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Debt Consolidation Resource Center

Debt Consolidation Options

Consolidation combines multiple debts into one payment, ideally at a lower rate, it doesn't reduce what you owe, but it can simplify repayment and lower interest costs.

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By ReliefGuardian Editorial TeamReviewed byJames Russell, Senior Debt Relief SpecialistJames RussellSenior Debt Relief Specialist

Overview

Debt consolidation replaces multiple debts with a single loan or credit line, ideally at a lower interest rate than what you're currently paying across several accounts. It doesn't reduce your principal balance, it restructures how you repay it.

This path generally works best for people with decent-to-good credit (620+) who can qualify for a rate meaningfully lower than their current average. Options include personal loans, balance transfer cards, and home equity products like a HELOC, each with different qualification requirements and risk levels.

This resource center compares every consolidation option, including a partner marketplace that lets you compare real loan offers without a hard credit check.

Start Here

New to this situation? These are the first things to read or do.

How This Usually Unfolds

1

Check your credit and qualification odds

2

Compare loan, HELOC & balance transfer offers

3

Pay off existing balances with the new loan

4

Repay the single consolidated balance

OUR TOP RECOMMENDATION

SuperMoney

Multi-Lender Loan Marketplace · ReliefGuardian Partner

SuperMoney is our top recommendation for navigating your debt consolidation loan options. Their free marketplace lets you compare real, personalized offers from multiple lenders in one place, without a hard inquiry on your credit report.

Compare multiple consolidation loan offers side by side in minutes

Check your rate with a soft credit check, no hard pull, no credit score impact

100% free to compare, with no obligation to accept any offer

See offers from a network of vetted, reputable lenders in one place

Compare My Loan Offers

Advertising disclosure: ReliefGuardian may earn a commission if you're matched with a lender through SuperMoney. This does not affect our recommendation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What credit score do I need for a consolidation loan?

Most lenders look for a score of 620 or higher, with the best rates reserved for scores of 700+. Below that range, options narrow and rates rise.

Does consolidation reduce what I owe?

No, it restructures the same debt, ideally at a lower interest rate. If you need to reduce the actual balance, debt settlement may be worth exploring instead.