Achieve Security offers debt settlement services to help people reduce and eliminate high interest credit card debt. Helping thousands of people get out of debt the founder, a former CPA for twenty-five years has a solid background in finance and brings with his experience an understanding of debt and the negative consequences that come with this financial burden.

Here are some quick facts about Achieve Security:
Company Founded: May 2004, BBB file opened on July 29, 2004

Years In Business: 5

BBB Rating: C+

BBB Complaints: 23 total complaints processed in the last 36 months with 2 complaints processed in the past year.

Escrow Available: optional

Source of Funds: client savings

Fee Structure: unknown

Avg. % Settlement of Amount Owed: industry standard is 40%-60% of current total debt, however Achieve Security stresses there is no guarantee on settlement amounts.

Refund Policy: retainer fee and monthly service fees are nonrefundable; program fees may be refundable if Achieve Security is unable to negotiate principal reduction or terms reducing final repayment.

Minimum Debt Required: $10,000 unsecured debt with $500 minimum per creditor. They may except lower debt amounts based on individual circumstances.

About the Company

The Better Business Bureau opened a file on this company in July of 2004. Since that time they have processed a total of 23 complaints with all but two of these complaints listed as resolved. Of the two complaints that are not resolved, one is for refund practices and is currently reported as “delayed resolution” and the other is for product quality and is currently reported as “company made every reasonable effort to resolve”. Of the 23 total complaints there were only 2 complaints reported in the last 12 months. Achieve Security is a member of The Association of Settlement Companies, Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce, International Association of Professional Debt Arbitrators and are listed as having a “Gold Profile” on Dun and Bradstreet.

The Program

To get started with their program you need only fill out a form online or contact them via a toll-free telephone number. Your consultation will be at no cost to you and there is no obligation to proceed if you find you either do not qualify or wish to seek alternative debt relief options. They will work with any unsecured debt including credit cards, medical bills and personal loans. The program is standard in the industry and involves negotiating a lower payment than the full balance owed. Creditors are not guaranteed to agree to a settlement but in many cases they will accept a reduced payment versus dealing with a client who otherwise has to file for bankruptcy.

Program Cost

While the website claims they offer competitive rates, the fee structure is not clearly outlined on the website. The website does mention retainer, program and monthly maintenance fees so any potential client should clearly ask and understand what these fees are and when they are applied. They mention that savings accounts are optional, however almost all debt settlement companies require a third party account be opened in which to deposit monthly payments for savings as well as fees.

Website Experience

The website is attractive and easy to navigate which makes finding information simple for those who may not regularly use a computer. They cover most of the important issues that arise when considering debt settlement and address the risks and negative consequences. The balance of useful information and additional educational information is helpful for visitors considering this process and provides enough information without crossing over into information overload. Upon searching the Internet for more information I did come across a complaint on ripoffreport.com, however it appears the real issue was a miscommunication of program fees and the steps involved. This is extremely common in the debt settlement industry which means anyone considering this process MUST fully understand the process and consequences before enrolling in a program. Whether or not this company is a “ripoff” is not something I can determine, however it should be pointed out that debt settlement is considered the last resort before filing for bankruptcy. If you are able to pay your bills you should certainly do so and avoid the possible credit, tax and legal issues that could result from this process.