Christian Debt Consolidation
From LoveToKnow Creditcards
Christian debt consolidation is a method of consolidating debts into monthly payments through a third party provider. It can be a good option for those looking for a way of dealing with unmanageable debt, but it is not the right solution for everyone.
How Christian Debt Consolidation Works
Some debt consolidation companies have affiliations with Christian groups. While some groups are nonprofit organizations, others are for-profit companies charging a fee for their service. In either situation, an individual or family is able to consolidate their high interest rate credit card debt - and in some instances, other debts - into one monthly payment.
The debt consolidation company works with lenders to lower interest rates and to set up a monthly payment schedule. Many individuals see a reduction in the amount of money they need to pay to their credit card companies. Some companies claim that individuals are able to pay off their debt faster using these services.
Debt Consolidation Vs Consolidation Loans
Christian groups offering debt consolidation are not offering loans to individuals. These are not home equity lines of credit. The program is a process in which the debt consolidation company works with creditors and the borrower to structure a more affordable payment plan to help the borrower to get out of debt. One payment is made per month to the debt consolidation company. This payment includes the minimal payments negotiated with the creditors and a small fee, if applicable. The debt consolidation company then makes a payment to the creditors on behalf of the borrower. This process continues until the debt has been repaid.
Christian Debt Consolidation Programs
Debt consolidation through Christian programs can be beneficial. These companies have Christian viewpoints on debt. In particular, they often reference the Bible's verses which speak of debt. For example, in Romans 13:8, in the King James Bible, it states, "Owe no man anything, but to love one another." Another phrased is from Psalm 37:21, which states, "The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous give generously." It is these viewpoints that Christian debt companies stand behind.
Those who are considering working with Christian based companies should ask the company why their organization is a better choice over non-Christian based companies. Some companies offer benefits.
- Some companies have a Christian approach to debt repayment. This may include paying back all that is owed rather than settling the debt for less.
- Most offer a welcoming and understanding atmosphere. They may offer emotional support alongside debt management. The staff may be more understanding and willing to help on a one-on-one basis.
In most situations, companies with the word "Christian" in their name offer the same services as those that do not. Most accept all religious denominations, too. It is up to the user to ensure the company offers the services needed.
Benefits of Debt Consolidation through Christian Services
Although many companies label themselves as Christian services, it is best to investigate them thoroughly to find out if their program offers advantages or if it is too costly to become involved with. Many companies are legitimate. Those companies can offer several benefits to the borrower.
- Reduction of Interest Rates: Because the company has a working relationship with the creditors, they may be able to negotiate a lower interest rate for the borrower.
- One Payment Monthly: The borrower will benefit from having to make just one monthly payment. This payment is often required to be auto drafted from the borrower's checking or savings account on a monthly basis.
- Faster Payoff: Because of the lower interest rates and sometimes the reduction of the amount of debt owed to the creditor, some Christian debt companies are able to reduce the amount of time it takes to pay off the debt in total. This may be possible within a two to three year timeframe.
Checking out a company through the Better Business Bureau first is important.
Be Aware of the Effects
These debt consolidation programs often have a wide range of benefits to them, but there can be some drawbacks, too. For example, individuals will often have a negative mark placed on their credit report indicating that they are using this service. Consolidation services may be better in the long run than bankruptcy, but they can significantly lower a credit score in the short term.
In addition, some companies charge high fees to work with individuals in this way. Nonprofit consumer credit counseling services may be a better option for those looking not to pay higher prices. Comparing companies for costs is also important.
Keep in mind that credit repair services may also be available from these organizations. Be aware that the borrower himself can do most of the credit repair, by contacting the reporting agency and reporting the errors there. Consolidation companies cannot legally change the credit report of a borrower for them.
While some companies use the word "Christian" in their name, this may not be an indication of affiliation with any particular religious group. For those looking for a true Christian based company, determine the company's relationship with these organizations prior to working with them.
The following are some of the most well known Christian debt consolidation companies.
Learn More
This page has been accessed 478 times. This page was last modified 22:36, 16 April 2009.
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