In our struggling economy, indebted Americans are looking for a way to relieve themselves of financial and emotional stress. Many debt relief options have become available. Amongst them are the popular three: debt settlement, debt consolidation, and credit counseling. With these services being promoted so heavily, how can one choose and then not regret their decision later?

To make the proper choice, we must view these options from both good and bad perspectives, as well as individual situations.

Let's start with the bad. Credit counseling and debt consolidation appear on your credit score stating that you are "currently enrolled in debt counseling program" which poorly reflects on you when applying for new credit. Debt settlement lowers your credit score because it requires a four month delinquency to negotiate. The accounts enrolled in debt settlement are closed (questionably bad as it can save many from repeating their mistake).

Regarding the benefits, credit counseling and debt consolidation programs allow you to be debt free within five years with a lowered interest rate (approximately 5%) saving you a good deal of money over time with the monthly payments being put into one single payment and slightly lowered. They also allow you to keep your accounts open (also questionable). Debt settlement allows you to be debt free within 12-36 months, while paying 55% of your total debt (in most cases) and 0% interest, resulting in savings of more than 60% because of no interest accrual. The payment is also consolidated in one single monthly program payment while being lowered substantially (by up to three times less).

Although debt settlement lowers your credit score initially, the purpose and goal is to get you debt free as soon as possible, and help you start rebuilding your credit score immediately - by staying on time with secured loans like mortgages and auto payments (which reflect the most on your credit score).

Most importantly, always remember to view a company's Better Business Bureau profile for a high rating and a powerful track record. You can never be too careful about who you're trusting your finances with!