"Are you thinking about using a debt settlement company, but not sure how to find a company that is reputable, honest, trustworthy, will save you money and won't rip you off?" There are more people than ever turning to debt relief companies today as a result of economic challenges. From debt consolidation to debt settlement, these companies offer a solution to put peace of mind back into your household's finances. With so many companies advertising on the internet, radio and TV, I want to shed some light on what is and what is not possible with debt relief.

First, it is NOT possible to save money on all types of debts. Debt settlement programs work best on credit card bills and unsecured loans as well as tax debts. If you have car loans or home loans, these should not be included in a debt relief program.

Second, it is NOT for everyone. If you have less than $2,500 in debt, it really doesn't make sense.

Third, you may only save 50-60% depending on the types of creditors you have, how delinquent the debts are, what state you live in, what type of purchases the debts were for, and your current financial situation. Yet, with that said, I've had reports of some clients savings as much as 89% on credit card debts. You will still have to pay something to the creditors, but your bill would likely be cut in half to one third of what it is right now.

Fourth, in my review of some of the debt settlement companies recommended by non-experts, some actually caused people worse financial hardship and forced them to file bankruptcy, which is the worst possible mark for a person's credit standing.

I evaluated 17 of the top debt relief companies based on the following criteria:

• Reputable and organized staff.
• Affordable for the average person.
• Secure website.
• Greatest amount of savings.
• Work with 99% of creditors, and especially the tougher creditors like Citibank.
• Has successfully reduced millions of dollars of consumer and small business debt.
• Fastest completion times.
• Helps protect your credit standing.
• Member of the Chamber of Commerce in good standing.
• Member of TASC - The Association Of Settlement Companies.
• Member of IAPDA - International Association of Professional Debt Arbitrators.
• Customer satisfaction response times.
• You get to speak with your debt negotiator whenever you want.
• In business for at least 7 years working nationwide.
• Flexible program based on what you have available on a monthly basis.

Below, I give you recommendations of the top three debt relief companies that I have tested based on all of the criteria above.

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Knowledge is power, and even if you are not an expert in debt relief, I believe you can save money!

As soon as you get started with saving money with, let me know (info@debtreliefprogramsreviewed.com), and I congratulate you because each person who takes charge of their debts is contributing to building a better America.

Important Note: When getting your free debt consulations from the companies below be sure to enter a valid phone number. This will help you get the most value from the consultation.

Also, for those with more than $10,000 in debt, you may want to get a consultation from the top two companies rather than just one. Curadebt will beat anyone's quote for debt help anyway, and by getting two consultations you'll gain an even better understanding of the options available to you.