<prompt> Human: Completely new to this subreddit and would really appreciate some advice. I am 24 yo living in NYC and have unfortunately gotten myself into credit card debt. I just received in the mail a letter from Credit Services located at One World Trade Center, NYC telling me that they are aware of my current financial situation. The letter proposes that they have authorization to facilitate a settlement on my behalf of 50 of all my debt 8,000. It also says that I can either pay a lump sum of 8K, or pay it incrementally over a 36 month program at no extra cost. Having zero experience w this and being 24 years old, I am seeking advice. Is this legitimate? Are there any cons to the 36 month program which would be easier or me to pay off? Any helpadvice would be GREATLY appreciated. I will be sure to learn from this mistake once I get this all settled.  <response>: These services are predatory. Anyone who comes to you unsolicited is just looking to make a buck off you. They cant do anything for you that you couldnt do yourself. Draft a budget and stick to it. Check out YNAB or similar budgeting apps. They help to organize your money and open your eyes as to where your money is going. 