SoFi

If a debt goes unpaid for long enough, it can eventually end up with a collection agency. That’s when the aggressive phone calls and letters usually start. Hearing from a debt collector can feel stressful, overwhelming, and even scary. However, it doesn’t have to be. Understanding how debt collection agencies work — and what your rights are — can help you navigate a difficult situation with more confidence and less panic.

Below, we break down what collection agencies actually do, how they’re different from debt buyers, what steps you should take if you’re contacted, and how this process can affect your credit.

How Does Debt Collection Work?

Debt collection is the process of pursuing payment on overdue debts. Having a “debt in collections” means the original creditor (such as a credit card company, an auto lender, or a utility) has sent the debt to a third-party person or agency to collect it.

Typically, a debt doesn’t go to collections if you miss one payment. If nonpayment goes on for a while (typically 90 to 180 days), however, the original creditor may decide to give up trying to collect from you and write the debt off as a loss. This process is known as a charge-off. At that point, they will usually do one of two things: assign the debt to a third-party debt collection agency or sell it to a debt buyer.

Once the debt is transferred or sold, the collection process intensifies. You may start receiving letters, phone calls, or emails from the debt collector. Their goal is to recover as much of the debt as possible, either in full, through a payment plan, or via a negotiated settlement.

💡 Quick Tip: Everyone’s talking about capping credit card interest rates. But it’s easy to swap high-interest debt for a lower-interest personal loan. SoFi credit card consolidation loans are so popular because they’re cheaper, safer, and more transparent.

What Is a Debt Collector?

A debt collector is any individual or company whose primary job is to recover money owed on delinquent accounts. They might be part of a collection agency, a law firm specializing in collections, or an in-house department of the original creditor.

Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, debt settlement companies are required to follow strict guidelines when contacting consumers. They are prohibited from using abusive, deceptive, or unfair practices. For example, they can’t call before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m., harass you, or misrepresent themselves.

Recommended: What Is the Difference Between Personal Loan vs Credit Card Debt?

What Do Collection Agencies Do?

Collection agencies work on behalf of creditors to recover unpaid debts. Generally the way they make money is by receiving a percentage — usually between 25% and 50% — of the amount they recover. Commissions tend to be on the higher end of that range for older debts, since they are more difficult to collect.

Collection agencies can — and do — use a variety of tactics to recover funds, including:

•  Calling you at home or work

•  Sending letters, text, or emails

•  Contacting you through social media

•  Showing up at your front door

•  Contacting your friends and family to confirm your contact information (they can’t do this more than once, however, or reveal why they need the information)

•  Take you to court to recover a past-due debt

When dealing with collections, it’s important to keep in mind that there is a statute of limitations on debt. Collectors generally have between three to six years to file a lawsuit over old debts (the timeline varies by where you live and type of debt). The clock starts when your debt was first recorded delinquent. After the statute of limitations ends, a collection agency cannot legally sue you for the debt. They can, however, still hound you for the money.

How Is This Different from a Debt Buyer?

A debt buyer doesn’t work for the creditor like a debt collection agency does. They buy debts that have been charged off by creditors, sometimes buying a collection of old debts from a single creditor. How much these collectors pay for debt varies but it can be as little as a few cents on the dollar.

Because debt collectors own the debt, they generally have more freedom to negotiate than collection agencies that are merely collecting on someone else’s behalf. Also because they often pay so little for debt, any recovery can represent a profit.

Like debt collection agencies, debt buyers sometimes use aggressive tactics to collect a debt. However, they are subject to the same state and federal laws designed to protect borrowers from harassment.

Recommended: Credit Card Debt Collection: What Is It and How Does It Work?

How to Deal With a Debt in Collections

Finding out that a debt is in collections can be alarming. However, taking deliberate, informed steps can help protect your finances and your rights.

Verify the Debt

Before paying anything, it’s important to always verify the debt. Debt collectors are required by law to send you a debt validation notice within five days of contacting you. This notice should include:

•  The debt collector’s name and address

•  The name of the creditor

•  The amount owed

•  What to do if you don’t think it’s your debt

•  Your debt collection rights

If you’re unsure about the validity of the debt or the amount, send a written request for verification within 30 days. This forces the agency to provide documentation proving the debt is legitimate. If the debt is not valid, you can dispute it with the collector.

Negotiate a Payment Plan or Settlement

If the debt is legitimate, consider negotiating. Many collectors are willing to accept a lump-sum settlement for less than the full balance, especially if they purchased the debt cheaply. Alternatively, you might be able to arrange a payment plan that fits your budget.

When negotiating, be sure to consider your financial situation and avoid agreeing to any terms you can’t realistically meet. Once you sign off on a payment plan or make a payment on old debt, it restarts the clock on the statute of limitations.

Get Agreements in Writing

Before sending any money to a collection agency, make sure you have a written agreement that outlines the terms. This document should specify the amount to be paid, the payment schedule, and whether the agency will report the account as “paid in full” or “settled” to credit bureaus.

Getting agreements in writing protects you from future disputes and ensures you have proof of compliance.

How Does a Debt in Collections Affect Your Credit?

Missed payments on a debt already negatively impact your credit profile. When a debt goes into collections, the situation typically worsens.

When the original creditor decides to stop trying to collect on your debt and closes your account, the charge-off goes on your credit report. Once the debt goes to collections and the debt collector sends you a notice, the collector will create a new collection account, which also lands on your credit report.

Both the charge-off and the collection account are negative entries, and can cause an immediate drop in your credit scores of 50 to 100 points, possibly more.

While paying the debt collector will not remove the collection account from your credit report, it’s generally a good idea to do so. For one reason, some newer credit scoring models ignore collection accounts with a zero balance. Potential lenders also tend to view paid-off collection accounts more favorably when they check your credit report as part of a credit application. On top of that, you’ll no longer be harassed by the debt collection company.

Alternatives to Debt Collection Agencies

You can avoid having debt land in collections by taking steps to manage and pay down existing debt. Here are some strategies to consider.

Consumer Credit Counseling Services

Nonprofit credit counseling agencies offer free or low-cost services to help you gain better control of your finances. You can often get counseling, budgeting advice, and credit education from a certified counselor free of charge.

For an added fee, a counselor can also set up a debt management plan. This means they will negotiate with creditors on your behalf to lower your interest rates and fees and establish a payment plan that works for you. They then consolidate your payments into one monthly amount. You make a single payment to the counseling agency, which distributes the funds to your creditors.

Debt Settlement

If you’re more than 90 days past due on a debt and suffering financial hardship, you might consider debt settlement, also known as debt relief. This is a strategy where you negotiate with your creditors to lower your debt in return for one lump sum payment. You can try this yourself or hire a debt settlement company, though the latter often charges high fees and may not guarantee success.

Just keep in mind that settling a debt can negatively affect your credit file, since settled accounts stay on your credit report for up to seven years. However, for those overwhelmed by debt, it may be preferable to ongoing collections or bankruptcy.

Debt Consolidation

Debt consolidation involves combining multiple debts — typically high-interest debts like credit card balances — into a single loan or credit account. The main goal with this debt payoff strategy is to simplify repayment and potentially lower the interest rate or monthly payments. Some common ways to consolidate debt include:

•   Debt consolidation loans: These are essentially personal loans that are used to pay off other debts and rates tend to be lower than credit cards.

