Debt Relief: Options for Managing and Reducing Debt Burdens

Chapter 7 bankruptcy takes four to six months and Chapter 13 takes three to five years. See what happens at each stage and what can speed up your case.

Negotiate debt settlement yourself by saving a lump sum, contacting creditors, offering around 30%, and getting it in writing. A free, step-by-step DIY guide

Paid in full means you repaid the whole balance; settled means the creditor accepted less. Paid in full is better for your credit. Here's the full difference.

Debt consolidation vs. bankruptcy: here's more on how each option affects your debt, credit and timeline so you can choose the right path to debt relief.