How to Choose a Debt Management Plan

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Key takeaways

Debt management plans consolidate multiple unsecured debts into a single monthly payment, often with lower interest rates and waived fees.
DMPs help you get out of debt sooner and for less without damaging your credit score.
Choosing a reputable nonprofit credit counseling agency is crucial.

A debt management plan can help you get out of debt and save money doing so. Debt is a serious problem. In the last quarter of 2023, the United States reached a collective $1.13 trillion in credit card debt alone. If you’re struggling with overwhelming balances, you are certainly have company.

Debt management plans (DMPs) are a way to end the cycle, all while preserving your credit score. These plans simplify your monthly payments by rolling all your debts into one without the need to take out an additional loan. Not only that, but you save money on interest and fees, too.

DMPs sound pretty great on the surface, but they’re not for everyone and come with their issues. In this article, we explore how these plans work, their benefits, and potential drawbacks so you can decide if they’re right for you.

Debt management programs

Debt management programs are structured plans offered by nonprofit credit counseling agencies to help people pay off unsecured debts efficiently. With a DMP, you will roll all your dues into one bill, potentially with a lower interest rate. You then make affordable monthly payments to the credit counseling agency, which distributes the funds among your creditors according to the agreed-upon payment schedule. If you stick with the plan, you should pay off all your dues in three to five years.

DMPs are only for unsecured debts. These include:

Credit card balances
Medical bills
Personal loans

How does a debt management plan work?

To enroll in a debt management plan, you’ll first have to meet with a credit counselor either in person, over the phone, or online. During the initial consultation, the credit counselor will review your financial situation, including your income, expenses, and the total amount you owe. This assessment lets them figure out if a DMP is the best solution for you and helps them create a plan tailored to your financial situation.

Based on the assessment, the counselor will design a repayment plan that consolidates your dues into one monthly payment. They will negotiate with creditors on your behalf to secure lower interest rates and potentially waive fees. Credit counselors have been known to reduce interest rates from 20%-30% down to 8%, making repayment much more manageable.

As part of the DMP, they will help you set up a realistic budget that prioritizes paying your dues. You make one monthly payment to the credit counseling agency, which then distributes these funds to your various creditors as per the agreed terms. This consolidated payment simplifies the process and ensures timely payments, helping to avoid additional fees and penalties.

Throughout the duration of the DMP, the agency provides continuous support and financial education. This support helps you stay on track with your payments and develop better financial habits to prevent future debt problems.

Debt management services can help you systematically pay down your debts, often more quickly and with less interest than if you continued making minimum credit card payments. This structured and supportive approach not only helps manage current unpaid bills but also fosters long-term financial health and stability.

What do credit counselors do?

Credit counselors are financial professionals who offer personalized advice and guidance in budgeting, credit, debt repayment strategies, money management, and more. They can help you create a realistic budget and figure out the best strategies to repay what you owe. They do a lot more than create DMPs. Their primary role is to provide financial education and resources.

Want to learn more about debt relief options?

Find out debt relief programs pros and cons.

How will a debt management plan affect my credit score?

A debt management plan will help your credit score in the long term but can have an initial negative effect. Enrolling in a DMP will likely cause a slight dip in your score. This is because you will have to close all your credit card accounts. You may be allowed to keep one for emergencies. Closing your accounts can increase your credit utilization ratio and shorten the length of your credit history, both of which can lower your rating.

Additionally, creditors may mark your accounts as “managed by credit counseling.” The mark will not hurt your score but will make lenders wary of working with you for the duration of the plan.

The good news is that the long-term benefits outweigh the initial impacts. By consistently making on-time payments through your DMP, you will establish a positive payment history, which will positively influence your score. Moreover, as your overall debt decreases, your credit utilization ratio will improve, further enhancing your score.

While a DMP may temporarily lower your credit score, its structured approach can lead to significant improvements in your financial health and score over the long run.

Go to MoneyFor to learn more about your credit score.

What to expect while living on a debt management plan

Living on a debt management plan takes commitment. You’ll need to adhere to a strict budget. This means closely monitoring your income and expenses to ensure you make your monthly payment to the credit counseling agency on time. Late payments or missing a payment may disqualify your DMP.

You will also have to close your credit cards and will not be allowed to open any more until you complete the DMP. This can be a major life adjustment if you’re used to relying on credit.

Living on a DMP requires serious adjustments to your financial habits and lifestyle, but it can be well worth it if it means becoming debt-free.

How to choose a debt management company

Here are the most important factors to consider when looking for the best debt management companies:

Reputation and accreditation: Look for companies accredited by reputable organizations such as the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) or the Financial Counseling Association of America (FCAA). Accreditation ensures the company adheres to high standards of practice and ethics. It’s also a good idea to check with your state attorney general’s office.

