How It Works

A clear path from question to next step

No pressure, no obligation, and no cost. Here is exactly what happens, what the program covers, and the answers to the questions we hear most often.

Check My Eligibility

Three simple steps

From the first question to a real conversation in a few minutes.

Complete the free eligibility check

Two quick questions about your unsecured debt and your income. It takes about 30 seconds, it costs nothing, and there is no obligation of any kind.

Call to speak with a specialist

If you appear to qualify, you'll be given a number to call. A specialist reviews your situation with you — the call takes about 2 minutes and there is no pressure to enroll.

Find out your options and next steps

You'll learn whether the program may be a fit and what the next steps would look like. Final eligibility is confirmed by the specialist based on your full situation.

You may qualify if you have

$10,000 or more in unsecured credit card or personal loan debt
Steady employment or another source of income
The ability to make a minimum payment of about $250/month
Debt that is current — not in collections

Debts that do not qualify

Federal debt
Student loans
Business debt
Auto loans
Payday loans

Your debt also needs to be current — not in collections.

Common questions

Straight answers, no fine print games.

What is a debt settlement program?

It is a program in which a specialist works with you and your creditors to negotiate a resolution of enrolled unsecured debts. Rather than paying the full balance over many years, the goal is to settle the enrolled accounts for less than what is owed. It is not a loan, and it is not a government program.

How much unsecured debt do I need to qualify?

At least $10,000 in unsecured credit card or personal loan debt. If you have less than that, you will not meet the minimum requirement for this program.

Which debts qualify?

Unsecured credit card debt and personal loans. Debts that do not qualify include federal debt, student loans, business debt, auto loans, and payday loans. Your debt also needs to be current rather than in collections.

Do I need to have a job?

Yes. The program requires applicants to have steady employment or another reliable source of income, and to be able to make a minimum monthly payment of about $250 toward the program.

Does the check cost anything?

No. The eligibility check and the call with a specialist are both completely free, and there is no obligation to enroll. You are only making a decision about whether the program is right for you.

How long does the whole process take?

The eligibility check itself takes about 30 seconds, and the call with a specialist takes about 2 minutes. If you enroll, the settlement process itself takes place over a longer period that depends on your individual situation, your creditors, and the program terms.

Is this a government program?

No. This is not a government program, and it is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government agency. It is also not available in all states.

Will this affect my credit?

Enrolling in a debt settlement program can affect your credit, and the impact varies by person and situation. Results vary and are not guaranteed. A specialist can explain what to expect in your specific circumstances before you decide anything.

Do I have to accept the phone call?

No. The call is the next step if you want to explore the program, but you are never obligated to call or to enroll. If you would rather not proceed, simply close the page — nothing further happens.

What if I don't qualify?

You'll be told right away, before any phone number is shown, with a clear explanation of which requirement wasn't met. Your answers are free and there is no cost either way.

Ready to see if you qualify?

Two questions, about 30 seconds, and no obligation.

Check My Eligibility

Important information: Debt Help Hotline is a free referral service. We are not a debt settlement company, lender, or law firm, and this is not a government program. If you qualify, we connect you by phone with a third-party debt settlement provider. Debt settlement is not right for everyone. Participating may negatively affect your credit score, and creditors are not required to agree to a settlement. You may continue to receive collection calls, and creditors may take legal action while you are enrolled. Forgiven debt may be considered taxable income; consult a tax professional. The provider charges fees, typically a percentage of your enrolled or settled debt, only after a debt has been settled. Not all debts are eligible, results vary, and savings are not guaranteed. Program length varies and commonly ranges from 24 to 48 months. Not available in all states. A minimum of $10,000 in unsecured debt and proof of income are required.