Bankruptcy vs Debt Consolidation

Here’s a side by side comparison of bankruptcy versus debt consolidation. If you want to compare bankruptcy with other non-bankruptcy alternatives (such as debt settlement), visit this free debt consolidation community site. You will learn a lot from their friendly members. Many of them have successfully completed a debt consolidation program and did not choose bankruptcy. You can also avail of their free debt counseling services. Help them help you get out of your debt!

Pros and cons of bankruptcy vs debt consolidation

Bankruptcy Debt Consolidation
Can stop annoying creditor phone calls? YES. It is illegal to call you after you file bankruptcy. YES. You are represented by the debt consolidation attorney. All communication should be handled by the company.
Can reduced interest rate? Wiped out on a successful discharge. YES. Will fall to 9% or lower.
Can save on principal amount? Wiped out on a successful discharge or through a repayment plan. NO
Easy debt planning Not applicable. YES. The debt consolidation company will take care of your monthly payments.
Third party fees Filing fee and attorney’s fee. YES. Monthly fees and setup fees.
Effect on credit score Highly negative. Positive

Effects on your credit rating

Bankruptcy Debt Consolidation
Entry on credit report Bankruptcy is reported. A comment stating that you’re paying an account through a credit-counseling agency appears on your credit report.
Time until the negative entry lasts on credit report It will remain for 7 years under Chapter 13 and 10 years under Chapter 7 bankruptcy. It remains until the account is paid in full. The company will also negotiate to get your accounts reported in your favor.
Affects credit score negatively Lowers it by almost 100 points. Since 1999, Fair Isaac Corp. has ignored any credit-counseling information when calculating a consumer’s FICO credit score.
Effect on future credit It may make it difficult to qualify for new credit. Getting and qualifying for a new credit will become difficult at start.

Free e-Books About Debt Consolidation

Take Creditors and Collection Agents to Small Claims Court Title: Take Creditors and Collection Agents to Small Claims Court
ISBN: 0-9774442-9-5
Authors: Debt Consolidation Care’s Community Members
About the book: There are instances when a collection agent or a creditor keeps harassing you which sparks off a feeling of insecurity. In this e-book one of the community members narrates how he fought back by taking legal action against one of them in a small claims court.
Price: Free to download here
Debt Consolidation Sample Letters for Free Title: Debt Consolidation Sample Letters for Free
ISBN: 0-9774442-1-X
Authors: Jason Holmes (Contributing writer) and Peter Samuels (Debt Samaritan)
About the book: This e-book is a complete collection on different debt related letters. These sample letters will guide you to write a good letter to your creditor.
Price: Free to download here
Credit Score The Quintessential Therapy for a Happy Pocket Title: Credit Score The Quintessential Therapy for a Happy Pocket
ISBN: 0-9774442-0-1
Authors: Jason Holmes (Contributing writer) and Peter Samuels (Debt Samaritan)
About the book: This e-book is a complete study on credit score and the importance of a good credit score. The advantages of a good credit score are numerous and the book guides you in achieving it.
Price: Free to download here

You don’t need to give away any email address when you download them. You may also sign-up to their “Free Debt Counseling” offer if you want to.



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