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Buyer's Choice Award Winner

National Debt Relief Reviews

4.9
58,817 reviews
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By: Rachael Monson
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Edited by: Amanda Futrell
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Fact-checked by: Jon Bortin

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
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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...

Read more

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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    Review featured by National Debt Relief
    Verified purchase
    Customer ServiceSales & MarketingOnline & App

    Reviewed May 2, 2026

    National Debt Relief got me out of my debt. I love the program. The signup process was very easy. They had the knowledge of everything they offered. I was good to go onto the site from the app from my phone and look at everything that was going on, what was paid off, and what was left to be paid off. It was simple. I called and asked regarding one situation, but they were straight to the point and handled it with no issues. I now don't have to work two jobs.

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    Review featured by National Debt Relief
    Verified purchase
    Customer ServiceStaff

    Reviewed April 23, 2026

    Excellent customer service, well-experienced, and trained. They listen to my problems of my credit debt and I feel like I was in good hands. And I have told people about the company, and I know my situation will be taken care of no more debt.

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    Review featured by National Debt Relief
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    Customer ServiceStaffBilling

    Reviewed April 15, 2026

    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 all of them. The enrollment process was lengthy, but needed to be known. They asked me about what my monthly pay was and then all my outgoing payments to see what I could afford to make the payment. At one point toward the end, I had some money in the bank, and I knew I wasn't going to need it because I only had one credit card left. What I had in the bank was more than what I needed. So, I asked them if they could discontinue pulling out my withdrawal, and they did. It was good.

    Every time I called National Debt Relief, the reps were very kind, respectful, and patient. They made a plan to pay off in monthly payments but I told them that I had the money in the bank and to just pay them off in one payment. They accommodated me because I wanted to get it done. So, they were very accommodating and pleasant. They congratulated me in an email. It was a wonderful experience. I'm very pleased with it.

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    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
      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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      Verified purchase
      Customer ServicePunctuality & SpeedStaffBilling

      Reviewed April 18, 2026

      My brother referred me to National Debt Relief. He looked up all of the companies and decided that National Debt Relief would be the best for me. The guy I talked to was very knowledgeable. He was very nice and considerate as well. We talked for a very long time before he signed me up and he explained everything in detail. It was a very pleasant conversation. They gave me an online site and I had difficulties navigating those websites, so I mostly relied on phone calls. I would call them when I had some questions and they would always answer me.

      I'm now paid off. I got out of that awful debt I got myself into and I've learned a great lesson from it. National Debt Relief made the process so much easier for me. If I knew somebody that needed them, I would definitely recommend them. Going that far in credit card debt without doing something about it, that was my biggest draw. I learned to stop overspending on the most part. I do not own a credit card now and I never will own a credit card again. I decided to put $100 a month aside in a debit card and use that for whatever I want. If I don't have money in it to buy what I want, I wait till I can build it back up. That's the only way I could figure out that I could buy what I want and still not take it out of the household money. I'm responsible for all these bills I got, so I need to be more smart about it.

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      Verified purchase
      Customer ServicePunctuality & SpeedStaffBillingEase of UseLoan Process

      Reviewed April 17, 2026

      National Debt Relief was easy to get into, easy to use, and if you got with the right customer service rep, they are knowledgeable. The application process was a little long and outdrawn, but it went smoothly. NDR contacted me and it took a couple of hours. Some of the reps were very helpful and knowledgeable while some of them weren't. Also, some of them were hard to understand on the phone. Their English wasn't the greatest. Some of them spoke super fast and I couldn't understand them so I had to tell them to slow down and repeat it, and they would get upset with me. But the ones I could understand and worked with me were very knowledgeable.

      Towards the very end of it right when the government shutdown happened in October, I called to see if I could stop payments for a month or two. The person I dealt with said, "Yeah, that's no problem." I figured it would be put on the back end of my loan. Right after I started paying it back, they said, "You owe us 600-some dollars." NDR didn't explain that well. And when I was paying it off, I made that a point on everything. But that was the only negative that I had about the whole thing. The person that helped me right at the very end was willing to work with me. I paid it off a year in advance. Go for it.

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      Verified purchase
      Billing

      Reviewed July 2, 2026

      I had a bunch of credit cards and I did a debt consolidation with National Debt Relief. Once everything was set up, I was on my own but everything went smoothly. People who are thinking about doing the same thing that I did should try it.

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      Verified purchase
      Refunds & PayoutsStaffBilling

      Reviewed June 30, 2026

      I went with National Debt Relief to pay my debts down faster and the program has been a big help for me. It has saved me a lot and now, I can save a little bit. National Debt Relief is good. The reps are friendly. They explain the program, how you save money, and how you pay all your debt. Instead of paying different credit cards, you only pay in one place.

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      Verified purchase
      Customer ServiceStaff

      Reviewed June 28, 2026

      I was skeptical before I place the phone call. So many scammers today. And what a remarkable experience I had with Steven. Professional and kind at the same time. He efficiently took all my info and he made the whole process easy. He treated me with respect and dignity.

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      Verified purchase
      Staff

      Reviewed June 28, 2026

      I had an excellent experience. The entire process was smooth, incredibly efficient and very friendly. Everything was clearly explained, and I was able to get exactly what I needed without hassle. The quality of service was great and supported whenever I had a question. It is refreshing to find a company that values its customers and delivers exactly what is promised. Very reliable, professional and great experience.

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      Verified purchase
      Staff

      Reviewed June 27, 2026

      Selena ** was amazing from start to finish! So well informed, professional, and compassionate. She armed me with all the information I needed to feel confident in moving forward with my debt consolidation.

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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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