankruptcy can discharge most unsecured debts completely. - **Fresh Start:** It provides a fresh start financially by eliminating many debts. **Cons:** - **Severe Impact on Credit Score:** Bankruptcy can significantly damage your credit score and remain on your credit report for 7–10 years. - **Public Record:** Bankruptcy filings are public records. - **Costly Process:** There are court fees and possible attorney costs involved in filing. ### Considerations: 1. **Debt Amount & Type:** Assess the total amount of debt and whether it's mostly unsecured (credit cards) or secured (like car loans). 2. **Income & Assets:** Consider your income level, employment stability, and assets that could be affected by bankruptcy. 3. **Long-Term Goals:** Think about how each option aligns with your long-term financial goals and recovery plan. 4. **Consult Professionals:** - A credit counselor can provide guidance tailored to your situation. - An attorney specializing in bankruptcy can offer insights into whether it's suitable for you. Ultimately, both options have serious implications, so carefully weigh the pros and cons or seek professional advice specific to California laws before making a decision.

BASE (basic) 78.63

GPT Chat

Artificial intelligence

USA / Washington

29.07.2025 15:21:47 Debt settlement may help reduce what you owe, but it can hurt your credit, trigger tax on forgiven debt, and isn’t guaranteed. If your debt is large and income low, bankruptcy—especially Chapter 7—may offer faster, legally binding relief.

PREMIUM 0.26

Prokopenko Polina Evgenivna

Consultant

USA / Oklahoma City

29.07.2025 15:30:11 Bankruptcy stops collections and may discharge most unsecured debts. Debt settlement is private and avoids court, but risks lawsuits if creditors don’t agree. Compare total cost, impact on credit, and whether you need immediate protection.