Understanding Credit Score
Enrolling in a debt resolution program will ultimately affect your credit score, but not like it would if you just ignored your bills. So, while the crushing weight of debt may have made you worried that your credit score is permanently damaged, there is still hope. A debt resolution program can help you get out of debt and improve your credit score over time.
Breaking free from debt's emotional and physical stress can be a huge relief. Less debt means more money in your pocket every month, providing much-needed breathing room to begin rebuilding your credit and pursuing your financial goals.
But, your credit score and debt resolution are linked in many ways you might not expect. Here's a look at how your credit score may be affected by debt resolution and what you can do to minimize the damage for a brighter financial future.
What is debt resolution?
Debt resolution is a negotiation process between a borrower and their creditor(s) to agree on a reduced payoff amount. The borrower makes monthly payments into a settlement account, which is then used to pay off the debt once an agreement is reached.
Unlike consolidation or bankruptcy, debt resolution does not require monthly payments directly to your creditors. Instead, you will make deposits into a separate account that will be used to pay off your debts once an agreement is reached.
What is a debt resolution Program?
A debt resolution program is a structured plan that allows you to pay back what you owe to your creditors over time, usually at a reduced amount. In some cases, you may even be able to negotiate a complete waiver of some of your debt.
Most debt resolution programs will require you to make monthly payments into a trust account, which is then used to pay off your debts once an agreement is reached. The terms of each debt resolution program will vary, so it's important to read the fine print before enrolling in a program.
What are the Benefits of Debt resolution?
The most significant benefit of debt resolution programs is that they reduce the fear, stress, anxiety, and financial burden that comes with being in debt. In addition, enrolling in a debt resolution program can also:
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Help you get out of debt faster
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Save you money on interest and fees
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Stop creditor harassment
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Allow you to rebuild your credit over time
If your goal is to sleep better, have more money, and focus on a life outside of crushing debt, a debt resolution program may be the right solution for you.
How Are My Credit Score and Debt Resolution Linked?
Credit scores are important. Potential lenders use them to determine whether or not you are a good candidate for a loan. A high credit score means you're a low-risk borrower, which results in lower interest rates and better loan terms.
A low credit score can have the opposite effect, making borrowing money, renting an apartment, or even getting a job more difficult and expensive.
So, what does this have to do with debt resolution?
When you enroll in a debt resolution program, your creditors will be notified of your decision to enter the program. This notification will appear on your credit report as "settled for less than the full balance."
While "settled for less than the full balance" is not as bad as "failed to pay," it will still have a negative impact on your credit score. The good news is the effect of debt resolution on your credit score will eventually fall off, replaced by positive information such as on-time payments.
What Can I Do to Protect My Credit Score During and After a Debt Resolution Program?
You can do several things to protect your credit score during and after a debt resolution program. In many cases, these steps will also help you improve your credit score over time.
Some of the best things you can do to protect your credit score during and after a debt resolution program include:
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Making all required monthly payments on time
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Paying off any debts that are included in the program as soon as possible
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Keeping your account balances low
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Keeping your account balances low
By following these tips, you can help minimize the impact of debt resolution on your credit score and improve your chances of a successful outcome. Once you've completed a debt resolution program, you can begin working on rebuilding your credit score. This can be done by:
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Making all of your payments on time
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Keeping new and old account balances low
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Keeping an eye on your credit report for any errors or negative information
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By following these steps, you can improve your credit score over time and make it easier to get approved for loans and lines of credit in the future.
How Long Does It Take for My Credit to Get Better After Debt resolution?
In some cases where debt is minimal and the amount settled is low, you might see an uptick in your credit score almost immediately after the debt is paid. However, if you have a large amount of debt and/or the settlement amount is high, it could take up to two years for your credit score to fully recover.
If you're patient and follow the steps outlined above, you should see a gradual improvement in your credit score over time. Eventually, the "settled for less than full balance" notation will fall off of your credit report, and you'll be on your way to a better financial future.
Regain Financial Control with A Debt Resolution Program
If you're struggling to make ends meet, a debt resolution program may be the right solution for you. These programs can help you get out of debt and back on track financially.
While debt resolution can lower your credit score, many find that the saved money, improved financial stability, and reduced stress and worry are well worth it. Plus, with many ways to help improve your credit score after the fact, getting back on track to a healthier financial future is easier than you may think.
Start your journey to financial freedom today by contacting Clarity for a free consultation. We'll help you understand your options and find the best solution for your unique financial situation.