•   Balance transfer credit cards: These are credit cards that let you move balances from others cards; some offer a 0% introductory rate.

•   Home equity loans or lines of credit: This involves borrowing against your home equity to pay off debts.

Before you consolidate debt, it’s important to look closely at rates and any added fees to make sure the move will be cost effective.

💡 Quick Tip: Before choosing a personal loan, ask about the lender’s fees: origination, prepayment, late fees, etc. One question can save you many dollars.

Bankruptcy as a Last Resort

Personal bankruptcy is a legal process designed to provide relief for people facing severe financial difficulties who are unable to repay their debts. There are two main types for individuals:

•   Chapter 7: This allows you to discharge most types of unsecured debt, such as credit card balances and medical bills, but you must first liquidate non-exempt assets to repay as much of the debt as possible.

•   Chapter 13: This allows you to restructure your debt under a new repayment plan that usually spans three to five years.

Keep in mind that bankruptcy has serious long-term credit consequences. It stays on your credit report for seven to 10 years (seven for Chapter 13 and 10 for Chapter 7), making future borrowing more difficult.

The Takeaway

If you’ve gotten a phone call or letter from a debt collector, it’s important to understand how debt collection agencies work and how to handle debt in collections. Ignoring a collector won’t make the debt go away. Instead, it’s better to gather as much information as possible to make informed decisions.

If you’re struggling with multiple high-interest debts, keep in mind that there are options available to help regain control of your finances.

Credit cards have an average APR of 20%–25%, and your balance can sit for years with almost no principal reduction. Personal loan interest rates average 12%, with a guaranteed payoff date in 2 to 7 years. If you’re carrying a balance of $5,000 or more on a high-interest credit card, consider a SoFi Personal Loan instead. See your rate in minutes.

SoFi’s Personal Loan was named a NerdWallet 2026 winner for Best Personal Loan for Large Loan Amounts.

FAQ

What rights do you have when dealing with a collection agency?

When dealing with a collection agency, you have rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Collectors must treat you fairly and cannot harass, threaten, or lie to you. They must identify themselves, provide proof of the debt if requested, and cannot contact you at inconvenient times (such as before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m.). You also have the right to request all communication in writing and to dispute the debt within 30 days of first contact.

Can a debt collector sue you or garnish wages?

Yes, a debt collector can sue you for unpaid debt. If they win the lawsuit, they may obtain a court judgment allowing wage garnishment. However, collectors must notify you and give you a chance to respond. State and federal laws also limit how much a creditor can garnish from your wages. Always respond to legal notices promptly, and consider speaking with an attorney or credit counselor if you’re being sued over a debt.

How do you remove a collection from your credit report?

To remove a collection from your credit report, start by checking if it’s accurate. If it’s incorrect or too old (over seven years), you can dispute it with the credit bureau. For valid collections you’ve paid, you might request a “goodwill deletion” after you’ve paid it. This involves calling or writing to the collection agency and asking to have the account deleted as a gesture of goodwill. They don’t have to comply, but they might.

Does paying off collections improve your credit score?

It might. Some credit scoring models consider accounts in collections, even if they are paid. However, newer FICO and VantageScore models ignore paid collections, which means paying them off can be beneficial. Regardless, settling or paying off collections looks better to lenders and can help you qualify for credit in the future. It also prevents further action, like lawsuits. Always ask for a written confirmation of payment or settlement.

What’s the difference between a debt collector and a debt buyer?

A debt collector is a company hired by a creditor to collect money on their behalf. They don’t own the debt but earn a fee or commission for collecting payment. A debt buyer, on the other hand, purchases delinquent debts from original creditors, often for pennies on the dollar, and then owns the debt outright. Your rights remain the same under both.

---

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

SOPL-Q325-008

Read more

If you carry some debt, you’re not alone. The total household debt in the U.S. rose to $18.59 trillion in the third quarter of 2025, according to the latest statistics from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.That includes everything from mortgages to credit card balances to student loans.

If you’re among the ranks of those with outstanding debt and want to pay it off, here are strategies to help you do just that.

What Is Considered Outstanding Debt?

Outstanding debt refers to any balance on a debt that has yet to be paid in full. It is money that is owed to a bank or other creditor.

When calculating debt that’s outstanding, you simply add all debt balances together. This could include credit cards, student loans, mortgage loans, payday loans, personal loans, home equity lines of credit, auto loans, and others. You should be able to find outstanding balance information on your statements.

Recommended: What Is the 10 Percent Credit Card Interest Rate Cap Act?

Types of Outstanding Debt

Outstanding debt can take a few different forms. Here are some key types to know about:

•   Secured debt: This is debt that’s backed by an asset or collateral. For instance, with a mortgage, your home is the collateral; with an auto loan, your car secures the loan. If you default on your loan, the lender may seize your collateral.

•   Unsecured debt: This is a debt that is not backed by collateral. The lender offers you money, to be paid back with interest, based on their evaluation of your creditworthiness. Examples of this kind of debt include most personal loans as well as credit card balances.

•   Revolving debt: With this kind of debt, you can borrow up to a certain limit. Credit cards and HELOCs (home equity lines of credit) are examples of this kind of debt. If, say, you have a $10,000 limit and you spend $9,000 of it, you only have $1,000 remaining to access. But if you make a payment of $3,000 toward your debt, you’ll have $4,000 available to spend.

•   Installment debt: With installment debt, the lender disburses a lump sum, which the borrower pays back over time with interest. Examples of this kind of outstanding debt include mortgages and personal loans.

Recommended: What Is the Average Debt by Age?

How to Find Outstanding Debt

When paying off outstanding debt, a good first step is to track it all down and account for it to understand the total.

As you move through your debt payoff journey, you may find it helpful to start a file (hard copies or digital) for your statements and correspondence. Also, you could create a list or input information into a spreadsheet. Organizing your information is necessary for building a debt payoff strategy.

It can be a good idea to build a list of all debts with the most useful information, such as the outstanding balance, the interest rate, the monthly payment, the type of debt, and the creditor. If you have an installment loan, such as a personal loan, the principal amount of the loan is another helpful piece of information.

What If I Can’t Find All My Outstanding Debts?

If you feel as though you’ve lost track of some debts, you may want to start by requesting a credit report.

Checking Credit Reports and Account Statements

In this case, you’ll want to get your credit report from at least one of the three major reporting agencies, Experian®, TransUnion®, or Equifax®. You are currently legally entitled to one free copy of your credit report from each of the three agencies per week. It’s easy to request a credit report from AnnualCreditReport.com.

(If you’re curious about just your score, you might also see if your financial institution offers credit score monitoring. This could be an easy way to keep tabs on your creditworthiness.)

A credit report includes information about each account that has been reported to that particular agency, including the name of the creditor and the outstanding debt balance.

It is possible that some outstanding debts may have been sold to a collection agency. The name of the original creditor may be included on the credit report. Some outstanding debts, however, may not appear on a credit report. Creditors are not required to report to the agencies, but most major creditors do. That said, a creditor could choose to report to none, one, two, or all three of the agencies. If you’re in information-collecting mode, you may want to consider requesting reports from more than one agency or from all three.

