
How to Consolidate Credit Card Debt: 5 Best Options
Consolidating your credit card debt is usually a good idea if you can qualify for a lower rate than your current debts.

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Debt consolidation rolls multiple debts into a single payment. It can be a good idea if you qualify for a low enough interest rate.

A hardship loan can be any funds borrowed during a financial challenge. Compare all options before you borrow.

Tax refund loans provide fast cash while you wait for the rest of your refund.

Negotiating a debt settlement on your own isn't easy, but it can save time and money compared with hiring a debt settlement company.

Accredited Debt Relief offers debt settlement plans that can help you get out of debt, but it’s risky. Compare debt settlement with other debt payoff alternatives.

National Debt Relief offers debt settlement plans that can help you get out of debt, but it’s risky. Compare debt settlement with other debt payoff alternatives.

A usury law is essentially an interest rate law. For the most part, loan rates are controlled at the state level.

Personal loans can be used for many reasons, but potentially high rates are among their biggest drawbacks.

Personal loans and personal lines of credit have similar approval requirements, but they vary in how you receive and repay the funds.

Prepare for a change to your credit score and make plans for extra money in your budget.

Defaulting on a personal loan can have serious consequences, including a damaged credit score.

Deferring a personal loan payment can relieve financial stress for a month or two, but the total cost could go up.

Need to borrow money? We explore the fastest and cheapest ways to borrow, plus three options to avoid.

Most lenders review your credit score, credit history, income and debt-to-income ratio on a personal loan application.

Non-citizens who are permanent residents and have a Social Security number or ITIN may qualify for a personal loan.

With 250+ articles and 80+ years of combined expertise, our team helps you make confident financial choices. Discover more from NerdWallet's writers and strategists.

See how the top companies offering debt relief stack up on fees, minimum debt requirements and potential savings.


JG Wentworth offers debt settlement plans that can help you get out of debt, but it’s risky. Compare debt settlement with other debt payoff alternatives.


ClearOne Advantage offers debt settlement plans that can help you get out of debt, but it’s risky. Compare settlement with other debt payoff alternatives.


CreditAssociates offers debt settlement plans that can help you get out of debt, but it’s risky. Compare debt settlement with other debt payoff alternatives.


Ascend Debt Relief offers debt settlement plans that can help you get out of debt, but it’s risky. Compare debt settlement with other debt payoff alternatives.


Pacific Debt Relief offers debt settlement plans that can help you get out of debt, but it’s risky. Compare debt settlement with other debt payoff alternatives.


Peer-to-peer lending involves individual investors — rather than banks — that fund a loan. Peer-to-peer loans may have less stringent borrowing requirements.


When you're short on cash, a payday loan may seem like the only option — but there are alternatives. Consider these nine options.


When you need money fast, consider quick personal loans that fund the same or next day after approval.


Some online lenders, credit unions and banks offer small personal loans of $1,000 or less to cover urgent expenses.


You can get a debt consolidation loan from an online lender, even if you have bad credit. Compare loan offers to find the best rate.


Money borrowing apps can deliver quick cash into your account, but beware of fees and repeat borrowing.


Accredited Debt Relief offers debt settlement plans that can help you get out of debt, but it’s risky. Compare debt settlement with other debt payoff alternatives.


Debt settlement can hurt your credit and stay on your credit report for seven years. Compare debt settlement with less risky options.


Personal loans and personal lines of credit have similar approval requirements, but they vary in how you receive and repay the funds.


Debt settlement hurts your credit score, and there’s no guarantee of success. Consider other debt relief options first.


Choose a term length that balances affordable monthly payments and low interest costs.


Financing options for above-ground pools include credit cards, "buy now pay later,” retailer financing, personal loans and home equity options.


Learn the reason your loan was denied, then work on boosting your credit and income for your next application.


A personal loan can cover a tax bill, but look for more affordable alternatives first.
