If you make a purchase after clicking on links within this article, Lee Enterprises may earn affiliate commissions. The news and editorial departments had no role in the creation or display of this content.听All opinions and views are of the advertiser.
Sorting through debt relief options can feel overwhelming. You鈥檙e not just looking for a solution, you鈥檙e looking for a听听that actually delivers. One that doesn鈥檛 promise the moon but quietly and consistently helps people climb out of a financial mess and into a better place.
In 2025, with inflation still squeezing wallets and credit card rates creeping upward, more Americans are sharing their experiences with these services 鈥 and it鈥檚 giving potential clients valuable insight. Below, we鈥檝e reviewed five of the听best debt relief companies听this year, paying close attention to what real customers are saying, not just what鈥檚 in the brochure.
1. Freedom Debt Relief
Most Trusted Overall 鈥 Real Help, Real People
.
Of all the options on this list, Freedom Debt Relief shows up in reviews again and again, for all the right reasons. Customers routinely mention how simple the onboarding process is and how clearly everything is explained. That matters when you鈥檙e already under financial stress.
One user review from earlier this year put it plainly:听鈥Great job explaining the process and my responsibilities needed to succeed in this program.鈥
Freedom specializes in settling unsecured debts like credit cards, medical bills, and personal loans. Their team negotiates directly with creditors, aiming to reduce what鈥檚 owed, and they give you a personalized plan that you can actually follow. Their online dashboard helps keep things transparent: no guesswork, no mystery fees.
In 2025, with more people sharing positive experiences, Freedom continues to lead as a debt relief company that people actually trust.
.
What people like:
- Clear communication, no pressure
- Helpful online tools to track progress
- Team walks you through every step
What to keep in mind:
- Debt settlement can lower your credit score, especially early on
- Creditors may not always agree to settle
- You could owe taxes on any forgiven debt
Bottom line:听Freedom is a strong option for people with a minimum $7,500+ in unsecured debt, but it鈥檚 not a magic fix. Knowing the risks upfront makes it easier to decide if this is your best move.
2. National Debt Relief
Best for Credit Card Balances
National Debt Relief receives high marks for helping clients resolve large credit card debts 鈥 FAST. Several reviewers mentioned they saw progress within the first 60鈥90 days. The tradeoff? A potential short-term decrease in credit score. But for many, it鈥檚 a worthwhile exchange for long-term relief.
Pros:
- Speedy settlements in some cases
- Great option for high-interest credit card debt
Cons:
- Early settlements may cause a credit decline
- Monthly deposits must be maintained to stay on track
3. Accredited Debt Relief
Best for Flexibility and Communication
People juggling fluctuating incomes appreciate Accredited鈥檚 approach. Many clients praised the ability to adjust monthly payments or pause plans temporarily when needed. Their customer service reps were described as 鈥渞eal people who listen,鈥 which isn鈥檛 something you hear every day in the finance world.
Upsides:
- Customizable plans
- Personalized service
Watch for:
- Some users noted delays in responses during peak periods
- Like others, success depends partly on creditor participation
4. CuraDebt
Best for Tax and Business Debt Relief
For those dealing with IRS debt or business-related liabilities, CuraDebt is a standout. Reviews mention their expertise in negotiating tax issues, and several small business owners said it was the only听debt relief company听that truly understood their situation.
Strengths:
- IRS negotiation experience
- Specialized help for non-consumer debt
Tradeoffs:
- More complex cases take longer
- Fewer reviews available than bigger firms
5. Pacific Debt Relief
Best for Personal Support
Pacific doesn鈥檛 just offer debt solutions; they offer relationships. Many users said they felt like someone was 鈥渋n their corner鈥 throughout the process. Their account managers are known for following up, explaining next steps, and being honest about what to expect.
Pros:
- Great client communication
- Solid reputation for honesty
Cons:
- Not ideal for small debt amounts
- May charge higher fees than some competitors
Final Thoughts: What Customers Are Saying Matters
Here鈥檚 the truth: when you鈥檙e deep in debt, you don鈥檛 want fluff. You want results. And you want to hear from people who鈥檝e been where you are. In 2025, real reviews are pointing toward a few key players, with standing out for its professionalism, honesty, and long-term support.
Ready to explore your options? Start with a no-pressure consultation from a that鈥檚 earned its reputation the right way.
