Question:
Dear Steve,
I was contacted by a company for National Debt Relief Program.
After answering too many questions, I found out the company is Law Office called Litigation Practice Group, and the attorney is Dan March.
They are offering me a plan for 48 months at $252.00 a month for my $16,000 Credit Card and LOC currently with Wells Fargo. They said they could reduce my debt to $4800.
Is Litigation Practice Group a legitimate company to perform debt management?
How is Wells Fargo affected by this? Is Wells Fargo cheated out of money owed to them?
Will this affect my business dealings with my banker at Wells Fargo?
Will this change my currently lending status for secured or non-secured loans?
How stupid am I?
Jennifer
Answer:
Dear Jennifer,
There is a lot that concerns me with your statement and question.
My recent podcast about Don’t Believe Everything You Think might be on target for your situation.
Listen to the Podcast
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From what you shared, it sounds like you were contacted by one or more marketing companies attempting to sell you a debt relief solution from National Debt Relief, Litigation Practice Group, or both.
Let’s not get the cart before the horse here. It feels like you are choosing a solution before understanding what the underlying problem is.
The way similar programs work is you will be directed to default on your debts and then wait a suitable period to get your account into the department that might settle your debt. This will reduce your credit score, appear on your credit report for seven years, and may result in income tax liabilities.
These companies might have even pitched you a debt validation approach. Here is another podcast on that subject.
If maintaining a respectable relationship with Wells Fargo is important to you, then defaulting on that Line of Credit, unless necessary, may not be the smartest move.
I’m also concerned if your Wells Fargo Line of Credit is secured by your home. Defaulting can expose you to other serious consequences, such as losing your home.
My advice is to back the bus up here and understand the unsolicited person contacting you is attempting to sell you something. Is that a solution without a problem? Are you struggling financially and need to address a specific situation?
Also, consider who you are taking financial advice from. Is it wise to let a telemarketer or salesperson makes choices for you that will impact your future financial life? Do you feel they are the most qualified to do this for you?
The worst scenario is that you have been attracted by sales statements that may be nullified in the customer contract you are eventually requested to sign.
I don’t think you are stupid. However, I think there is room for improvement to become a more savvy consumer.
Let’s start with this. Before you decide to do anything, check the companies using my guides below to do your own research.
- The Ultimate Consumer Guide to Checking Out a Debt Relief Company Before You Sign On the Line
- 10 Must Do Steps to Find the Best Counseling or Settlement Company for You
- How to Check Out a Business or Company to Avoid Getting Scammed or Ripped Off
I would also encourage you to request a copy of the client agreement they want you to sign and take your time to read it completely. If you have any questions, ask them before you sign anything.
If the company refuses to give the client contract to you or tries to rush you into signing, ask why.
If you decide to hire them for this situation, I want your eyes wide open, no residual questions, and total confidence about results and consequences.
You are not alone. I'm here to help. There is no need to suffer in silence. We can get through this. Tomorrow can be better than today. Don't give up.
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once out of debt who would be the best company for small business loan. or funding?. Also are there any Grants to help with debt out there?.
What exactly is your situation? There is no need to wait to be out of debt to pursue funding if your income is sufficient. I’m concerned you are in a tight situation and looking for access to more money. What’s up?
To clarify, Litigation Practice Group is how National gets around licensing in what’s known as “the red states”. We call it the attorney loophole where they partner with puppet law firms in order to do business in that satate. Let me guess, National offered you a loan to settle your debts, after your 1st settlement?
Thank you for your feedback Angelo.
Should I go with National Debt Relief or Litigation Practice Group?
I just answered your question.