Most debt relief plans with 13–16% interest and 3 year terms ask you to close your credit cards. Why? Because they're not really fixing your credit score they're just moving your debt to them.
Want to keep your accounts open and boost your score? Steer clear of anything that makes you close revolving credit. Closing cards hurts your credit utilization and shortens your history.
For better options, try:
• Credit unions. They often give lower rate personal loans without making you close accounts.
• Balance transfer cards. Some still offer 0% interest for 12–18 months (but only pick this if you can pay it off fast).
• Peer to peer lenders (like LendingClub or Prosper). Watch out for upfront fees, though.
Remember: Don't sign up for any program that forces account closures unless you just want debt relief, not a better score.
Always read the details. Some companies aren't lendes they might push you into debt settlement, which can wreck your score and lead to charge offs.
