Nik asked:
What is the benefit of using debt consolidation for credit card debt? I am trying to decide to either call the credit card companies myself and negotiate for a lower payoff/settlement amount, or to use a debt consolidation company? If I negotiate with the credit cards directly, will that be considered a charge off? I would want to settle myself if I can to avoid paying all the months of high interest. But if I use debt consolidation, then they will charge me a fee every month for so many years? What is their purpose? What would be the best route to go financially?
POTTS
What is the benefit of using debt consolidation for credit card debt? I am trying to decide to either call the credit card companies myself and negotiate for a lower payoff/settlement amount, or to use a debt consolidation company? If I negotiate with the credit cards directly, will that be considered a charge off? I would want to settle myself if I can to avoid paying all the months of high interest. But if I use debt consolidation, then they will charge me a fee every month for so many years? What is their purpose? What would be the best route to go financially?
POTTS


