Monthly Payment (Consolidation)
Fixed; based on loan rate & term (example: $15k at 12.9% over 60 mo)
Monthly Payment (Settlement)
Program-based; often lower than minimums (example: $15k settled at 50% over 36 mo)
Timeline (Consolidation)
36–72 months typical, depending on term
Timeline (Settlement)
~24–48 months typical, depending on program pace
Eligibility (Consolidation)
Credit/income required for loan approval
Eligibility (Settlement)
No credit requirement; based on hardship & balances
Credit Impact (Consolidation)
Hard inquiry; on-time loan payments can help over time
Credit Impact (Settlement)
Possible late marks during negotiations; scores may dip before improving
Goal (Consolidation)
Lower rates and simplify into one fixed payment
Goal (Settlement)
Reduce balances owed through negotiated settlements
These examples illustrate how each program works. Actual results vary; we’ll personalize your plan during your secure estimate.