Clark Howard says debt-settlement firms promise to help consumers lower their debts . Most debt - settlement companies require you to pay an upfront fee , plus a monthly retainer . Complaints about these companies have increased in many states . ` ` Call to Action '' aims to help consumers with credit card debt and bankruptcy .
Most debt - settlement companies require you to pay an upfront fee , plus a monthly retainer . Complaints about these companies have increased in many states . ` ` Call to Action '' aims to help consumers with credit card debt and bankruptcy .