Fees and costs: Understand the company’s fee structure. Most will charge a setup or enrollment fee plus an ongoing monthly fee. Setup fees should be $75 or less, and the monthly fee should not exceed $50. Depending on your circumstances, you may even be able to negotiate fees.

Nonprofit status: Generally, the most ethical and best-rated companies are nonprofits. However, there are some reputable for-profit credit counseling agencies as well.

Services offered: Ensure the company provides comprehensive services, including personalized debt management plans, financial education, budgeting classes, and ongoing support.

Time in business: The longer a company has been in business, the more experience it has negotiating with creditors and the more likely they are to be able to get you a deal.

Transparency: A reputable company will be transparent about its services, fees, and the potential impact on your score. Avoid companies that make unrealistic promises like getting out of debt fast (most programs take three to five years) or are vague about their processes.

Customer reviews and testimonials: Read customer reviews and testimonials to see what others think and how the company handled complaints. Look up the company’s rating with the Better Business Bureau and read reviews on Trustpilot. Positive feedback and high ratings can indicate a trustworthy and effective company.

By considering these factors, you can choose a company that best meets your needs and helps you achieve financial stability.

Types of debt management plans

When considering a DMP, it’s essential to understand the differences between nonprofit and for-profit credit counseling services. This will help you choose the best debt management program for your needs.

Nonprofit Credit Counseling Agencies: These agencies are typically funded by creditors and government grants, allowing them to offer their services at a low cost to consumers. They typically charge $30-$60 per month, but you may qualify for a fee waiver depending on your income. Their primary goal is to provide financial education and support to help you repay what you owe responsibly. Nonprofit agencies are often accredited by organizations like the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC), ensuring they adhere to high standards of practice and ethics. To maintain their nonprofit status, they must prove that their actions benefit the consumer rather than the bottom line.

For-Profit Credit Counseling Agencies: These agencies operate as businesses and charge for their services, often with slightly higher fees than their nonprofit counterparts. While some for-profit agencies offer legitimate and effective services, it’s crucial to be cautious and thoroughly research them to avoid scams or unethical practices. For-profit agencies may prioritize profit over consumer welfare, potentially pushing services that are not beneficial to the consumer.

Generally, it is a good idea to choose a nonprofit credit counseling agency that is certified by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling. That way, you are more likely to find affordable, legitimate, and consumer-focused services.

Who regulates debt management companies?

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regulates debt management companies. The FTC enforces laws that prohibit deceptive or unfair practices and ensures that these companies provide clear and accurate information to consumers about their services.

State governments also regulate debt management companies through various agencies, often requiring them to be licensed and adhere to specific rules and standards. These regulations can include caps on fees, mandatory disclosures, and requirements for transparent and fair company practices. Check with your state’s attorney general’s office to find out more about debt management companies licensed and accredited in your state.

A trustworthy credit counseling agency will also be accredited by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) or the Financial Counseling Association of America (FCAA). These accrediting bodies ensure that member agencies adhere to high standards of practice and ethics.

Pros and cons of debt management plans

Debt management plans offer a structured approach to repaying what you owe, but they are not perfect. Like all other forms of debt relief, they come with both advantages and disadvantages. Understanding these can help you decide if a DMP is the right solution for your financial situation.

Pros of Debt Management Plans

Consolidate debts into a single lower monthly payment.
Save money on interest payments if your credit counselor is able to negotiate a lower rate.
Potentially, you will get late fees and other penalties waived, reducing the amount you owe.
Once you start making payments, phone calls from collection agencies will stop.
Credit counseling agencies often provide ongoing financial education and support, helping you develop better financial habits.
Have a timeline for paying off your debt.
A DMP does less damage to your credit score than bankruptcy or debt settlement, and it can actually help it in the long run.

Cons of Debt Management Plans

A DMP won’t solve the underlying issues that caused the problem in the first place.
Enrolling in a DMP can initially cause a slight dip in your credit score.
Credit card accounts may be closed, which can lower your credit utilization ratio and length of credit history, hurting your score.
Creditors may add a mark to your credit report saying you’re in a DMP. It won’t affect your score but signals to lenders they shouldn’t extend you credit.
DMPs often come with setup and monthly fees.
DMPs usually last three to five years. Staying committed to the plan and making regular payments is essential to its success.
While on a DMP, your ability to use or open new credit accounts is limited. This can be restrictive, especially in emergencies.
DMPs typically only cover unsecured debts. Secured debts, such as mortgages and car loans, are not included.
There are fraudulent companies that prey on vulnerable consumers.
Some creditors may not agree to the plan negotiated by your credit counselor.

Debt management vs. debt settlement

Multiple debt relief solutions exist. Two of the most popular are debt management and debt settlement. These two methods are offered by very different debt relief companies and have distinct impacts on your credit score.

