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National Debt Relief Reviews

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About National Debt Relief

National Debt Relief is one of the largest debt settlement companies in the U.S. Founded in 2009, National Debt Relief negotiates with creditors to reduce how much you owe on unsecured debts such as credit cards, personal loans, medical bills, private student loans and collections. It offers personalized plans to help you resolve debt, along with support from dedicated debt specialists.

Visit www.nationaldebtrelief.com
Pros
  • Free consultation with debt coach
  • Free debt relief quote
  • Numerous accreditations
  • Professional and responsive customer support
  • Easy enrollment process
Cons
  • Fees can reduce overall savings
  • Not available in all states

Helpful Reviews

Orlando, FL
Verified purchase
National Debt is a good company trying to help people. It just is a slow process. They should be the company to give you the loan things could go faster. And not to have a saving account.

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Sierra Vista, AZ
Verified purchase
I was pleased with the expediency of National Debt Relief in making settlements with my three credit cards. It took exactly a year, which was great that they made settlements with...

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What is National Debt Relief?

National Debt Relief is a debt settlement company founded in 2009 and based in New York. It works on behalf of clients to negotiate lower payoff amounts with creditors, helping people resolve unsecured debt.

Most debt settlement plans are completed in 24 to 48 months, depending on the amount of debt and how quickly clients can fund settlement offers. Its debt specialists are certified through the International Association of Professional Debt Arbitrators (IAPDA), and the company follows standards set by the Association for Consumer Debt Relief (ACDR).

National Debt Relief is available in 45 states, Washington, D.C., and select U.S. territories.

National Debt Relief at a glance

How National Debt Relief works

National Debt Relief doesn’t assume your debt or make payments directly to creditors. Instead, it negotiates with creditors to reduce unsecured debts so you pay less than the full balance. Here’s what the process typically looks like:

  1. The process begins with a free consultation to review your financial situation and available options.
  2. After you approve a personalized plan, National Debt Relief’s experts work to secure settlements on your behalf.
  3. You’ll make monthly deposits into a dedicated account to pay for these settlements.  

Savings vary by client and depend on completing the program by settling enrolled debts. National Debt Relief states that those who finish the program typically save about 25% after fees over two to four years, but results aren’t guaranteed.

During the debt settlement process, your credit score will likely decrease. Many debt settlement programs require you to stop making payments to creditors while negotiations are underway, which can lead to missed-payment marks, delinquent accounts and collections activity appearing on your credit report.

However, some consumers see debt settlement as an alternative to bankruptcy and may be able to rebuild their credit over time after completing the program and paying off enrolled debts.

Not all debts qualify for settlement, and some clients may not complete the program due to financial challenges. There may also be tax consequences, and settling debt can impact your credit.

How to sign up for National Debt Relief

  1. Visit National Debt Relief’s website and click “Apply.” Fill out a short questionnaire about your financial situation.
  2. Schedule a free consultation with a debt specialist.
  3. Review and approve your personalized debt relief plan.
  4. Start making payments into your dedicated savings account to fund settlements.

National Debt Relief requirements

To qualify for National Debt Relief, you must:

  • Be able to make a monthly payment into a settlement fund
  • Owe more than $7,500 in unsecured debt
  • Be going through a financial crisis with no quick end in sight (such as recent job loss, divorce, death of a spouse or unexpected hospital or medical bills

National Debt Relief services

National Debt Relief’s primary service is debt settlement assistance. It helps clients settle unsecured debts such as credit card debt, medical bills and personal loans by negotiating with creditors.

In addition to debt settlement, National Debt Relief offers free tools and resources to support financial management, including budget-planning worksheets, a debt calculator and consultations with debt specialists. The initial consultation is free and intended to help you determine if you are a good candidate for debt settlement services.

National Debt Relief costs

National Debt Relief’s initial consultation and quote are free. If you enroll and the company successfully settles your debt, you’ll pay a fee equal to 15% to 25% of the total enrolled debt, which is typical for the debt settlement industry. There are no upfront costs or sign-up fees; you only pay after a settlement is reached. The exact cost depends on your total debt amount and the terms of your program.

