Debt relief

Debt Management Plans

Without knowing the appropriate steps to take, debt can be overwhelming and cause a sense of dread. In some cases, the best approach to tackling this would be a debt management plan.

For more information on debt management plans or other debt relief options, explore our reviews of the top debt relief companies. 

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What is a Debt Management Plan?

With a debt management plan, your debts are rolled into one monthly payment, and your interest rate is reduced. You then are put on a payment plan that, on average, lasts three to five years. A debt management program helps to connect consumers who are looking for a way to eliminate their debt and collection or credit companies wanting to get paid what is owed to them.

Like any debt management option, it is essential to understand if a debt management program is right for you. Consideration may be that you have a steady income coming in that will help to allow you to make payments on your debt for the next few years.

Debt management programs help consumers who need support or counseling on how to budget and manage their money. It can be an excellent tool for consumers to teach them how to cut expenses, cut back on spending, or help gradually raise their income to eliminate their debt.

How much does a Debt Management Plan cost?

Participating in a debt management plan will typically cost you very little. After your counseling sessions, you should only pay a small one-time set-up fee and a small monthly maintenance fee. Be aware of any credit counseling organization that requires application or upfront fees without starting or completing their services.

Reviewing companies on sites like Debt Relief Reviews can help determine the company track record and consumer experience. Once you find a counselor that you would like to work with, they will review your finances, create a budget and determine if a debt management plan is the best option. If you think a debt management plan is the right option for you, read more about businesses that can offer this to you on our site.

Is a Debt Management Plan a good idea?

It can be difficult not knowing where to start if you’re unsure what to look for in a DMP company. Working with a credit counseling agency can help you understand the process before signing up for a debt management plan. Many organizations offer free counseling sessions to understand what the right solution is for your individual situation. A certified counselor is often trained in consumer credit and debt management and can help you navigate your debt and develop a realistic budget.

Your credit counselor will then work with your creditors to negotiate rates and determine a payment schedule, which will be presented to you, and you will review and approve before beginning the plan. Within the program, it is determined how much may be left after essential living costs, for example, rent, mortgage, utility bills, and living expenses. After that, the remaining amount can be divided amongst creditors. Then, a monthly payment to your credit counseling organization, which they will then distribute to your creditors according to the agreed-upon payment schedule.

How Debt Management Plans Work:

Step 1

Start with a free credit counseling session.

Check out our rankings for the top debt relief companies. Many have various options for debt management plans.

Step 2

Your credit counselor will with your creditors on your behalf.

Rather than paying on multiple accounts, you’ll pay one monthly payment to your debt relief company.

Step 3

Make your monthly payments.

To reduce the impact on your credit and keep your finances in good shape, make sure not to miss any payments to your debt relief company.

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