Another step in accounting for outstanding debt is to review all the account statements that may come your way, scan your checking account statements for automatic withdrawals (for example, for any payment plans you may have forgotten about), and review payment apps. This can help you see what debt you are carrying.

Outstanding Debt Amounts

Aside from how a debt is structured — revolving or installment debt; installment or lump sum — it can also be thought of as “good” debt or “bad” debt.

•   Good debt: Generally, if borrowing money (and thus incurring debt) enhances your net worth, it’s considered good debt. A mortgage is one example of this. Even though you might incur debt to purchase a home, the value of the home will likely increase. As it does, and as you pay down the mortgage balance, your net worth has the potential to increase.

•   Bad debt: On the other hand, if debt taken on to purchase something that will depreciate, or lose value, over time, that is considered bad debt. Going into debt to purchase consumer goods, such as cars or clothing, will not enhance your net worth.

In terms of how much outstanding debt is too much, know this: Each person has a unique financial situation, level of comfort with debt, and ability to repay debt. What one person may be able to justify may be completely unacceptable to another.

How Does an Outstanding Debt Impact Your Credit?

Outstanding debt can impact your credit in a few ways. Here’s a closer look.

Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI)

During loan processing, lenders may consider the applicant’s debt-to-income ratio (DTI), which compares how much you owe each month to how much you earn. Lenders will often look at this number to determine their potential risk of lending. Different lenders have different stipulations about this ratio, so asking a potential lender about theirs is a good idea.

Calculating DTI is done by dividing monthly debt payments by gross monthly income.

•   Monthly debt payments can include rent or mortgage payment, homeowners association fee, car payment, student loan payment, and other monthly payments. (Typically, monthly expenses such as utilities, food, or auto expenses other than a car loan payment are not included in this calculation.)

•   Gross income is the amount of money you earn before taxes and other deductions are taken out of your paycheck.

Someone with monthly debt payments of $2,000 and a gross monthly income of $8,000 would have a DTI of 25% ($2,000 divided by $8,000 is 25%).

Generally, a DTI of 35% or less is considered a healthy balance of debt to income.

Credit Utilization Ratio

Another way that debt impacts your credit: your credit utilization ratio. This ratio expresses how much of your revolving credit limit you are using. For instance, if your credit limit on your two credit cards totals $40,000 and you are carrying a balance of $10,000, your ratio is 25%. You are using a quarter of what is available.

Ideally, a person’s credit utilization would be 10% of less, but up to 30% is considered acceptable. Go over that amount, and lenders may see you as financially unstable and living beyond your means. This can negatively impact their willingness to extend more credit at a favorable rate.

Payment History and Delinquencies

Whether you pay your bills on time also impacts your credit. Making payments on time is the single most important factor when it comes to your credit score. It accounts for 35% of your rating. In fact, late (or delinquent) payments that are reported to the credit bureaus can stay on your report for seven years, although their impact can diminish over time if you make timely payments.

It can be wise to use autopay or set up reminders to ensure you don’t pay your creditors late or skip payments entirely.

Should I Pay Down Outstanding Debt?

Barring extenuating circumstances, it’s a good idea to make regular, consistent payments on your debt. Whether or not you decide to pay the debt back on an expedited schedule is up to you.

Some may not feel the need to aggressively tackle their outstanding debt. They may be just fine to continue paying off a balance until the loan’s maturity date. This may apply to people with manageable debt payments, those who have debts with lower interest rates, or those focusing on other financial goals.

For example, someone with a low-interest-rate mortgage loan may not feel the need to pay it down faster than the agreed-upon schedule. So they continue to make regular, scheduled payments that make up a manageable percentage of their monthly budget. Therefore, they are able to work on other financial goals in tandem, such as saving for retirement or starting a fund for a child’s college.

Other scenarios may call for a more aggressive strategy to pay down debt. Some reasons to consider an expedited plan:

•   Your debt levels, and therefore monthly payments, feel unmanageable.

•   You’re carrying debts with higher interest rates, like credit cards.

•   You want to avoid missed payments and added fees.

•   You simply want to have zero debt.

You’ll also want to keep in mind that carrying a large debt load could negatively affect your credit. One factor in a credit score calculation is the ratio between outstanding debt balances and available credit on revolving debt, like a credit card — the credit utilization rate.

Using no more than 30% of your available credit is recommended. So, if a person has a $5,000 credit limit on a card, that would mean using no more than $1,500 at any given time throughout the month. Using more could result in a ding on their credit score.

Carrying debt also means paying interest. While some interest may not be avoidable, it’s generally a sound financial strategy to pay as little in interest as possible.

Credit cards tend to have some of the highest interest rates on unsecured debt. The average interest rate on a credit card was almost 22% according to Experian as of November 2025. With high rates, it’s worth seriously considering paring back debt balances.

Outstanding Debt Management Strategies

The next step is to pick a debt reduction plan.

Two popular strategies for paying off debt are called the debt snowball and the debt avalanche. Both ask that you isolate one source of debt to focus on first.

Simply put, you’ll make extra payments or payments larger than the minimum monthly payment on that debt until the outstanding balance is eliminated. You’ll continue making the minimum monthly payment on all your other debts.

Debt Snowball

A debt snowball payoff plan involves listing all of your debt in order of size, from smallest to largest, ignoring interest rate. You then put extra funds towards the debt with the smallest balance, while making the minimum required payments on the rest. Once that debt is paid off, you put extra money towards the next-smallest debt, and so on.

The idea here is that there’s a psychological boost when a card is paid off, so it makes sense to go after the smallest first. That way, when a person works up to the card with the next highest balance, they can focus singularly on it, without a bunch of annoying, smaller payments getting in the way of the ultimate goal.

It’s called a snowball because the strategy starts small, gaining momentum as it goes.

Debt Avalanche

Alternatively, the debt avalanche method starts by listing debt in order of interest rate, from highest to lowest. You then put extra money towards the debt with the highest interest rate. Because this source of debt costs the most to maintain, it is a natural place to focus. Once that debt is paid off, you focus your extra payments towards the debt with the next-highest interest rate.

The debt avalanche is the debt payoff strategy of choice for those who prefer to look at things from a purely mathematical standpoint. For example, if a person has one credit card with a 27% annual percentage rate (APR) and another with a 22% APR, they’d focus on that 27% card with any extra payments, no matter the balance.

Of course, it is also possible to modify these strategies to suit personal preferences and needs. For example, if one source of debt has a prepayment penalty, maybe it drops to the bottom of the list. If there’s a particular credit card you tend to overspend with, perhaps that’s a good one to focus on.

Debt Consolidation Strategy

The two methods described above aren’t your only options. You might also pursue debt consolidation, in which you combine multiple debts into a single, more convenient loan, possibly with a lower interest rate.

For example, if you are carrying a balance on two or three credit cards, you might apply for a personal loan to pay off credit card debt. In this case, the debt consolidation loan, if approved, would be used to pay off the credit card balances. Then, instead of making monthly payments to the credit card companies, you would pay just your personal loan. This can simplify your financial life, and the new loan could offer a lower interest rate vs. credit cards.

