What is a Debt Management Plan?
A debt management plan (or DMP) is a way to get yourself out of debt and rebuild your credit, all while making monthly payments that fit your budget. They can be extremely beneficial for someone who is in over their head with debt and needs help getting a handle on it.
While participating in a debt management plan, you’ll also learn how to manage your money better so that you can avoid falling into debt again in the future.
But how does it work? Is there a cost? And how do you sign up for one? Here’s what you need to know.
Benefits of a Debt Management Plan
A debt management plan is a system that allows you to pay one monthly payment that covers all of your included debt. Essentially, once your creditors agree to the plan, you make a single payment each month to the facilitator of your debt management plan. It’s not a loan, however, and your monthly payment is divided and dispersed to your creditors every month.
When you request a debt management plan and your creditors agree to it, they will often lower your interest rate and waive any late fees that you currently have. They will also agree to a set monthly payment that has your account paid in full in no more than five years. For most clients, these benefits lead to massive savings over the course of the repayment plan.
While you’re in a debt management plan, your credit accounts will be closed and you will not be able to use those accounts for any new charges. You will also not be strongly discouraged from opening any new lines of credit, as creditors offer you perks (reduced interest, waived fees) with the idea that you’ll focus on paying off your debt and not creating new debts.
Is There A Cost for a Debt Management Plan?
Yes, but it’s not much and it will vary depending on the amount of debt you’re repaying and the state where you live. If you work with a nonprofit credit counseling agency, there will likely be two fees: an ongoing monthly fee and a one-time set-up fee. Monthly fees may be a percentage of your monthly DMP payment, or a flat fee (again depending on your state of residence).
At MMI, the average monthly fee is $24, while the average set-up fee is $33. Fees are capped at a maximum of $59 (monthly) and $75 (set-up).
How Do You Sign Up for a Debt Management Plan?
In order to start a debt management plan, you'll need to complete a free financial review. At MMI, this process is completely confidential and most of it can be completed online for your convenience. Once a counselor has reviewed your debts, expenses, and income, they'll discuss your best options and provide payment and savings information for your estimated debt management plan.
If you like what you hear, you'll need to sign an agreement and provide your first deposit. Your plan provider will begin communicating with your creditors and sending them monthly payments on your behalf.
Read more: Is a Debt Management Plan a Good Idea for Me?
If you’re not opposed to putting in some long hours on the phone, you can set up your own debt management plan. If you’re having trouble keeping up with your payments, creditors may be willing to work with you. But there’s no guarantee that you’ll receive the same interest rate reductions and other benefits if you go it alone.
Making the decision to create a debt management plan can be a responsible way out of debt, but it’s not right for everyone. If you’re considering one, talk to a credit counselor about your options.
