We earn commissions from brands listed on this site, which influences how listings are presented.
Adv Disclosure
We aim to provide valuable content and useful comparison features to our visitors through our free online resource. It's important to note that we receive advertising compensation from companies featured on our site, which influences the positioning and order in which brands (and/or their products) are displayed, as well as the assigned score. Please be aware that the inclusion of company listings on this page doesn't imply endorsement. We don't feature all providers available in the market. Any information presented on this page, including pricing, is subject to change without notice. We want to emphasize that we disclaim all representations and warranties concerning the accuracy of the information provided on this site, unless otherwise explicitly stated in our Terms of Use
Close
default
default
Very Good
Get My Rate
National Debt Relief Review
In a nutshell: National Debt Relief helps Americans burdened by unsecured debt, like credit cards, medical bills, or personal loans, find a path to financial stability through professional debt settlement. With no upfront fees, a free consultation, and an A+ BBB rating, they negotiate on your behalf and offer a single monthly payment plan. Settlements typically occur over 12–48 months, with fees charged only after a settlement is approved and initiated.
National Debt Relief Review
In a nutshell: National Debt Relief helps Americans burdened by unsecured debt, like credit cards, medical bills, or personal loans, find a path to financial stability through professional debt settlement. With no upfront fees, a free consultation, and an A+ BBB rating, they negotiate on your behalf and offer a single monthly payment plan. Settlements typically occur over 12–48 months, with fees charged only after a settlement is approved and initiated.
National Debt Relief Review
In a nutshell: National Debt Relief helps Americans burdened by unsecured debt, like credit cards, medical bills, or personal loans, find a path to financial stability through professional debt settlement. With no upfront fees, a free consultation, and an A+ BBB rating, they negotiate on your behalf and offer a single monthly payment plan. Settlements typically occur over 12–48 months, with fees charged only after a settlement is approved and initiated.
default

Overview

Established in 2009 and based in New York City, National Debt Relief is one of the largest and most established debt settlement firms in the United States. It has supported over 600,000 clients in managing unsecured debts through strategic negotiation. The company is BBB A+ rated, licensed by the DFPI, and employs IAPDA-certified debt arbitrators.

Its approach focuses on negotiating with creditors to reduce the total amount owed rather than issuing loans or suggesting bankruptcy. Clients make consistent monthly contributions to a dedicated, FDIC-insured account, which is used to pay creditors after settlements are reached. The fee structure is results-based; clients are only charged a percentage of the enrolled debt (up to 25%) once a settlement is finalized and a payment is made.

This transparent, goal-oriented model has positioned National Debt Relief as a reliable option for those facing significant unsecured debt loads.

Pros

  • No upfront fees
  • A+ BBB and IAPDA accredited
  • Single, simplified monthly payment
  • Soft credit inquiry for evaluation

Cons

  • May impact credit score
  • Fees up to 25% of enrolled debt
  • Resolution takes 12–48 months

Application Process

The process is streamlined for accessibility:

  • Free Consultation – Submit your debt and income details online or call 800‑300‑9550
  • Financial Evaluation – A certified debt consultant reviews your profile and identifies qualifying debts.
  • Plan Proposal – You receive a personalized plan with estimated savings and payment structure.
  • Dedicated Account Setup – You deposit funds monthly into an FDIC-insured account.
  • Creditor Negotiation – National Debt Relief negotiates and settles debts over 12–48 months.

Importantly, there are no fees unless and until a settlement is approved and funded.

Debt Services

National Debt Relief does not provide consolidation loans or credit counseling. Instead, they focus solely on debt settlement, negotiating directly with creditors to reduce the principal balance.

They may also refer clients to credit counseling, bankruptcy attorneys, or personal loan partners if debt settlement isn’t the right fit. Clients report average total savings of 30%–45% before fees. The company typically charges up to 25% of enrolled debt, deducted after each successful settlement.

