Date: 15 Jan 2010 Comments: 0

Avoiding credit card debt relief scams may be difficult especially if you are already deep in credit card debt and you are looking at quick ways to get you out of the rut. People in this situation are easy prey to scams because of their desperation. There is a way, however, for you to avoid being a victim. Get yourself informed about the techniques of credit card relief scams and debt reduction scams. When you are sufficiently aware of how these scams work, avoiding credit card debt relief scams will be second nature.

First and foremost, check whether these companies offering you credit card debt relief are legitimate. Several organizations have lists of legitimate entities that offer credit counseling, debt relief counseling and the like. You can check with the National Foundation for Credit Counseling if they are affiliated. If not, then you have to research further. The Better Business Bureau may give you ideas on whether complaints have been filed against them. If there are, move on to the next company.

When these companies tell you that everything will be okay and that there are only benefits to what they can offer you, that there are no consequences in your situation, this is probably a scam. Remember that there are responsibilities when credit is given and you have been neglect in paying for your debt so there has to be consequences. Legitimate companies will tell you that truth – there are repercussions and that you will not be completely debt-free.

Avoiding credit card debt relief scams also means vague service fees and charges. Some will say they are non-profit and that they only need “donations”. Service fees should be discussed upfront. You’re already in debt so legitimate companies will normally tell you how much it will cost you to get their services. They will also tell you that they cannot guarantee how much you can save exactly – that’s why it’s called debt negotiation because they are there precisely to negotiate a better deal for you. Debt reduction scams, on the other hand, will give you a guaranteed amount. Head the ringing in your head and move on to the next company.
There are other less obvious techniques at work but if you arm yourself with knowledge, you can detect them. The best way of avoiding credit card debt relief scams is really to use your head, keep you cool and heed your instincts.