Outstanding Debt Payoff Methods

Once you decide on a strategy, whether it’s one discussed above or something that works better for your financial situation, you’ll need to figure out where the money will come from to pay down outstanding debt.

A good first step is to simply list your monthly income and expenses. If you find that you have enough money to begin making extra payments toward your outstanding debt balances, then you might choose to start right away.

Some people choose to keep a 30-day spending diary to get a clear picture of what they spend their money on. This can be a good way to pinpoint areas you might be able to cut back on to have more money to apply to outstanding debt.

If your existing budget is already tight and won’t accommodate extra payments, you might consider looking for some other financial strategies.

Increasing Income

Sometimes the answer is to make more money. Granted, this can be easier said than done. But some people can get a part-time job, start a side hustle, or sell things they no longer need or want to raise cash. You might also think about looking for a new, higher-paying job or asking for a raise at your current job.

Using Personal Savings

Tapping into money you’ve saved can be another way to pay down outstanding debt. Savings account interest rates, even high-yield savings accounts, generally pay much less interest than you’re paying on your outstanding debts. Keeping enough money in a savings account as an emergency fund is recommended, but if you have a surplus in your personal savings, putting that money toward your debt balances is a good way to make headway on outstanding debt.

Consolidating With a Credit Card

Using a credit card to pay off debt may seem like an unwise choice, but it can make sense in some situations. If your credit score is healthy enough to qualify for a credit card with a zero- or low-interest promotional rate, you might consider transferring a higher-rate balance to a card like this.

The benefit of this strategy is having a lower interest rate during the promotional period, potentially resulting in savings on the overall debt.

There are some drawbacks to credit card balance transfers though. One is that promotional periods are limited, and if you don’t pay the balance in full during this period, the remaining debt will revert to the card’s regular rate. Also, it’s typical for a promotional-rate card to charge a balance transfer fee, which can range from 3% to 5%, or more, of the balance transferred. This fee will increase the amount you will have to repay.

Consolidating With a Personal Loan

As noted above, using one new loan to pay off multiple outstanding debt balances is another debt payoff method. A personal loan with a lower overall rate of interest and a straightforward repayment plan can be a good way to do this.

In addition to one fixed monthly payment, a debt consolidation loan provides another benefit — the balance cannot easily be increased, as with a credit card. It’s easy to swipe a credit card for an additional purchase, potentially undoing the progress you’ve made on your debt repayment plan.

To consolidate your outstanding debt with a personal loan, you might want to look around at different lenders to get a sense of what interest rates they might offer for you. Typically, lenders will provide a few options, including loans of different lengths.

💡 Quick Tip: Credit card interest rates average 20%-25%, versus 12% for a personal loan. And with loan repayment terms of 2 to 7 years, you’ll pay down your debt faster. With a SoFi personal loan for credit card debt, who needs credit card rate caps?

Negotiating With Creditors

One other alternative is to reach out to creditors and try to negotiate with them. Some lenders may be interested in negotiating with borrowers who are struggling with debt. Doing so can help them recoup some if not all of the money they are owed. You might call your creditor, explain your situation, and see if they will reduce your interest rate, shift your loan terms, pause payments for a time, or otherwise help you pay what you can.

There are also debt settlement companies that are third parties. These offer to negotiate with creditors on your behalf, often advising clients to withhold payments for a period of time, which can cause their credit score to drop. Proceed with caution as these companies can charge high fees and results are not guaranteed.

When to Seek Professional Help

In some situations, you may want to get professional help with your debt. Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed, barely able to make minimum payments, dealing with collections agencies, and finding the amount you owe rising. When this kind of stressful scenario occurs, you may find relief by reaching out for qualified assistance.

There are several types of professionals who might help. You could reach out to a nonprofit credit counseling agency (NFCC and FCAA are two to consider) for guidance on managing your debt. You could consult a financial advisor or financial therapist for advice and insights into how you can avoid future debts. If you are facing legal action, such as foreclosure, a debt attorney could be your best resource.

Do check references and make sure you are working with a well-regarded professional or organization so this difficult situation doesn’t become more challenging.

The Takeaway

Outstanding debt can be a heavy burden. Many people owe large amounts of debt but don’t know how to start making a dent in their balances. A good place to begin is by identifying your current income and expenses to see your overall financial picture. From there, you may decide to focus on paying down certain debts over others. You can then choose the best paydown method for your financial situation, whether that means using the debt avalanche technique or taking out a personal loan.

Credit cards have an average APR of 20%–25%, and your balance can sit for years with almost no principal reduction. Personal loan interest rates average 12%, with a guaranteed payoff date in 2 to 7 years. If you’re carrying a balance of $5,000 or more on a high-interest credit card, consider a SoFi Personal Loan instead. See your rate in minutes.

SoFi’s Personal Loan was named a NerdWallet 2026 winner for Best Personal Loan for Large Loan Amounts.

FAQ

What is the best method to pay off outstanding debt?

There is no single best method to pay off outstanding debt. Much depends on an individual’s unique situation and financial profile. For some, a debt snowball or avalanche method works well; others will prefer a debt consolidation loan, balance transfer card, or a consultation with a credit counseling agency. Research your options to find the best fit.

Can outstanding debt be negotiated or settled?

Yes, you may be able to negotiate or settle outstanding debt. You can contact your creditors directly yourself, or work with a debt settlement company (but be sure you understand the fees involved and that they may not be successful). In these situations, you can expect your credit score to be significantly lowered.

Does paying off outstanding debt build your credit score?

Yes, paying off outstanding debt typically has a positive impact on your credit score. This happens because you are lowering your credit utilization, meaning you are not owing as much vs. your credit limits. However, paying off debt could trigger a small decrease in your score as well, since it might reduce your credit history and mix, which contribute to your score.

How long does outstanding debt stay on your credit report?

Negative debt information can stay on your credit report for up to seven years and, in the case of bankruptcies, up to 10 years.

What happens if you ignore outstanding debt?

Ignoring outstanding debt can lead to serious financial and legal consequences. For instance, your credit score could drop significantly, collection agencies could pursue payment, you might have your salary garnished, and/or you could face the loss of an asset used as collateral on a loan.

---

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

*Awards or rankings from NerdWallet are not indicative of future success or results. This award and its ratings are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.
This article is not intended to be legal advice. Please consult an attorney for advice.

Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

SOPL-Q425-061

Read more

Being debt-free can be a terrific feeling of freedom. However, many of us don’t know that sensation. As of 2025, Americans carry a record $18 trillion in debt, with most of that reflecting mortgages. High-interest credit card debt rings in at almost $6,500 per person. Paying off the amount that you owe — whether it’s credit card debt, student loans, or something else — can be a considerable challenge.

While each person’s finances are different, there are smart strategies to pay off debt effectively and quickly. That will not only likely reduce your money stress and improve your finances, it can also free up funds to help you achieve some big-picture goals, whether that means funding a wedding or growing your toddler’s college fund.

Here, you’ll learn why it’s important to pay off debt, the best how-tos, and tips for managing debt as you work to shake it off.

Why Is It Important to Pay Off Debt?

Granted, not all debt should necessarily be paid off ASAP. There’s “good debt,” which is typically lower interest and can have a positive impact on your financial status. For example, if you have a mortgage, that is likely low-interest and it is helping you build equity and, by extension, your net worth.