How National Debt Relief affects your taxes

Like with other debt settlement companies, using National Debt Relief can affect your taxes. When a creditor forgives part of your debt, the IRS typically treats the forgiven amount as taxable income. For example, if you settle a $10,000 debt for $6,000, the remaining $4,000 may be considered taxable income and reported on Form 1099-C.

You can sometimes avoid paying taxes on forgiven debt if you qualify as insolvent, meaning your total debts exceed your total assets. National Debt Relief recommends speaking with a tax professional before filing to determine whether you’ll owe taxes on any settled accounts.

FAQ

Can National Debt Relief hurt my credit score?

Yes, National Debt Relief can affect your credit score. Debt settlement often lowers credit scores because missed or late payments may be reported during the process. This is common in debt settlement but is usually seen as a better alternative to bankruptcy. National Debt Relief doesn’t provide credit repair, counseling or advice on improving credit scores.

What are the risks of using National Debt Relief?

Debt settlement can lower your credit score, especially if accounts become delinquent during the process. Interest and fees may continue to accrue until a settlement is reached, and not all creditors may agree to negotiate. National Debt Relief warns that settled debts may be considered taxable income and doesn’t guarantee results or assume your debt.

How long does National Debt Relief take?

National Debt Relief states that it typically takes 24 to 48 months to pay off enrolled debt.

What types of debt can National Debt Relief help with?

National Debt Relief assists with unsecured debt, including credit card debt, medical bills, personal loans and some other unsecured debt types. It doesn’t handle secured debts, like mortgages or car loans, and it doesn’t cover certain student debts.

Can National Debt Relief stop creditor calls?

No, National Debt Relief can’t directly stop debt collection calls. Some creditors may call less once negotiations start, but it’s up to the collector. You can stop calls yourself by sending a written cease-communication letter.

Will I owe taxes on forgiven debt?

In most cases, yes, you’ll owe taxes on balances forgiven by debt settlement companies, including National Debt Relief. The lender who forgives your debt will send you a Form 1099-C.

Exceptions are sometimes made for those who qualify as insolvent — meaning those who have debts exceeding their total assets. To qualify for this exemption, you must fill out IRS Form 982.

Does National Debt Relief charge upfront fees?

No, there are no upfront fees with National Debt Relief. You won’t pay until a settlement is reached. Once that happens, you’ll pay a fee equal to 15% to 25% of the total enrolled debt.

How does National Debt Relief compare to bankruptcy?

Debt settlement through National Debt Relief is not as severe as bankruptcy, but it still has an impact on your credit score. Bankruptcy has the potential to eliminate more debt, but it has longer-lasting consequences on your credit.

What states is National Debt Relief not available in?

National Debt Relief is not available in Connecticut, Oregon, Vermont, West Virginia or Wisconsin.

Still have questions?

Is National Debt Relief legit?

Yes, National Debt Relief is a legitimate debt settlement company. The company has agents certified through the IAPDA and is an accredited member of the ACDR. National Debt Relief was also selected as a Buyer’s Choice Award winner by ConsumerAffairs.

National Debt Relief is one of the largest debt settlement providers in the U.S. and has helped thousands of consumers resolve unsecured debt. It offers free consultations and debt relief quotes, and you won’t pay up-front costs or sign-up fees.

While National Debt Relief is a legitimate company, debt settlement still comes with risks. Settling debt can affect your credit score. Some creditors may refuse to negotiate. Consumers should carefully review program details and compare all debt relief options before enrolling.

National Debt Relief Reviews

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    How do I know I can trust these reviews about National Debt Relief?
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    Page 1 Reviews 0 - 5
    Verified purchase
    Customer ServicePricePunctuality & SpeedStaffBilling

    Reviewed June 12, 2026

    After my mother had her stroke, I saw that she had several credit cards that I had no knowledge of. I was wondering why she had so many with her fixed income. So, I knew we needed to get those taken care of. I remember using National Debt Relief many years ago. Things were handled a little differently then, because we used to have to just go and take our payments to the location. Now, with everything being digital, I picked up the phone, made a phone call, and then went online, and it just took off from there.

