Finance Australia :: Articles

3 Simple, Effective Tips For DIY Debt Settlement

3 Simple, Effective Tips For DIY Debt Settlement

3 Simple, Effective Tips For DIY Debt Settlement
Here we share 3 simple tips to eliminate your debt problems... so you can move on with life without the constant financial stress of dealing with creditors and collection agencies. To get out of debt, though, you do need to put in a little effort, and that's where understanding the process comes in.
Debt can be a difficult and stressful situation for so many people, but you can get out of it, and it is possible to move on with life.

1. Keep every correspondence you have in writing.

Never correspond with a creditor if you haven't done so in writing, and if you haven't retained a copy of your correspondence for your own records.
Creditors want to talk to you on the phone and get you to agree to payment plans, but none of that is beneficial to you.
Always correspond slowly, correspond via letter, and keep records of what you - and they - have agreed to do.
Debt Stressed?
Image for Debt Stressed?If you're struggling to pay your debts and covering living expenses, we're here to help. Through our national panel of Debt Management specialists, we can help customers with $10k or more in debt by consolidating your existing loans, stopping Debt collectors from contacting you and re-negotiating repayments on your terms!

2. Understand that creditors are typically interested in settling first and foremost, meaning that they will take a lesser amount than what you owe.

Creditors buy your debts up from companies and organizations for a fraction of the original price, and in doing so, will take a very small amount of money to take a profit.
Because of that, negotiate confidently with the knowledge that even though you will have to repay your debt, doing so won't hit your pocketbook as hard as you may realize.

3. Be aware of how your debt settlement will reflect on your credit report, and understand that you must get your credit report edited after settling.

It's in the best interest of the creditor to make as much money as they can, without caring about what you may need out of your debt settlement.
Because of that, it is imperative that you are adamant that your debt is wiped off your credit report, and see to it that is written in the agreement, as the creditor will not do it on their own.
If you reach a debt settlement and don't see a change in your credit report, it can be as damaging as failure to reach a settlement.
It is your responsibility to look out for yourself and your best interests during debt settlement.
Creditors' goal is to make profits and make money off your debt; they have no interest in finding your best interest, and because of that, the responsibility is yours.
There are more nuances to debt settlement than these three tips, of course, but you can start here and work towards an amicable and worthwhile debt settlement with little stress and great results.

Published: Sunday, 1st Aug 2021
Author: Paige Estritori


Finance Articles

The Ultimate Car Loan Checklist for First-Time Borrowers in Australia The Ultimate Car Loan Checklist for First-Time Borrowers in Australia
Welcome to the world of car ownership! If you're a first-time borrower in Australia, you're likely to feel a mix of excitement and apprehension. Acquiring a car loan is a significant financial responsibility, and navigating through the options can be daunting. This introductory guide is designed to set you on the right path to making a well-informed decision. - read more
Debt Consolidation: How to Streamline Your Finances with a Personal Loan Debt Consolidation: How to Streamline Your Finances with a Personal Loan
Debt consolidation is a strategy often utilized by individuals seeking to take control of their financial health. At its core, debt consolidation involves combining multiple debts into a single, more manageable loan, typically with more favorable terms such as a lower interest rate or a longer repayment period. - read more
Understanding the Fine Print: Fees and Charges in Personal Loans Understanding the Fine Print: Fees and Charges in Personal Loans
Personal loans are a type of unsecured credit that allows individuals to borrow money for various personal expenses, including consolidating debt, making home improvements, or funding significant life events. Unlike secured loans that require collateral, personal loans rely on your creditworthiness, making them an accessible option for many Australians. - read more
Essential Tips for Choosing the Right Personal Loan in Australia Essential Tips for Choosing the Right Personal Loan in Australia
Personal loans are a type of financing option that individuals can use to fund various personal expenses. Unlike mortgages or car loans, they aren't earmarked for a specific purpose, giving borrowers more flexibility in how they use the funds. These loans are usually unsecured, which means you don’t have to provide collateral to borrow money. - read more
How to Improve Your Chances of Getting a Business Loan Approved How to Improve Your Chances of Getting a Business Loan Approved
Welcome, Australian entrepreneurs and business owners! Whether you're just setting down the foundation of a startup or steering a well-established enterprise, access to capital remains a critical ingredient for business growth and survival. In the bustling economy of Australia, a well-structured business loan can be the catalyst that propels your business forward, aiding in expansion, the acquisition of new equipment, or simply ensuring smooth operational cash flow during lean periods. - read more
The Ultimate Car Loan Checklist for First-Time Borrowers in Australia The Ultimate Car Loan Checklist for First-Time Borrowers in Australia
Welcome to the world of car ownership! If you're a first-time borrower in Australia, you're likely to feel a mix of excitement and apprehension. Acquiring a car loan is a significant financial responsibility, and navigating through the options can be daunting. This introductory guide is designed to set you on the right path to making a well-informed decision. - read more

Finance News

Increasing Number of Qualified Financial Advisers Opt Out of Practice Increasing Number of Qualified Financial Advisers Opt Out of Practice
11 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

Recent analysis from WealthData indicates a growing trend among financial advisers in Australia, where a significant portion of those who have successfully passed the financial adviser exam are opting not to practice. As of now, 5,096 individuals, representing 33.31% of active advisers, have chosen not to proceed into practice after passing the exam—up from 28.36% a year prior. - read more
Melbourne's Housing Market: A Prime Opportunity For Buyers Melbourne's Housing Market: A Prime Opportunity For Buyers
11 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) recently surprised many by maintaining the interest rate at 3.85%, against expectations of a cut. This decision is seen as a measure to continue moderating inflation, but it simultaneously delays potential spikes in the housing market, providing a favorable window for prospective homebuyers. In particular, Melbourne's current market presents significant value, offering a promising opportunity for those looking to enter the property market. - read more
Improving EOFY Planning: The Call for ATO Portal Access for Advisers Improving EOFY Planning: The Call for ATO Portal Access for Advisers
09 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

In a recent discussion, James O'Reilly, Director and Financial Planner at Northeast Wealth, underscored the benefits that could come from granting financial advisers access to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) portal. Speaking on The ifa Show, O'Reilly proposed that this access would significantly simplify the services financial advisers provide to clients, particularly at tax time and the end of the financial year (EOFY). - read more

Free Loan Eligibility Assessment

Loan Amount:
Postcode:
All quotes are provided free (via our secure server) and without obligation. We respect your privacy.

Knowledgebase
Tax Deferral:
A situation where a taxpayer is allowed to delay paying taxes on income until a future date, commonly seen in retirement accounts.