However, there is also “bad debt” of the high interest variety, like credit card debt, which can wind up having a negative effect on your finances and your life. Some examples of why this kind of debt can be problematic:

•  It takes up funds that could otherwise be put towards long-term goals like retirement or short-term goals, such as a vacation fund.

•  It gives you more bills to pay.

•  It can cause you stress.

•  It can have a negative impact on your credit score, which can have further ramifications, such as making it more expensive to open other lines of credit.

•  It means you are subject to the lender’s decisions (such as raising your interest rate).

When you are debt-free, you likely don’t have to deal with those issues any longer. So here are smart debt payoff strategies to help you take control of your money.

1. Create a Budget

A budget can help you understand and create a plan for where your money is going. This is where you can start to figure out how to live within your means to avoid accumulating new or more debt in the future, such as credit card debt.

•  To make your budget, take an inventory of all of your after-tax income. If you have a job, simply look at your net paycheck and multiply the number by how many times you’re paid each month.

•  Next, tally up necessary expenses. These might already include debt payments such as your student loans or a car payment. They can also include rent, utilities, insurance payments, groceries, and so on.

•  Subtract this total from your income and what you have left represents the money available for discretionary spending. If the amount of money you’re spending on discretionary expenses exceeds the amount you have available, you’ll likely need to make some adjustments to how you spend.

•  To pay off debt, focus a portion of the available discretionary income on debt payments. One approach is known as the 20/10 rule, which says that you should put no more than 20% of your annual take-home pay or 10% of your monthly income towards consumer debt.

Recommended: What Is the Difference Between Personal Loan vs Credit Card Debt?

2. Set Realistic Goals

It takes a lot of discipline to get debt-free. Setting measurable and achievable goals can help you stay on track. Think carefully about how much money you actually are able to put toward your debts each month. Include factors like how much spending you can reasonably cut and how much you might be able to add to your income.

Don’t factor in extra income unless you’re sure you’ll be able to come up with it. Once you settle on your monthly amount, you can calculate how many months it will take you to pay your debt off.

For example, say you have $500 dollars per month to help you pay off $10,000 in credit card debt with a 19.99% interest. Using an online credit card payoff calculator, you can determine that it will take you about 25 months to pay off your card. So, a reasonable goal might be two years to get out of debt, which even builds in a little wiggle room if you can’t come up with a full $500 in one of those months.

3. Try a Payoff Method

Once you’ve identified funds you can use to pay down debt, there are a number of strategies you can use to put that money to work towards different debts you’re shouldering.

The Snowball Method

Here’s how the snowball method of debt repayment works:

•  List your debts in order of smallest balance to largest. Look exclusively at the amount you owe, ignoring the interest rate.

•  Make minimum payments on all the debts to avoid penalties. Make all extra payments toward paying off the smallest debt.

•  Once the smallest debt is paid in full, move on to the next largest debt and so on. Use all of the money you were directing toward the previous debt, including minimum and extra payments, to pay off the next smallest. In this way, the amount you’re able to direct toward the larger debts should grow or “snowball.”

One downside to the snowball method is that while targeting your smaller debts first, you may be holding onto your higher interest debts for a longer period of time.

However, you should also theoretically get a psychological boost every time you pay off a debt that helps you build momentum toward paying all of your debts off. And if this extra push can help keep you motivated to continue eliminating debt, the benefits of this strategy might outweigh the extra costs.

The Avalanche Method

The avalanche method takes a slightly different approach:

•  List your debts in order of highest interest rate to lowest. Once again, commit to making minimum payments on all of your debts first.

•  Make any extra payments toward your highest interest rate debt. As you pay each debt off, move on to the next debt with the highest rate. The debt avalanche method minimizes the amount of interest you pay as you work to get debt-free, potentially saving you money in the long-term.

The Fireball Method

This is a hybrid approach to the snowball and avalanche methods:

•  Group your debts by good and bad debt. As noted above, good debts are those that help you build your future net worth, like a mortgage, business loan, or student loan, and typically have lower interest rates. Bad debts have high interest rates and work against your ability to save; think credit card debt. (Btw, credit card debt should always be characterized as bad debt even if you are taking advantage of a 0% interest promotion.)

•  Next, list your bad debts in order from smallest to largest based on balance size. Continue making minimum payments on all debts, but funnel extra cash toward paying off the smallest of the bad debts.

•  Work your way up the list until all your bad debts are paid off. You can pay off your good debts on a regular schedule while investing in your future. Once you’ve blazed through your bad debt, you may even have extra cash to help you accomplish your long-term goals.

Choose the strategy that fits your personality and financial situation to increase the chances for success.

4. Complete a Balance Transfer

A balance transfer allows you to pay off debt from one or more high-interest credit cards (or other high-interest debt) by using a card with a lower interest rate. This strategy has a number of benefits.

•  First, it helps you get organized. Staying on top of one credit card statement might be easier than keeping track of many cards.

•  This strategy also helps you free up the money you were paying toward higher interest rates, which you could use to accelerate your debt payments.

Research what’s available carefully. Some credit cards offer teaser rates as low as 0% for a set period of time, such as six months to a year or even longer. It may make sense to take advantage of one of these deals if you think you can pay down your debt within that time frame.

However, when these teaser rates expire, the card might jump to its regular rate, which could be higher than the rates you were previously paying.

5. Make More Than the Minimum Payment

Credit cards allow you to make minimum payments — small portions of the balance you owe — until your debt is paid off. While this might seem convenient on the surface, this system is stacked in the credit companies’ favor. Making minimum payments can cost more in the long run than making larger payments and paying down debt faster.

That’s because as you make minimum payments, the remaining balance continues to accrue interest. Consider a credit card balance of $5,500 with a 21% interest rate. According to this credit card interest calculator, if you only make minimum payments of $151.25 per month, it will take you 59 months (almost five years!) to pay off your debt of $8,819. And in that time you will have spent $3,319 on interest payments alone.

In an ideal world, you would pay your credit card balance off each month and wouldn’t owe any interest. But, if that’s not possible, consider paying as much as you can to minimize the cost of high interest rates.

6. Find Extra Cash

Finding the cash to pay off your debt can be tough, especially if you’re looking to accelerate your debt payments. The most obvious place to start is by cutting unnecessary expenses.

For example, you might save money on streaming services by dropping some or all of your subscriptions, or give up your gym membership while you’re getting your debt in check. You may also try negotiating lower rates for some necessary expenses such as phone or internet bills, or consider starting a side hustle that can boost your income.

You can also use any money windfalls, such as extra cash from tax returns, bonuses at work, or generous birthday gifts, to help accelerate your debt payments.

7. Avoid Taking on More Debt

While you’re paying off debt, it’s important that you work hard to not add to your debt. If you’re trying to pay off a credit card, you might want to stop using it. You may not want to cancel your credit card, but consider putting it somewhere where it’s not easily accessible. That way you’ll be less tempted to use it for impulse buys.

It can also be helpful to track your spending with a free budget app to help understand where your money is going and how not to increase your debt.

8. Consolidate Debt

Consolidating is another strategy that makes use of lower interest rates to pay off debt.