    The enrollment process was really easy and smooth. We pretty much did everything online. The consultants were very cordial. They had great customer service. Whenever I had questions, I could just pick up the phone and call. Sometimes, they would even call me. I kind of have a busy schedule, so whenever I was able to talk to them, I would. Most of the time, I handled everything for my mom except when it came down to something that I knew I probably need to consult with her with, I would. Everything with NDR went really smooth and as expected. I would refer them to others. It was a great help to my husband and I many years ago, and it was very helpful for my mom.

    Compared to when we first used them, there was no charge to get the assistance. I know time has changed, and now, there is a charge to get the assistance. But they did very well as far as the charging goes. Overall, it was a great experience. I feel like everything was managed well, especially with the auto payments. It was not a lot of hassle, especially when funding is available, and someone else is making the payments for you. That was the one last thing to have to worry about.

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      Verified purchase
      Customer ServiceStaffBillingFollow-ThroughHonesty & Transparency

      Reviewed June 5, 2026

      Life happens. We have been living from paycheck to credit card. It's not the best way to live, but this is how we survive. But when you get that credit card and the fees are exorbitant anyway and it keeps going up and you get caught up, debt management is the best way to go and National Debt Relief is the best company to use. I called other companies, but one company took it upon themselves to close all my accounts. I didn't even say, "Okay, do this for me." I let them go and went to National Debt Relief. They were very open and honest. I told them, "This is what I want. I want to keep this credit card. We can deal with this credit card." And that's what they did for me. They didn't take all my credit cards and cancel them because that's not what I needed, and that other company screwed me over because the credit card that I didn't want them to touch was a good credit card and it's already paid.

      NDR was very nice and understanding. They didn't condescend. They said, "We have all been broke." They guided me through what would happen, and how it would happen. I never missed any of that money. You know how you get your check and go, "I have to pay this. I'm not gonna have any money for this." I never missed a dime. I didn't even think about it. And when my bills were paid off, I was like, "Okay." When my credit score started going up from zero, I was happy I did it. They did what they said they would.

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      Verified purchase
      Sales & MarketingStaffBillingTransparencyHonesty & Transparency

      Reviewed May 29, 2026

      I just got started with GreenPath, but I wanted to leave a review based on my experience so far. The representative I spoke with was extremely helpful, patient, and considerate throughout the entire process. I was feeling overwhelmed trying to figure out my options, and he took the time to explain everything clearly, answer my questions, and make sure I understood how the program works before making any decisions.

      What stood out most to me was that I never felt pressured or like someone was trying to sell me something. Instead, it felt like he genuinely wanted to help me find a solution that would work for my situation. In a world where it often seems like companies are focused on making money, it was refreshing to speak with someone who appeared to truly care about helping people improve their financial situation.

      The process was straightforward, transparent, and professional. Every fee and payment was explained clearly, and I appreciated the honesty and patience shown during our conversation. Based on my experience so far, GreenPath seems focused on helping people get back on track financially rather than taking advantage of those who are already struggling. I’m looking forward to working with them and would definitely recommend at least having a conversation with them if you’re feeling overwhelmed by credit card debt or looking for guidance on managing your finances.

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      Verified purchase
      Staff

      Reviewed May 28, 2026

      I reached out to National Debt Relief because I had some debt. I wanted to try to improve, have some help, and to get my finances under control. I'm retired, so my income is a little bit different now. So, I needed to have a program that would help me get this thing paid down over a period of time. I knew it wasn't gonna happen overnight, but I felt like they could help me get that done.

      I would recommend the company to anyone because even when I didn't feel like things were going well as far as me, they were very patient with me. It was almost like having a father. They were very comforting. When something didn't go right, they were very understanding. I've never seen an organization as compassionate as them. The compassion that they had in how they worked with me to make sure that I achieved my goal, and then at the end of the day, every employee that I talked with from there, are in the highest standard of people. Those people really helped me, and it really reduced my stress. They were never overbearing. I have the utmost respect and confidence in the company. What they say they are is what they are. They made me feel that I was the focus of the program. They never talked about what they wanted, what they could achieve, and what they were getting out of it.

