http://www.debt-free-guide.com/debt/debt-settlement/debt-settlement-service/ Debt settlement service - When you have decided that settlement is your best bet, get a good debt settlement service on your side. en-us Sat, 26 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EDT Sat, 26 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EDT Weblog Editor 2.0 Debt settlement in a nutshell Actually even the face of debt settlement is constantly on the flux, but it still retains some basic elements. The first thing that you need to do is find the right debt settlement service, one that is reputable and that you feel comfortable with. When you have done that then you will sit sown with a debt settlement expert who will take a look at your unique situation. Most likely you have debt from a few different creditors and they will start by getting in touch with all of them. The staff of a debt settlement service already has existing relationships with many of the creditors and are much better able to negotiate your debt to the lowest possible final balances. With the help of a good debt settlement service you can expect to pay about 40-60 cents on the dollar when you settle the debt. Generally speaking, you will then pay it all off in one lump sum and the debt will then be considered paid, but not according to the original agreements. This part is important because it will also show up on your credit report for about the next 7 years and will lower your credit score considerably. Many people will still opt for a debt settlement service because it has other advantages such as being able to start saving money again immediately. On the other hand debt settlement programs may not be an option for some of us who do not have that lump sum of money that they can access to settle. If you do decide to go ahead then the most important thing to do is find the right debt settlement service for you. Do some research and check out a few different companies before you settle on one. Most of the companies that offer debt settlement services have secure forms that can be filled for more detailed information. Sat, 26 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EDT