Individuals seeking the services of a debt settlement company are usually those who are experiencing difficulty paying their monthly credit card bills.
If you find yourself in this situation, it's important to beware of debt settlement scams that could potentially land you in a worse position than that in which you currently find yourself.
Don't get me wrong; I'm all for debt settlement - BUT - only if you happen to be a good candidate for this form of debt relief.
I've talked with many consumers over the past several years who have been misled by slick salesmen trying to convince these individuals that debt settlement is a magical solution to all of their money problems.
While debt settlement is a very viable form of debt relief for many people, it's not for everyone.
So, might you be a good candidate for debt settlement? Perhaps.
If you're finding it increasingly difficult to meet your monthly financial obligations, you obviously need to find a solution to your financial problems.
You may want to consider debt settlement if you meet the following criteria:

• Your credit card accounts are delinquent, or soon will be, and long-term payment arrangements with your creditors simply are not feasible.
  
• You have access to funds, either through a loan from family members or friends, 401k, personal savings, inheritance etc.
  Obviously, if settlement agreements are reached with your creditors, whereby they have agreed to accept less than the full balance as payment in full, funds for the settlement will be due by a certain date, to be determined by the creditor.
  Oftentimes, creditors will agree to accept the payment via 3-6 monthly installments.
  
• You understand that patience is required, as the entire debt negotiation process can take anywhere from 6 to 30 months, depending on your personal situation.
  
• You have a strong desire to eliminate your debt, and can remain focused on this goal until your final account is settled in full.
  

If you clearly understand this criteria, and believe that you would be a good candidate for this form of debt relief, please be sure to do your homework.
I urge you to talk with several debt negotiation companies to ensure that you choose an honest company that will have only your road to a debt-free lifestyle as their number one goal.