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      Verified purchase
      Customer ServicePunctuality & SpeedStaffBilling

      Reviewed May 27, 2026

      I was in National Debt Relief's program for almost two years. I learned about them on the television and on the radio, and signing up with them was easy. You just got to have all your credit card bills in order. Then, you got to realize you're going to lose them and you're not going to get them back until later on in life, maybe. I had Discover and I put my Discover on there. Once you do that, you no longer have Discover. They don't give you a chance. They close your case, they close your account, and they're taking your payments. These were explained by National Debt Relief's reps and the program helped me a lot. I got rid of quite a few debts and I ended up saving a couple of my credit cards because I didn't want to lose all of them.

      National Debt Relief's reps work with you, too. If you can't make a payment, you call them ahead of time, and they'll add the payment in. The representative I worked with was awesome. She was very respectful and she loves her job. You could tell she loves her job to help people. Also, they call you if you have any questions and they're always checking on you to make sure that you're okay and everything is going the way that it's supposed to go. So I really appreciated that. Overall, my experience was pretty great and I didn't have any issues. I had a couple of payments I had to be helped, then I was glad I graduated. National Debt Relief is worldwide and I'd tell others to give them a chance because they will help you get out of your debt in the right way.

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      Contract & TermsPricePunctuality & SpeedBilling

      Reviewed July 12, 2026

      Been using National Debt Relief now for 4 years,,, started ok then took a turn for the worse,, they missed cards and cost me more, they would take payments out early causing bank overdrafts and also stated out at 948onth is now close to 1100, because of them I received a summons to appear in court last year, after contacting them they sent someone in my place... Anyone reading this should steer clear.... I figured to be done 4 years later but as of this writing July 12th 2026 i am still not finished, so steer clear of them.

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      National Debt Relief
      Response from National Debt Relief

      Mr. Wendt,

      Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. Your concerns are important to us and a member of our team will be reaching out to you to address them.

      Should you wish to speak with us sooner, please give us a call at 888-660-7427.

      Sincerely,

      National Debt Relief

      Verified purchase
      Online & AppStaffBilling

      Reviewed July 11, 2026

      National Debt Relief helped me. The guy that I spoke to was very helpful. I would think we were like friends with the way that we were talking. That makes it more trusting in the company. The enrollment process was easier than I thought. I used the dashboard. The guy I dealt with even walked me through it to get onto the dashboard. I graduated in the program last month. I had NDR bookmarked on my Safari, so I wouldn't forget what the website was. An app would probably be way easier and more simple to find, but it was easy on the website, it was easy to see how many payments I made and how many I needed and how much I had in my balance.

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      Verified purchase
      Staff

      Reviewed July 10, 2026

      The agent I spoke to was very helpful, knowledgeable, he explained everything and how this would help my situation, he listened to me and explained any questions I had easily. I realized how this program would greatly help me and I signed up for the help and service.

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      Verified purchase
      Staff

      Reviewed July 10, 2026

      Kristi was very friendly and she made this process a lot easier for me. She took her time and walk me through every step of the way. She answered all my questions. She made sure I understood everything and explained it so I could understand the process. It was nice to have someone who understood what I was going through.

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      StaffBilling

      Reviewed July 10, 2026

      Absolutely 5 stars. Melanie ** was extremely friendly and explained in great detail what NCR could do to help me get my credit card debt reduced and eventually paid off. I'm 71 years young and got myself in a hole financially. Looking forward to less stress about bills and start saving $$$ for future emergencies.

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      National Debt Relief Company Information

      Social media:
      Company Name:
      National Debt Relief
      Company Type:
      Private
      Year Founded:
      2009
      Address:
      180 Maiden Lane, 30th Floor
      City:
      New York
      State/Province:
      NY
      Postal Code:
      10038
      Country:
      United States
      Website:
      www.nationaldebtrelief.com

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