If you’re reading this, chances are you’re feeling overwhelmed. Maybe the credit card bills are piling up. Maybe you’ve fallen behind on loan payments. Maybe you’re just tired of juggling minimums and watching your balance barely budge.
You’re not alone, and you’re not out of options either.
Let’s walk through the debt relief programs available in Florida. We’ll break down what each one offers, what it doesn’t, and why some may not work for your situation. And yes, we’ll also explain how CuraDebt fits into all of this.
The Reality of Debt in Florida
Before we dive into solutions, let’s look at the landscape:
- The average Floridian carries over $5,600 in credit card debt
- The state ranks among the highest in the U.S. for bankruptcy filings and foreclosures
- Many households owe more than $49,000 in non-mortgage debt
If that sounds familiar, you’re not imagining things. Debt is a serious issue here in The Sunshine State. But relief is possible.
“Can I Just Manage This Myself?”
That’s often the first question. And it’s a fair one.
You might be thinking: “Maybe I just need to budget better. Maybe I can negotiate with my creditors myself.”
That’s a good instinct. But here’s the truth: if your debt has already become unmanageable, if you’re missing payments, getting collection calls, or using one card to pay off another — then DIY strategies may not be enough.
TV experts recommend starting with a budget and cutting expenses. But if you’ve already tried that and still can’t keep up, it’s time to look at other structured programs.
Option 1: Debt Management Plans (DMPs)
These are offered by nonprofit credit counseling agencies. You make one monthly payment to the agency, and they pay your creditors, often with reduced interest rates.
Pros:
- Lower interest rates (sometimes down to 8%)
- One monthly payment
- No credit score requirement
Cons:
- Only covers unsecured debt (like credit cards)
- You must stick to the plan for 3–5 years
- Miss a payment, and the deal could fall apart
Important:
If your debt includes medical bills, payday loans, or anything outside of credit cards, a DMP won’t help. And if your income is unstable, keeping up with fixed monthly payments could be risky.
Option 2: Debt Consolidation Loans
This involves taking out a new loan to pay off your existing debts ideally at a lower interest rate.
Pros:
- Simplifies payments
- May reduce interest
- Can improve credit if managed well
Cons:
- Requires good credit
- Doesn’t reduce the amount you owe
- Adds more debt if you keep using credit cards
Important:
If your credit score has already taken a hit, lenders may deny you or offer high interest rates — defeating the purpose. And if you’re already struggling to make payments, adding a new loan could make things worse.
Option 3: Debt Settlement
This is where CuraDebt comes in. Debt settlement means negotiating with creditors to pay less than what you owe and it’s usually a good chunk less.
Pros:
- Reduces total debt
- No need for a loan
- The goal is to eliminate debt
Cons:
- Credit score may drop temporarily
- Forgiven debt may be taxable
- Not all creditors will settle
Important:
If you’re already behind on payments or facing collections, your credit is likely already affected. Debt settlement gives you a path forward. CuraDebt can handle the negotiations, paperwork, and creditor calls for you.
We’ve helped thousands of Floridians reduce their debt without bankruptcy. And we’re upfront about the risks and rewards. See our debt settlement letters.
Option 4: Bankruptcy
Bankruptcy is a legal process that can wipe out most unsecured debts. Florida allows you to keep certain assets, like your home and car, depending on the chapter you file.
Pros:
- Can eliminate most debts
- Stops collections and lawsuits
- Offers a fresh start
Cons:
- Stays on your credit report for 7–10 years
- May require selling assets (Chapter 7)
- Requires court filings and legal fees
Important:
Bankruptcy is a last resort. It’s not something to fear but it’s also maybe not something to rush into either. If you can resolve your debt without court involvement, that’s usually the preferred path.
“So… What Should I Do?”
If you’ve read this far, you’re probably wondering: “Which of these actually fits my life?”
That’s where CuraDebt comes in. We don’t push one-size-fits-all solutions. We look at your full financial picture income, expenses, debt types, credit score and help you choose the best path forward.
Sometimes that’s debt settlement. Sometimes it’s making a case for tax deductions you might be eligible for. Sometimes it’s debt restructuring.
And we do it with full disclosure at every stage and with great professionalism.
A Snapshot of Florida Debt Relief Programs
Residents across Orlando, Miami, and Tampa carry an average of over $6,000 in credit card debt. Here’s how local options compare:
| Program | Key Benefit | Main Drawback |
| Debt Management | Lowered interest rate | Strict payment rules; fees accrue |
| Consolidation Loan | One fixed-rate loan | Requires good credit; origination fees |
| Chapter 7 Bankruptcy | Quick discharge of unsecured debt | Long-term credit damage; legal costs |
| Debt Settlement | Cuts principal balances significantly | Plan fees before starting the process |
Final Thought
You didn’t get into debt overnight, and you won’t get out overnight either. But you can get out, with the right plan and the right partner.
CuraDebt has helped thousands of Floridians find relief. If you’re ready to take the next step, we’re ready to help.