Debt Management: A debt management plan involves working with a credit counseling agency to consolidate your debts into one manageable monthly payment. The agency negotiates with creditors to lower interest rates and waive fees, making it easier to pay off balances over time. For someone wondering how to pay off $20,000 in credit card debt, a DMP can provide a structured and disciplined approach, ensuring consistent progress and avoiding additional penalties. This method helps improve your credit score over time through regular, on-time payments.

Debt Settlement: Debt settlement programs negotiate with creditors to settle your debts for less than the total amount owed. This can be an attractive option if you’re unable to make even the minimum payment on $15,000 credit card debt. However, settlement can significantly damage your score, as it often involves stopping payments while negotiations are underway. Additionally, settled debts may be considered taxable income, adding to your financial burden.

Choosing between a DMP and settlement depends on your financial situation and goals. A DMP offers a gradual, consistent path to debt reduction with less impact on your credit score, while debt settlement can provide quicker relief but with more severe financial consequences.

Think consolidation could be your ticket out?

Read about how debt consolidation impacts your credit.

Who is a debt management plan best for?

A debt management program can be an effective tool when you’re in over your head in bills, but it’s not suitable for everyone.

Ideal candidates for a debt management plan

High-interest debt holders: Individuals with significant unsecured debt, such as credit card balances with high interest rates, can greatly benefit from a DMP. The plan consolidates these bills into one manageable monthly payment, often with reduced interest rates.

Steady income: Those with a reliable and steady income who can commit to making regular monthly payments over an extended period (typically three to five years) are well-suited for a DMP. Consistent payments are essential to the plan’s success.

Struggling with multiple payments: If you find it challenging to keep track of multiple bill payments and due dates, a DMP simplifies this by consolidating your bills into a single payment, reducing the risk of missed payments and additional fees.

Willing to commit to a budget: A DMP requires adherence to a strict budget. Individuals who are ready to make lifestyle changes and stick to a budget can benefit from the structure and discipline a DMP provides.

Avoiding bankruptcy: Those considering bankruptcy but wanting to avoid its severe and long-lasting impact on their score and financial future may find a DMP to be a more suitable alternative.

Who might not benefit from a debt management plan

Low income or no income: Individuals without a steady income may struggle to make the consistent payments required by a DMP.

Secured debts: A DMP does not cover secured debts like mortgages and car loans. If your financial issues are primarily with mortgages or car loans, a DMP may not be the best solution.

Statute of limitations on debt after death: Individuals dealing with debts approaching the statute of limitations, including considerations of debt management after death, might need different strategies, such as legal advice or other financial solutions, rather than a DMP.

A DMP is best suited for individuals with substantial unsecured debt, a steady income, and a willingness to commit to a budget and long-term repayment plan. By consolidating bills and potentially lowering interest rates, a DMP offers a structured path to financial stability. However, it’s essential to assess your specific situation and seek guidance from reputable credit counseling agencies to determine if a DMP is the right choice for you.

Did you know debt and health are related?

Learn how debt impacts mental health.

Life after a debt management program

Completing a DMP is a significant milestone that marks the beginning of a new financial chapter. Thanks to your consistent on-time payments as part of the plan, you will likely have an improved credit score. This means you should be able to qualify for credit cards with better interest rates and rewards or personal loans with favorable terms.

With your debts paid off, you now have the freedom to live your life. This is an opportunity to build savings and plan for future financial goals. Start with building an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses. Experts recommend having three to six months’ worth of living expenses set aside. This fund can prevent you from borrowing when unforeseen financial challenges arise.

Continue to use the budgeting skills and financial habits you developed during the DMP. As you move forward, continue to educate yourself about personal finance. Many credit counseling agencies offer resources and workshops to help you stay informed and prepared for future financial decisions. This way, you’ll be able to continue to live a debt-free life.

By maintaining good financial habits and leveraging the tools and knowledge gained from your DMP, you can enjoy a stable and prosperous financial future.

Bottom line

Managing debt can be daunting, but with the right approach, it’s possible to regain financial stability and peace of mind. Debt management plans offer a structured and effective solution for those struggling with high-interest unsecured debt. By consolidating payments, lowering interest rates, and providing ongoing support, DMPs can help you systematically eliminate debt and build healthier financial habits.

However, it’s essential to carefully consider your options and choose a reputable nonprofit credit counseling agency with certified counselors. Understand the pros and cons, and ensure that a DMP aligns with your financial situation and long-term goals. For many, the commitment to a DMP results in significant debt reduction and improved financial literacy, paving the way for a debt-free future.

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Rachel Alulis

Rachel Alulis has been the lead editor for Moneyfor’s credit cards team since 2015 and for the financial rewards team since 2023. Before joining Moneyfor, Rachel worked at USA Today and the Des Moines Register. She then established a successful freelance writing and editing business specializing in personal finance. Rachel holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism and an MBA.

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