Clients should note that debt forgiveness may be considered taxable income by the IRS and may result in receiving a 1099-C form. Tax implications should be discussed with a qualified advisor.

Types of Debt Covered

National Debt Relief works with most unsecured debt types, including:

  • Credit card debt
  • Medical bills
  • Personal loans
  • Lines of credit
  • Collections and charge-offs
  • Repossessions
  • Certain private student loans and small business debts

They do not handle secured debts (e.g., mortgages, car loans), federal student loans, or legal judgments.

Customer Support

  • Phone Support:

Free consultation: 800‑300‑9550

Client services: 888‑660‑7427

Hours: Mon–Fri (9 AM–10 PM EST); Sat–Sun (9 AM–6 PM EST)

  • Mailing Address:

180 Maiden Lane, 28th Floor, New York, NY 10038

P.O. Box 2011, NY 10272

  • Support Channels:

Email, online dashboard, and live chat (availability varies by state)

Accredited by the BBB and certified by the IAPDA, their support team is consistently rated highly for responsiveness and professionalism.

AI was used in the creation of this content, along with human validation and proofreading.

prosAndCons icon
Pros
  • No upfront fees
  • A+ BBB and IAPDA accredited
  • Single, simplified monthly payment
  • Soft credit inquiry for evaluation
prosAndCons icon
Cons
  • May impact credit score
  • Fees up to 25% of enrolled debt
  • Resolution takes 12–48 months
National DR at a Glance
8.8Editorial Score
Application process
9.0
The documentation requirements are reasonable, and the process is relatively easy and can be completed online
Customer support
9.0
Phone and online support Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM EST, very responsive
Eligibility criteria
9.0
Flexible eligibility requirements, accepts broad range of debts, available in all states except Oregon, Vermont and West Virginia
Customer rewards
8.0
Active clients can participate in sweepstakes promotions
Financial tools and resources
9.0
Offers some access to legal assistance, financial calculators and educational resources.
FAQs: quick answers on debt consolidation
How can I choose a suitable debt consolidation loan for my needs?
Compare interest rates, APRs, fees, and repayment terms from reputable lenders to identify a debt consolidation loan that aligns with your financial situation. Use online comparison tools and verified customer reviews to help evaluate your options. Choose a loan that suits your credit profile and financial goals, and carefully review all terms and conditions to understand the fees and repayment obligations.
What are some common ways to consolidate credit card debt?
A fixed-rate personal loan may be a suitable option for some individuals, depending on their credit history and financial goals. It's important to compare interest rates, fees, and repayment terms from multiple lenders to find a loan that fits your circumstances. Results will vary based on your financial profile.
Can I get debt forgiveness through debt consolidation?
Debt consolidation does not eliminate or forgive your debt; it simply combines multiple debts into a single loan, which may help simplify repayment. Debt forgiveness is typically only available in limited cases, such as qualifying federal loan programs for public service workers or documented financial hardship. Eligibility requirements vary by program.
Are payday loans eligible for consolidation?
Some lenders offer consolidation options for payday loans, which may allow you to combine multiple payday debts into a single loan with different repayment terms. Depending on your credit profile and the lender's terms, this could result in a lower overall interest rate. Eligibility requirements vary by provider.
Is there debt relief for teachers or medical professionals?
Certain public sector workers in education or healthcare may be eligible for government-backed programs such as federal loan forgiveness, income-driven repayment plans, or grants. These programs have specific eligibility requirements based on loan type, employment history, and repayment records. Not all applicants will qualify, and results depend on individual circumstances.
What is the difference between a debt consolidation loan and a debt management plan?
A debt consolidation loan is a new credit product that combines multiple debts into one, usually with a single monthly payment and a fixed interest rate. A debt management plan, typically arranged through a nonprofit credit counseling agency, is a structured agreement with your creditors to repay what you owe, often with reduced fees or interest, without taking on new credit. These plans may also require you to close or suspend use of your existing credit accounts during the repayment period.
Back To Top