How does debt consolidation work?

Debt consolidation is a simple process that involves combining all non-secured debts, such as credit cards, medical bills and insurance, and tuition bills, into one monthly payment, which is substantially-lower than the combined payments a debtor is currently making.

Debt consolidation works by allowing the consumer (the debtor) to pay a fixed amount to the consolidation company; and in turn, the consolidation company gives them the authorization to make payments to the individual creditors on your behalf. For its part, the consolidation company negotiates lower interest rates; or sometimes, an interest rate of zero.

Creditors are usually willing to make such arrangements because they are more likely to receive payments on time from a debt relief organization than from an over-burdened consumer.

In what ways does debt consolidation help?

Debt consolidation helps a debtor in various ways, the basic ones being:

*Consolidate on monthly payments
*Management of debt
*Helps avoid future debt
*Get collection agencies off your back

Is it preferred over bankruptcy?

Yes, it is. Debt consolidation is an important step, which helps debtors avoid the much more serious step of declaring bankruptcy. In bankruptcy, your debts are canceled and your credit rating collapses completely; whereas debt consolidation is a much stable option, which gives you a better credit profile.

What are the various means of debt consolidation?

You have a few options when considering debt consolidation. You could hire a credit counselor to help negotiate a settlement with your creditors--often at a discount to the total amount due--or you can get a debt consolidation loan.

With a debt counseling company, you have the advantage of paying one bill each month for all your accounts. Debt relief organizations form relationships with thousands of creditors, giving them enough bargaining power to push creditors to forgive debt they normally would not.

With a debt consolidation loan, you will consolidate all of your unsecured debt into one single payment at a reduced interest rate. They will assist you in saving as much money as possible and will reduce your concerns and hassles.

Talbert Williams 1DebtFreedom.com All rights reserved

Talbert Williams offers debt consolidation, debt reduction, credit card debt referrals and advice. For more information, articles, news, tools and valuable resources on debt solutions, visit this site: http://www.1debtfreedom.com