•  When you take out a loan, it will come with a fixed interest rate and a set term. When you consolidate your debts, you are essentially taking out a new loan to pay off debts, hopefully with a better interest rate or term.

•  A new debt consolidation loan with a lower interest rate can save you money in the long run, especially if you’re carrying a sizable balance. You may also be able to lower your monthly payments to make a budget more manageable on a month to month basis — or you may be able to shorten your terms, which can let you pay off the loan faster. Do keep in mind extending the term of the loan could lead to lower monthly payments but you may end up paying more in interest over time.

•  You may want to consider consolidating if you’ve established your credit history since you took out your loan. That may mean banks are more willing to trust a borrower with a loan and will give them more favorable rates and terms.

•  Also, keep an eye on the prime interest rate set by the Federal Reserve. When the Fed lowers interest rates, banks often follow suit, providing you with a possible chance to find personal loan interest rates that are more favorable.

💡 Quick Tip: Everyone’s talking about capping credit card interest rates. But it’s easy to swap high-interest debt for a lower-interest personal loan. SoFi credit card consolidation loans are so popular because they’re cheaper, safer, and more transparent.

9. Reward Yourself

Paying off debt can be a challenging process. That’s why it’s so important to treat yourself as you reach debt milestones.

Tethering productive behavior to rewards is a process that Wharton business school professor Katherine Milkman calls “temptation bundling.” This process can help you boost your willpower and stick to your goals.

So, choose a reward and tie it to a debt milestone like paying off a credit card, or paying off 10% of your debt. Each of these steps puts you closer to being debt-free, and that’s worth celebrating. When you reach a goal, indulge in a free or budget-friendly reward.

Recommended: Typical Personal Loan Requirements

Debt Payoff Tips

Paying off debt often requires patience and persistence. Here’s some smart advice to address common concerns and help keep you going as you whittle down that debt.

What Are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid When Paying off Debt?

Some common mistakes when paying off debt are hiding from the situation (that is, not looking at how much you owe and creating a plan), taking out high interest payday loans, and, in some cases, taking out a home equity loan. Here’s a closer look at each:

•  It can be a common mistake to not dig in, review the full picture, and make a plan. Some people would rather be in denial and just keep paying a little bit here and there. Knowing your debt and developing a way to pay it off can be the best move.

•  Taking out a payday loan or other high-interest option to make a payment. This can make a tough situation worse by adding more money owed to your situation. A personal loan might be a better option with lower rates.

•  Tapping your home equity. Credit card debt is unsecured; you don’t put up anything as collateral. A home equity loan, however, uses your home as collateral. Yes, a home equity loan can be a helpful option in some situations, but if you use that equity to continue spending at a level your income can’t support, that can mean bigger problems lie ahead. You could wind up losing your home.

How Can I Balance Paying off Debt with Saving for Other Financial Goals?

To manage both debt repayment and saving, it’s important to make sure you keep current on paying what you owe. Next, you might want to create a budget, cut your spending, and automate your finances (which will send some money to savings) to help maintain a good balance. Here’s guidance:

•  Create a budget, keep paying off your debt, and work to create an emergency fund (even saving $20 or $25 a month is a good start).

•  Commit to cutting your spending. Some people like gamifying this: Say, one month, you vow to not eat dinner out; another month, you decide to forgo buying any new clothes.

•  Automate your finances. This can be as simple as setting up a recurring transfer from your checking account to savings just after payday. That whisks some money into savings (a small amount is fine), and you won’t see it sitting in checking, tempting you to spend it.

What Are My Debt Relief Options if I’m Struggling to Make Payments?

Some ways to get help with debt relief can include a balance transfer credit card, a personal loan, a debt management plan, and (if no other options are possible) considering declaring bankruptcy. If you are having a hard time with debt payoff, there are several options:

•  As mentioned above, you might take advantage of zero-percent balance transfer credit card offers.

•  You can contact your creditors and see if they will lower your interest rate or otherwise reduce your burden.

•  You might consider a personal loan (mentioned above) to pay off high-interest debt with a lower-interest loan.

•  You could participate in a debt management plan that consolidates your debt into one payment monthly that is then divvied up among those to whom you owe money. Look for a plan that is backed by a reputable organization such as the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) or the Financial Counseling Association of America.

•  You might decide to declare bankruptcy; the most common form is known as Chapter 7 liquidation, and can get rid of credit card debt, medical debt, and unsecured personal loans. Educate yourself carefully to see if you qualify, and be sure you understand the long-term impact it may have on your personal finances.

The Takeaway

Digging yourself out of debt can be a challenging process, but with a well-crafted plan and discipline, it can be achieved. Evaluate your spending habits, determine how you are going to prioritize your debts, and stick to your plan by setting small, measurable goals. One option people consider is consolidating multiple high-interest debts into a one personal loan with one payment. However, note that extending the loan term could lead to lower monthly payments, but you may end up paying more interest in the long run.

Whether or not you agree that credit card interest rates should be capped, one thing is undeniable: Credit cards are keeping people in debt because the math is stacked against you. If you’re carrying a balance of $5,000 or more on a high-interest credit card, consider a SoFi Personal Loan instead. SoFi offers lower fixed rates and same-day funding for qualified applicants. See your rate in minutes.

SoFi’s Personal Loan was named a NerdWallet 2026 winner for Best Personal Loan for Large Loan Amounts.

FAQ

Why is it important to have a plan to pay off debt?

It’s important to have a plan to pay off debt so you can be organized and strategic in this effort. Only by knowing the full extent of your debt and your resources can you make a plan. Whether you choose to use a method like the snowball or avalanche technique, take out a personal loan, or try a debt management program, it’s vital to know just where you stand.

What are some strategies for dealing with multiple sources of debt?

If you have multiple sources of debt, you may want to research the snowball, avalanche, and fireball methods of paying down what you owe. These consider such factors as how much you owe and the interest rate you are being charged and can help you prioritize how you repay the debt. These strategies can help focus your efforts and contribute to your success.

How much credit card debt does the average American have?

As of early 2025, the average American is carrying about $6,500 in credit card debt.

---

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

*Awards or rankings from NerdWallet are not indicative of future success or results. This award and its ratings are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

SOPL-Q225-066

Read more

Nondischargeable debt are debts that cannot be eliminated by bankruptcy. Typically, this kind of debt includes child support, alimony, student loans, and some tax bills, among others.

Though on the surface bankruptcy may appear to produce an opportunity for a fresh start, nondischargeable debts prevent it from being a true end-all solution to funds owed. Learn the details here.

What Does Nondischargeable Debt Include?

Nondischargeable debts can include home mortgages, certain taxes, child support, and student loans, and can vary based on the chapter of bankruptcy filed.

A debt may also be considered nondischargeable if a creditor formally objects to a discharge in court and wins.

When a debt is discharged through bankruptcy, the debtor is relieved of any legal obligation to pay it back, and the creditor is prevented from taking any further action to collect that debt. This includes contacting the debtor or filing a lawsuit.

Personal loans, credit card debt, and medical bills are types of debt generally considered dischargeable.

Nondischargeable debt, on the other hand, does not dissolve in a bankruptcy filing. The debtor remains liable for payment even after the filing is complete. These are types of debt that Congress has deemed unforgivable due to public policy.

