The Dispatch Briefing
The CFPB is implementing changes to its consumer complaint system, discontinuing the discretionary publication of complaint narratives and visualizations. Meanwhile, the FTC advises consumers on new scam tactics, including fraudulent QR codes and impersonations.
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Negotiated payoff for less than owed. Best for delinquent, unsecured debt. Tax and credit consequences apply.
Avg. resolved at 48–60¢
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One loan or balance-transfer card replaces many. Reduces APR for borrowers with fair-to-good credit.
0% intro APR · up to 21 months
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Fixed-rate, fixed-term installment loans from banks, credit unions and online lenders. Rates 7% to 36%.
Median APR: 12.4%
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Federal legal process. Chapter 7 discharges unsecured debt; Chapter 13 restructures over 3–5 years.
Stays on report 7–10 yrs
Federal agencies are refining their approaches to consumer protection, with the CFPB overhauling its complaint system for improved internal integrity, while the FTC battles an onslaught of increasingly sophisticated scams. Meanwhile, for individuals navigating financial distress, essential tools for debt management and relief remain crucial.
The CFPB is modifying its consumer complaint database by ceasing discretionary publication of complaint narratives, while the FTC issues new alerts on a range of scams, from online intimate image sharing to farm equipment and QR code frauds. The Federal Reserve has also released its latest economic projections.
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau announced changes to its consumer complaint system, including ceasing the discretionary publication of complaint narratives. Meanwhile, the Federal Trade Commission issued multiple alerts regarding various scams, from intimate image misuse to fraudulent online sales and charity appeals.
In Depth · Reviews
Scored on transparency of fees, accreditation, average settlement percentage, complaint rate per 1,000 enrolled clients, and quality of dedicated account structure.
| Rank | Firm | Avg. Settled At | Fee | Complaints / 1k | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Accredited Debt Relief | 51% | 18% | 2.1 | A− |
| 2 | National Debt Relief | 54% | 20% | 2.6 | B+ |
| 3 | Freedom Debt Relief | 55% | 22% | 3.4 | B |
| 4 | Pacific Debt Relief | 50% | 22% | 1.8 | B+ |
| 5 | New Era Debt Solutions | 48% | 20% | 1.4 | A− |
| 6 | CuraDebt | 53% | 22% | 2.9 | B |
| 7 | ClearOne Advantage | 55% | 25% | 4.1 | C+ |
| 8 | Beyond Finance | 57% | 25% | 5.2 | C |