Incorporated in 2003 Debt Settlement USA, Inc. is a debt settlement company based in Scottsdale Arizona. This company offers debt settlement services to clients who are struggling with large amounts of debt and looking for an alternative to bankruptcy. Their website claims they are “arguably the most effective consumer debt reduction program in the nation”.
Here are some quick facts about Debt Settlement USA:
Company Founded:- Original start date 9/1/2001; incorporated in 2003
Years In Business:- 7
Number of Employees:- unknown
BBB Rating:- F
BBB Complaints:- 135 complaints in last 36 months
Fee Information:- unknown
Escrow Available?:- yes
Source of Funds:- client payments
Fee Structure:- unknown
Avg. % Settled:- 40%-60%
Refund Policy:- unknown
Minimum Debt Required:- $12,000 total unsecured debt/$1,000 per creditor
About the Company:
Debt Settlement USA has a current rating of F with the Better Business Bureau. The reason for this rating is due to the number of complaints and concerns about the industry which they operate. The areas that received the most complaints were customer service issues, service issues and contract disputes. For more detailed information you can view the BBB report here. This company is a member of the International Association of Professional Debt Arbitrators. They are a 2009 member of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, a business federation representing businesses, chambers and industry associates.
The Program:
Debt Settlement USA offers clients the standard debt settlement program. When you enroll in their program they will negotiate with your creditors in an attempt to secure a settlement offer less than the balance you currently owe. After reviewing your financial situation, Debt Settlement USA will set up an affordable monthly payment which you place in a settlement account. These funds will be used to pay creditors when settlements have been negotiated.
Website Experience:
Debt Settlement USA offers visitors or customers a website that is fairly standard in the industry. They cover most of the necessary information relating to debt settlement. When compared to other websites I would say the experience is average. From a strictly visual perspective, the site lacks some of the bells and whistles of other companies I have reviewed, however the information they do provide is easy to understand if not completely forthcoming.
Consumers unfamiliar with debt settlement are encouraged to do their homework before enrolling in any program. I was unable to find any fee information on the website which is disappointed as the language implies the “cost” of the program is based entirely on the clients debt, ability to pay and so on. Obviously they are not going to work for their customers free of charge so it would be nice to see some information on how they collect their fees.
In my opinion the information is slanted to “sugar coat” the possible negative effects this process can have for consumers. In addition to information about the company and process, the website offers customer access for clients as well as articles and a blog for further information.
Conclusion
Our goal is to help consumers get their financial lives in order. No matter what the circumstances you find yourself in, there are simple things you can do TODAY to help you Erase Debt, Spend Less, and Earn More 
DS Usa has settled one debt for me so far they have been good at keeping me up to date as things move along. So far so good.
They recently shut their doors as of two weeks ago. Too many lawsuits from clients and employees. Their sister company Brauer Law Firm followed suit a week later.
I can’t find any information on DSUSA going out of business. Please post information if you have it.
they tried to reopen using green debt relief but that seemed to have flopped as well. i can’t seem to find any information online, best bet is to call.