Kim Hernandez
Columbia,#2UPDATE Employee
Mon, September 27, 2004
Please understand that Debt Shield does not ordinarily respond to Internet message boards or complaint forums because of several reasons. First, Debt Shield provides services related to personal finances of its clients. By law, the company cannot violate the financial privacy of clients or former clients by discussing details found in their files. This makes it virtually impossible for Debt Shield to discuss the particular circumstances of any complaint. Second, such message boards are anonymous. Often, there is no way to know who is complaining and whether they have a hidden agenda. Unscrupulous sales people may use these boards to spread untrue gossip about their competition. Attorneys may use these forums to stir up litigation. Third, Debt Shield does its best to provide good service, and good service does not include arguing with clients, not even with disgruntled former clients. With that being said, however, we firmly believe in providing full support to all of our clients. This, of course, is not possible unless we fully inform all of our clients as to how the program works and reasonable expectations are set accordingly. Against this backdrop, we offer the following: Our contract is clear, concise and comprehensive. We state all the pertinent details up front, including but not limited to the length of program and the estimated time of first settlement. The fact of the matter is that debt is not incurred overnight, as such, it is unreasonable to expect it to go away overnight. In fact, our contract is arguably the most comprehensive in the entire industry. We provide each and every one of our clients, a Truth in Services form that, among other things, clearly spells out the adverse impact on one's credit report that could result from enrollment. Debt Settlement is not a magic wand that will instantly wipe out a debt crisis which (usually) was built up over many years. It can be an answer for people who have serious financial problems resulting from too much credit card debt. It requires that a person face this fact: I am seriously overextended and do not have the resources to repay my credit card debt. I could make payments on this debt for years and not make a dent in it. People in that situation usually face the stigma of bankruptcy. In regards to this particular matter, we will be reaching out to this person to ensure that the matter is fully resolved. Our ultimate goal is to provide outstanding service in order to develop strong positive relationships with each client. We will see what other things we can do in order to allow this client to more so understand and appreciate the services provided to date. Unfortunately, not all persons get the same degree of success with our program because they prematurely exit the program. However, given that this is the first complaint we have ever received in regards to our services, I can confidentially state that we offer and deliver a service that assists many consumers in their most daunting times. Hopefully, our discussion with this person will assist her in her endeavor to once again handle this matter on her own behalf. Debt Shield wishes the best for everyone that is going through a financial hardship and encourages them to investigate the alternatives, make a plan they think will suit their situation, and take action. If you hit some bumps in the road, take heart. Things have a way of working out if you keep your goal in sight: freedom from debt! Director of Client Services Debt Shield, Inc.
Stephanie
Sioux Falls,#3Author of original report
Mon, September 27, 2004
Today, M Hollis of Debt Shield, advised he had been speaking with his manager regarding my cancellation. Debt Shield has refunded the fees incurred. In accordance with the original contract signed they keep the first two months payments which were fully earned retainers.