How We Rank

Last updated: July 2026

Our goal is to help readers understand their debt-relief options and compare providers with clear eyes. When we feature or rank a company, we consider factors such as:

• Track record and transparency — how long the company has operated and how clearly it explains fees and process.
• Cost model — whether fees are charged only after results (e.g. after a debt is settled) versus upfront.
• Consultation experience — whether you can get a free, no-obligation review of your situation.
• Fit — the type of customer and debt situation each option suits best.

We also disclose the trade-offs of each approach, including credit and tax implications. Featured placement can be influenced by advertising relationships (see our disclosure), but our descriptions of how each option works are written to be accurate and balanced.

Any score we show (for example, 4.7/5) is our editorial opinion, weighing track record, cost model, consultation experience, and fit. It is not based on customer surveys or independent audits. We compare multiple providers side by side, but at present JG Wentworth is our only advertiser — it is the only company we may be compensated by, and the only one our consultation links go to. Other providers are included for comparison only, and featured placement is disclosed on every page.