To be greeted with an abundance of information on a debt settlement company website is an encouragement to us. Total Debt Services is at least interested enough in your business that they provide good, solid information about what they do and how you can get more information.The other fact that is made plain on their website is that they have two sister companies: Belvedere Mortgage and Total Insurance. They will also try to get you to use these companies as well. Not in an under-handed way, but as a course of offering additional services. They are up-front about their intentions.

Quick facts about Total Debt Services:

Founded in: April 2002

Years in Business: 7

Number of employees: Not disclosed.

BBB Rating: D

BBB complaints: there have been 10 complaints in the last 36 months. The categories of these complaints were: contract issues, sales practices, services issues, customer service, refund or exchange, and one undefined issue. Of these ten, six were resolved. The fact that they have unresolved complaints is the main reason for their low rating.

Free Information: Their website has a lot of good information, but you should also call them and find out more information via their toll-free number.

Escrow or Payment Plan Available: They are not very clear on this but they do state that you will be making monthly payments.

Source of Funds: Your monthly payments.

Fee Structure: 15% of the total amount of debt that is entered into their program. They also state that it depends on the customers’ debt load, so it could be a sliding fee based on the settlement amount, too.

Avg Settlement: Not disclosed.

Refund Policy: They do offer a refund guarantee but there are certain rules and you must be eligible by being enrolled into the program for at least 24 months. That sounds a bit restrictive to us.

About the Company

This company is based out of the Dallas, Texas area and is one of the longer tenured companies coming in at 7 years. That is always a positive reason to do business with them.

Beginning the Process

You can apply online via their website, or call their toll-free number.

Types of Debt Serviced

Unsecured only.

Worth Noting

Their sister companies are worth finding out about, too. They seem to compliment them rather than being in competition with them.

Program Caution and Your Responsibilities

You must read and heed all documentation about this debt settlement company and be sure to perform to the letter of your contract.

Will Debt Collectors Still Call?

Yes, but they work with you in order to get them to stop.

Other Information

Again, another company that is worth a call. It appears that there is a good effort on their part to disclose what they do and what it will cost. Put this one on your list to contact.