Debt Settlements - How to Capitalize on the Recession and Get Out of Debt

A considerable part of the population is in debt, even more so now that a lot of people have lost their jobs or have been forced to take pay cuts. People who are buried in debt are seeking legal ways to reduce or eliminate debt. Some viable options are debt settlements, consolidation, debt negotiations, and other debt relief services. Several factors have contributed to the recent economic disruption which, as we all know, resulted in the recession we are now experiencing. Now, one may think that the economic climate is quite unfavorable for individuals looking to stabilize their finances. There are ways, however, to capitalize on the current recession and get rid of a substantial percentage of one's debt and one such way is through debt settlements.What is a debt settlement? It is a process wherein a consumer or debtor can reduce the total amount owed by a significant percentage through negotiating with their creditors. The debtor will be required to pay a lump sum up front to the debt settlement company, after which the amount will be forwarded to the creditor or the creditor's representative once an agreement has been reached. These negotiations may be arranged through the aid of a debt settlement company, a lawyer, or may be done by the individual. It will also require a service fee if done through a settlement institution.Generally, one may avail of debt settlements resulting in the reduction of just a fraction of the total amount. Some creditors offer the non-negotiable rate of 10%. With the current state of the economy however, creditors are becoming more accommodating and generous when it comes to settlements with their clients. The dip in the economy has pushed the present administration into injecting billions in financial stimulus into the system. The stimulus funds have indirectly made the market very favorable for debt settlements as creditors are trying to recover their losses by granting the settlements to their clients at very generous rates.The recession is bound to end be it in a few months or years. But once this happens and the economy improves, creditors are sure to go back to their old practices and will not be as flexible in settlements with their clients. Now is a good time as any in trying to reduce owed money through debt settlements. Remember though, that going into a settlement will still be reflected negatively on an individual's credit rating, although this will not be as bad when compared to the effects of filing for bankruptcy.If you want to get out of debt and hire a debt settlement company for debt negotiation then I have an important piece of advice. Do Not go directly to a particular debt settlement company but rather first go to a debt relief network who is affiliated with several legitimate debt companies. In order to be in the debt relief network, the debt settlement companies must prove a track record of successfully negotiating and eliminating debt. They must also pass an ethical standards test. Going through a debt relief network will ensure that the debt company you are provided with is a legitimate and respected company. This is the most efficient way in finding the best debt settlement companies and increasing your chances of eliminating your debt.FreeDebtSettlementAdvice.com is one of the largest and most respected debt relief networks on the marketplace today. To find a debt settlement company through FreeDebtSettlementAdvice.com check out the following link:Free Debt Advice(http://www.freedebtsettlementadvice.com)