This article explains current, practical options to tackle credit card debt: nonprofit credit counseling and debt management plans, consolidation loans and balance-transfer cards, debt settlement and negotiation, and bankruptcy as a last resort. It emphasizes verifying agency accreditation (for example via the NFCC and CFPB), avoiding scams, and taking concrete steps - list debts, consult a counselor, compare options, and get terms in writing.

A clear path out of credit card debt

Credit card debt feels overwhelming, but several established approaches can help you regain control. Each option has trade-offs. Match the approach to your situation, verify credentials, and get any agreement in writing.

Start with nonprofit credit counseling

Certified nonprofit credit counseling agencies work with you on budgets and can set up a debt management plan (DMP). A DMP consolidates your monthly payments through the counseling agency; the agency negotiates reduced interest or fees with your creditors and distributes payments for you. Look for agencies accredited by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) or similar bodies, and ask about fees and how long a DMP will last.

Consider consolidation loans or balance-transfer cards

If your credit still qualifies, a debt-consolidation loan or a 0% APR balance-transfer card can simplify payments and lower interest costs. A fixed-rate personal loan can replace several high-interest cards with one predictable payment. Balance-transfer cards can offer months of 0% interest, but watch out for transfer fees and rising rates after the promotional period.

Debt settlement and negotiation

Debt settlement firms negotiate with creditors to accept less than you owe. This can cut balances significantly, but it usually harms your credit score, can trigger taxes on forgiven debt, and often carries high fees. You can also negotiate directly with creditors to request hardship programs, lower interest, or a payoff plan.

When bankruptcy is an option

Bankruptcy (Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 in the U.S.) can provide a legal fresh start but has long-term consequences for credit and certain assets. Use it as a last resort after talking with a qualified attorney or nonprofit counselor.

Avoid scams and check credentials

Many companies market fast relief. Avoid any service that demands large upfront fees, guarantees to make debt disappear, or advises you to stop paying creditors without a plan. Check resources from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and the Better Business Bureau. If an agency from the older list is still active (for example, CareOne, Lowermybills, USADebt), verify current accreditation, business reviews, and complaint histories before enrolling.

Practical next steps

  1. List debts, interest rates, and minimum payments.
  1. Contact an NFCC-accredited counselor for free or low-cost guidance.
  1. Compare offers: DMP vs. consolidation loan vs. settlement.
  1. Get terms in writing and confirm fees and timelines.
Getting out of debt takes time and discipline, but with verified help and a clear plan you can stop harassing calls, lower costs, and move toward financial stability. 1
  1. Confirm current status, accreditation, and consumer reviews for CareOne (or CareOne Credit Counseling) [[CHECK]]
  2. Verify whether Lowermybills.com and USADebt.org are still operating and their current reputations [[CHECK]]
  3. Validate any specific claims by original companies (e.g., percentage debt reduction, number of clients helped) before repeating them [[CHECK]]
  4. Check latest NFCC accreditation process and CFPB guidance for 2025 to cite specifics if needed [[CHECK]]

FAQs about Get Out Of Credit Card Debt

What does a nonprofit credit counselor do?
A nonprofit credit counselor reviews your budget, suggests changes, and can set up a debt management plan (DMP) that consolidates monthly payments and negotiates lower interest or fees with creditors.
How is debt consolidation different from debt settlement?
Consolidation replaces multiple debts with one loan or balance-transfer card to lower interest and simplify payments. Settlement negotiates to reduce the principal you owe, often hurting credit and potentially creating tax liabilities.
Will using a debt-relief company fix my credit immediately?
No. Some solutions (like DMPs and consolidation loans) can improve payments over time, but debt settlement and missed payments typically lower your credit score in the short term.
How do I avoid scams?
Avoid firms that demand big upfront fees, promise instant fixes, or tell you to stop paying creditors without a written plan. Check the CFPB, BBB, and NFCC for credentials and complaint histories.

News about Get Out Of Credit Card Debt

Australians’ credit card debt at four-year high – as it happened - The Guardian [Visit Site | Read More]

Is Bankruptcy a Get Out of Jail Free Card for Young People in Debt? - CPA Practice Advisor [Visit Site | Read More]

I'm in £3k of credit card debt. How can I clear it? - The i Paper [Visit Site | Read More]

22 July 2025: 5 steps for EVERYONE with credit card debt to slash costs - Money Saving Expert [Visit Site | Read More]

I’m a mum paying off £22,500 credit card debt I racked up over 14 years - but I’m not ashamed - Birmingham Live [Visit Site | Read More]

Can you use credit cards to get out of debt? What borrowers should know now - CBS News [Visit Site | Read More]

I've got £20,000 of credit card debt - how can I clear it? - This is Money [Visit Site | Read More]