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6 mistakes that can make debt relief more expensive

Debt relief can save you thousands if you approach it right, but a few common missteps could erase those savings.

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For millions of Americans, debt has become more than just a monthly budgetary concern. With credit card interest rates still hovering above 21% on average , inflation climbing back to 4.2% and household debt balances at record levels , carrying high-rate debt has become an increasingly common financial hurdle for borrowers, who are struggling to repay what they owe in today's tough economic climate. As a result, more people are turning to debt relief programs in hopes of reducing their balances and getting back on stable financial footing.

But enrolling in a debt relief program isn't a guarantee that you'll save money on what you owe. Like any financial strategy, the outcome of the debt relief process depends largely on how you approach it. Small decisions made before or during the debt relief process can have a significant impact on both the cost of the program and the amount of debt you ultimately eliminate. So, if you make the wrong decisions during that process, you could end up paying a lot more than you initially bargained for.

That doesn't mean debt relief isn't worth considering, mind you. For many borrowers, debt relief can be an effective alternative to staying in serious debt they can't afford or defaulting entirely on what's owed . However, you need to know what can drive up the cost of debt relief before you enroll.

Learn about your debt relief options and find the right fit today .

6 mistakes that can make debt relief more expensive