How Debt Settlement Works
Debt settlement, also called debt negotiation, is an informal agreement between a business and its creditors to settle on a reduced balance. The goal is for the business to pay less than the full amount owed. Here’s a quick rundown of the debt settlement process:
- The business stops making payments to creditors and instead directs money into a dedicated account
- A debt settlement firm contacts creditors and negotiates to pay a percentage of the balance
- Creditors agree to accept the lower amount as payment in full
- The business uses the set-aside funds to pay the reduced settlement amounts
Debt settlement helps businesses avoid bankruptcy. It can eliminate debt while allowing the business to continue operating. However, there are risks to be aware of. Missed payments during settlement negotiations mean accounts fall further behind. This can hurt credit scores and lead creditors to take collection actions. Not all creditors will accept settlement offers, which reduces potential savings.
Key Aspects of Business Bankruptcy
Declaring bankruptcy is a legal process governed by federal law. The most common bankruptcy options for businesses are Chapter 7 liquidation and Chapter 11 reorganization. The key features of each include:Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
- Business ceases operations and assets are sold to pay creditors
- Owners are not personally responsible for business debts
- After liquidation, unpaid debt is discharged
- Company cannot continue doing business
Chapter 11 Bankruptcy
- Business continues operating under court supervision
- Owners create structured repayment plan to address debts over time
- Certain assets may still be sold to raise funds
- If plan fails or terms are not met, case could be converted to Chapter 7
The right bankruptcy chapter depends on the company’s situation and goals. The court reviews all cases to ensure legal requirements are met before granting bankruptcy protection.
Key Differences Between Settlement and Bankruptcy
Debt settlement and bankruptcy offer two very different solutions for struggling businesses. While both reduce or eliminate debt, the processes vary significantly.
Impact on Company Operations
A major difference is whether the business continues operating. Debt settlement allows the company to function normally while negotiating with creditors. Bankruptcy laws prohibit this – Chapter 7 requires liquidating, while Chapter 11 means operating under court oversight.
Structured Process
Bankruptcy follows established legal procedures with court supervision. This brings oversight but also more certainty. Debt settlement relies on informal negotiations without a defined structure. Outcomes depend on creditor willingness to settle.
Cost and Accessibility
Hiring legal counsel is necessary in bankruptcy cases to navigate complex laws. This makes the process expensive. Debt settlement has lower costs and is accessible to more small business owners. Simple agreements can sometimes be negotiated directly without requiring extensive legal help.
Credit Score Impacts
Missed payments hurt credit, but declaring bankruptcy devastates credit scores. Companies completing debt settlements often see scores rebound within a couple years. The public bankruptcy record makes rebuilding credit after bankruptcy much more difficult.
Personal Liability Protection
Both options shield owners from personal liability for business debts. However, bankruptcy offers full protection immediately after filing. Debt settlement provides no guarantees until new agreements releasing owners from debts are formally signed.
Debt Elimination
Bankruptcy legally discharges eligible debts upon case completion. While many creditors accept settlement offers, some will pursue full balances despite negotiations. Settlements also carry risk of reneging on new payment plans.
Is Settlement or Bankruptcy Right for Your Business?
With an overview of how settlement and bankruptcy work, struggling business owners can better weigh their options. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Consider factors like:
- Costs – Limited funds may rule out bankruptcy. Settlements are done at lower cost.
- Business goals – Those looking to eventually sell or pass down their business may wish to avoid long-term bankruptcy damage.
- Debt types – Not all debts can be discharged in bankruptcy. Settlement negotiations are more flexible.
- Credit needs – Bankruptcy wrecks credit making financing difficult to obtain. Settlements allow credit rebuilding.
Most business owners want to preserve their company’s operations if possible. Informal debt settlements allow this while providing financial relief. However, the legal structures of bankruptcy better suit some situations.
Over $10 Million in Business Debt Resolved
As a leading debt settlement provider, Delancey Street has negotiated over $10 billion in business debt relief without requiring costly bankruptcies. Our dedicated experts provide the following services:
- Free consultation and assessment of your business finances
- Customized debt relief strategy maximizing settlements
- Aggressive creditor negotiation to reduce balances
- Easy monthly payments at affordable amounts
- Ongoing support settling business debts
Contact Delancey Street or visit our website to schedule your free evaluation. Our team understands the challenges business owners face when debt becomes unmanageable. We’ve helped thousands of companies across industries negotiate settlements, avoid bankruptcy, and regain financial control. With personalized service and a commitment to your success, we can help you too.