Recommended: What Is the 10 Percent Credit Card Interest Rate Cap Act?

Types of Nondischargeable Debt

Nineteen categories of nondischargeable debt apply for Chapters 7, 11, and 12 of the Bankruptcy Code. (A more limited list of exceptions applies to cases under Chapter 13.)

Except in unique circumstances, if a debt falls under one of these categories, it is not considered dischargeable.

1. Debt incurred from U.S. taxes or a customs duty.

2. Debt for money, property, or services obtained fraudulently or under false pretenses.

3. Any debt excluded from bankruptcy filing paperwork (unless the missing creditor received prior notice and had ample time to respond to the filing).

4. Debt acquired due to fraud, larceny, or embezzlement while working as a fiduciary.

5. Debt contracted for a domestic support obligation, including child support and alimony.

6. Debt from intentionally harming another person or their property.

7. Tax debt as a result of a fine, penalty or forfeiture that is, at minimum, 3 years old.

8. Student loan debt (unless not discharging the debt would impose an “undue hardship”).

9. Debt incurred due to the death or injury of someone caused by the debtor while operating a vehicle, vessel, or aircraft while intoxicated.

10. Any debts that were or could have been listed in a prior bankruptcy filing, and the debtor waived or was denied a discharge.

11. Debt obtained by committing fraud or misappropriating funds while acting as a fiduciary at a bank or credit union.

12. Debt incurred for the malicious or reckless failure of a debtor to fulfill any commitment to a federal depository.

13. Debts for any orders of restitution.

14. Debt incurred by penalty in relation to U.S. taxes.

15. Any debt to a spouse, former spouse, or child that is incurred through a separation or divorce.

16. Debts incurred due to condominium ownership or homeowners association fees.

17. Legal fees imposed on a prisoner by a court for costs and expenses related to a filing.

18. Debts owed to a pension, profit-sharing, stock bonus, or another retirement plan, as well as any loans taken from an individual retirement annuity.

19. Debt obtained for violating federal or state securities laws, common law, or deceit and manipulation in connection with the purchase or sale of any security.

Recommended: Paying Tax on Personal Loans

How Will Nondischargeable Debt Affect Me?

Nondischargeable debt is just like any other debt in the sense that it must be paid off on time to avoid negative consequences.

If a debt is left unpaid for too long, the creditor may sell the debt to a collection agency, which then may result in any number of the following repercussions:

•   Significantly lowering a credit score

•   Flagging a borrower as “high risk” to future lenders

•   Decreasing the odds of approval for future credit offerings

•   Increasing high-interest rate offers with less favorable terms

•   Adding negative remarks to your credit history

•   Activating a lien against a property or asset

•   Prompting creditors to pursue legal action

•   Enacting wage or asset garnishment

How Can I Resolve Nondischargeable Debts?

Making plans to resolve any outstanding debts as soon as possible is key to managing a credit history and salvaging future credit opportunities. Here are strategies for paying off debts to consider.

Stop Using Credit

The first step toward debt resolution is to stop accruing it. Many people rely on credit cards, with the average American having almost $6,500 in debt as of February 2025, according to TransUnion®, one of the major credit bureaus.

Making a point not to purchase anything that can’t be bought with cash outright can help curb unnecessary expenses. This includes larger purchases that may require financing. Leaving credit cards at home and removing their information from online payment systems can also help remove the temptation of using them.

Create a Budget

According to a 2024 Debt.com survey, 89% of Americans said making a budget helped them get out of or stay out of debt.

A monthly plan including income and expenses can help reveal where extra money might be coming in and where you can cut back on unnecessary spending. A plan will provide a holistic view of spending habits, allowing for larger decisions to be made about how to change habits in order to fit new, debt-focused priorities.

Cutting back on expenses and carefully tracking spending can help reveal extra dollars and cents needed to pay down debts.

Start a Part-Time Job

When paying down debt is a top priority, taking on another job or picking up additional hours at your current one can be extremely helpful.

An extra check here and there can provide funds to make additional payments on debts, helping to dissolve them more quickly. Consider options such as working weekends at a local coffee shop, picking up a temporary gig in food delivery, or freelancing for additional income.

Recommended: 19 Jobs That Pay Daily

Consolidate Debt

Applying for a personal loan is a strategy for managing several debts simultaneously. Though it may seem counterintuitive to take on another loan, a personal loan can be used to pay off multiple existing lines of credit, such as credit cards, and consolidate them into one loan with a single monthly payment and, possibly, a lower interest rate.

In addition to comparing rates, it’s important to make sure you understand how a new loan could benefit you in the long run. For instance, if your monthly payment is lower because the loan term is longer, it might not be a good strategy, because it means you may be making more interest payments and therefore paying more over the life of the loan.

However, a debt consolidation loan could help streamline payments and ease the anxiety that comes with being responsible for managing numerous lines of credit.

💡 Quick Tip: Credit card interest rates average 20%-25%, versus 12% for a personal loan. And with loan repayment terms of 2 to 7 years, you’ll pay down your debt faster. With a SoFi personal loan for credit card debt, who needs credit card rate caps?

The Takeaway

Nondischargeable debts cannot be eliminated by bankruptcy, and without proper management, they could worsen your current financial situation. Like any other debt, nondischargeable debt must be paid off on time in order to avoid negative repercussions. Creating a plan to handle outstanding debts as soon as possible is a smart choice. A personal loan is one option to consider in this situation.

Whether or not you agree that credit card interest rates should be capped, one thing is undeniable: Credit cards are keeping people in debt because the math is stacked against you. If you’re carrying a balance of $5,000 or more on a high-interest credit card, consider a SoFi Personal Loan instead. SoFi offers lower fixed rates and same-day funding for qualified applicants. See your rate in minutes.

SoFi’s Personal Loan was named a NerdWallet 2026 winner for Best Personal Loan for Large Loan Amounts.

FAQ

What does it mean if a debt is non-dischargeable?

Non-dischargeable debt is debt that cannot be eliminated by bankruptcy.

What type of debt cannot be discharged?

Debts that cannot be discharged in bankruptcy include alimony, child support, most types of taxes, most student loans, and debt resulting from fraud and other criminal activity.

How do I remove discharged debt from my credit report?

If discharged debt is still on your credit report, you will have to contact each of the big three credit reporting bureaus and file a dispute, giving information to verify that the item(s) should be removed.

---

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

*Awards or rankings from NerdWallet are not indicative of future success or results. This award and its ratings are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

This article is not intended to be legal advice. Please consult an attorney for advice.

Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

SOPL-Q225-050

Read more

If you’re repaying a variety of different debts to different lenders, keeping track of them and making payments on time each month can be time consuming. It isn’t just tough to keep track of these various debts, it’s also difficult to know which debts to prioritize in order to fast track your debt repayment. After all, each of your cards or loans likely have different interest rates, minimum payments, payment due dates, and loan terms.

Consolidating — or combining — your debts into a new, single loan may give your brain and your budget some breathing room. We’ll take a look at what it means to consolidate debt and how it works.

What Is Debt Consolidation?

Debt consolidation involves taking out one loan or line of credit (ideally with a lower interest rate) and using it to pay off other debts — whether that’s car loans, credit card debt, or another type of debt. After consolidating those existing loans into one loan, you have just one monthly payment and one interest rate.


💡 Quick Tip: Credit card interest rates average 20%-25%, versus 12% for a personal loan. And with loan repayment terms of 2 to 7 years, you’ll pay down your debt faster. With a SoFi personal loan for credit card debt, who needs credit card rate caps?

Common Ways to Consolidate Debt

Your options to consolidate debt depend on your overall financial situation and what type of debt you wish to consolidate. Here are some common approaches.

Balance Transfer

If you are able to qualify for a credit card that has a lower annual percentage rate (APR) than your current cards, a balance transfer credit card may be one option to consider and can be a smart financial strategy to consolidate debt if you use it responsibly.

Some credit cards have zero- or low-interest promotional rates specifically for balance transfers. Promotional rates are typically for a limited time, so if you pay the transferred balance in full before it ends, you’ll reap the benefit of paying less — or possibly zero — interest.

However, there are some caveats to keep in mind. Credit card issuers generally charge a balance transfer fee, sometimes 3% to 5% of the amount transferred. If you use the credit card for new purchases, the card’s purchase APR, not the promotional rate, will apply to those purchases.

At the end of the promotional period, the card’s APR will revert to its regular rate. If a balance remains at that time, it will be subject to the new, regular rate.

Making late payments or missing payments entirely will typically trigger a penalty rate, which will apply to both the balance transfer amount and regular purchases made with the credit card.

Home Equity Loan

If you own a home and have equity in it, you might consider a home equity loan for consolidating debt. Home equity is the home’s value minus the amount remaining on your mortgage. If your home is worth $300,000 and you owe $125,000 on the mortgage, you have $175,000 worth of equity in your home.

Another key term lenders use in home equity loan determinations is loan-to-value (LTV) ratio. Typically expressed as a percentage, the LTV is similar to equity, but on the other side of the scale: Instead of how much you own, it’s how much you owe. The percentage is calculated by dividing the home’s appraised value by the remaining mortgage balance.

Lenders typically like to see applicants whose LTV is no more than 80%. In the above example, the LTV would be 42%.

$125,000 / $300,000 = 0.42
(To express this as a percentage, multiply 0.42 x 100 to get 42%.)

If you qualify for a home equity loan, you’ll typically be able to tap into 75% to 80% of your equity.

After the home equity loan closes, you’ll receive the loan proceeds in one lump sum, which you can use to pay your other debts.

A home equity loan is essentially a second mortgage, a secured loan using your home as collateral. Since there is a risk of losing your home if you default on the loan, this option should be considered carefully.

Personal Loan

If you don’t have home equity to tap into or you prefer not to put your home up as collateral, a personal loan may be another option to consider.

There are many types of personal loans, but they are typically unsecured loans, which means no collateral is required to secure the loan. They can have fixed or variable interest rates, but it’s fairly easy to find a lender that offers fixed-rate personal loans.

Generally, personal loans offer lower interest rates than credit cards. So consolidating credit card debt with a fixed-rate personal loan may result in savings over the life of the loan. Also, since personal loans are installment loans, there is a payment end date, unlike the revolving nature of credit cards.

There are many online personal loan lenders and the application process tends to be fairly simple. You may be able to use a loan comparison site to see what types of interest rates and loan terms you may be able to qualify for.

When you apply for a personal loan, the lender will do a hard credit inquiry into your credit report, which may temporarily lower your credit score. The lower credit score may drop off your credit report in a few months.

If you’re approved, the lender will send you the loan proceeds in one lump sum, which you can use to pay off your other debts. You’ll then be responsible for paying the monthly personal loan payment.

A drawback to using a personal loan for debt consolidation is that some lenders may charge origination fees, which can add to the total balance you’ll have to repay. Other fees may also be charged, such as late fees or prepayment penalties. It’s important to make sure you’re aware of any fees or penalties before signing the loan agreement.


💡 Quick Tip: Swap high-interest debt for a lower-interest loan, and save money on your monthly payments. Find out why SoFi credit card consolidation loans are so popular.

Is Debt Consolidation Right For You?

Your financial situation is unique to you, but there are several things you’ll want to keep in mind when trying to decide if debt consolidation is right for you.

Debt Consolidation Might Be a Good Idea If …

•   You want to have only one monthly debt payment. It can be a challenge to manage multiple lenders, interest rates, and due dates.

•   You want to have a payment end date. Using a home equity loan or a personal loan for debt consolidation will be useful for this reason because they are forms of installment debt.

•   You can qualify for a zero interest or low-interest rate balance transfer credit card. This may allow you to consolidate multiple debts on one new credit card and save interest by paying off the balance before the promotional rate ends.

Debt Consolidation Might Not Be For You If …

•   You think you’ll be tempted to continue using the credit cards you paid off in the debt consolidation process. This can leave you further in debt.

•   You’ll incur fees (e.g., balance transfer fee or origination fee). If the fees are high, it might not make sense financially to consolidate the debts.

•   Consolidating your debts may actually cost you more in the long run. If your goal is to have smaller monthly payments, that generally means you’ll be making payments for a longer period of time and incurring more interest over the life of the loan.

Recommended: Getting Out of Debt with No Money Saved

Credit Card Debt Relief: How to Get It

Some people seek assistance with getting relief from debt burdens. Reputable credit counselors do exist, but there are also many programs that scam people who may already be overwhelmed and are vulnerable.

Disreputable debt settlement companies may charge fees before ever settling your debt and often make bogus claims, such as guaranteeing that they will be able to make your debt go away or that there is a government program to bail out those in credit card debt.

Even if a debt settlement company can eventually settle your debt, there may be negative consequences to your credit along the way. What’s more, a debt settlement program may require that you stop making payments to your creditors. But your debts may continue to accrue interest and fees, putting you further in debt. The lack of payments may also take a negative toll on your payment history, which is an important factor in the calculation of your credit score.

Recommended: Debt Settlement vs Credit Counseling: What’s the Difference?

Debt Relief: Is it a Good Idea?

What’s a good idea for some people may be a bad idea for others. Whether debt relief is a good idea for you and your financial situation will depend on factors that are unique to you. Working with a reputable credit counselor may be a good way to get some assistance that will help you get out of debt for good and create a solid financial plan for the future.

The Takeaway

Debt consolidation allows borrowers to combine a variety of debts, like credit cards, into a new loan. Ideally, this new loan has a lower interest rate or more favorable terms to help streamline the repayment process.

Whether or not you agree that credit card interest rates should be capped, one thing is undeniable: Credit cards are keeping people in debt because the math is stacked against you. If you’re carrying a balance of $5,000 or more on a high-interest credit card, consider a SoFi Personal Loan instead. SoFi offers lower fixed rates and same-day funding for qualified applicants. See your rate in minutes.

SoFi’s Personal Loan was named a NerdWallet 2026 winner for Best Personal Loan for Large Loan Amounts.

---

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Checking Your Rates: To check the rates and terms you may qualify for, SoFi conducts a soft credit pull that will not affect your credit score. However, if you choose a product and continue your application, we will request your full credit report from one or more consumer reporting agencies, which is considered a hard credit pull and may affect your credit.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

SOPL0324008

Read more