Utah Debt Relief Programs: An Authoritative Review of Your Options

For many residents of the Beehive State, the pressure of managing household debt has become a significant source of financial and emotional stress. When rising living costs outpace income, families often turn to credit to bridge the gap, leading to a cycle of debt that can feel inescapable. Navigating the available Utah debt relief programs is the first step toward regaining financial control.

Utah's Debt Burden by the Numbers

The financial reality for many Utahns is challenging, with data indicating that the state's residents carry a heavier debt burden than the average American. The average adult in Utah with a credit history owes approximately $80,800 in total household debt. This figure is notably higher than the national average, with Utahns owing around $19,200 more than their counterparts across the country.

This disparity is also reflected in monthly obligations. A study found that Utah residents pay an average of $1,721 each month toward their debts, exceeding the national average of $1,597.

The Impact of High Housing Costs

A critical factor driving this trend is the high cost of housing. Mortgage debt constitutes the overwhelming majority of household debt in Utah, accounting for 76.1% of the total amount owed by residents. This substantial, long-term financial commitment for housing often leaves little room in the monthly budget for other necessities.

When unexpected expenses arise, such as medical bills or car repairs, or when income is disrupted, households may have no choice but to rely on high-interest credit cards and personal loans to cover daily expenses. This dynamic explains why a significant financial pressure point for many Utah families is not the mortgage itself, but the accumulation of unsecured debt used to supplement income stretched thin by housing costs. Consequently, the most effective debt relief strategies for this population are often those that systematically address these unsecured balances without placing the primary family asset—the home—at further risk.

A Comprehensive Comparison of Utah Debt Relief Pathways

When facing overwhelming debt, Utah residents have several distinct pathways to consider. Each option operates differently, is suited for a specific financial situation, and carries its own set of costs, benefits, and consequences, particularly concerning credit health. The choice is not about finding a single "best" solution, but about identifying the strategy that aligns with an individual's financial priorities, income stability, and tolerance for risk. The primary options include non-profit credit counseling, for-profit debt settlement, debt consolidation loans, and the legal process of bankruptcy.

Non-Profit Credit Counseling & Debt Management Plans (DMPs)

A Debt Management Plan (DMP) is a structured repayment program administered by a non-profit credit counseling agency. It is designed to help individuals repay their unsecured debts in full, but under more manageable terms.

How It Works

After a confidential financial review with a certified credit counselor, the agency works on the consumer's behalf to negotiate with their creditors. The goal is to secure concessions such as lower interest rates and the waiver of late or over-limit fees.

If successful, the consumer's multiple unsecured debt payments (e.g., credit cards, medical bills, personal loans) are consolidated into a single, structured monthly payment made directly to the credit counseling agency. The agency then disburses these funds to the individual creditors according to the agreed-upon schedule.

It is important to note that a DMP is not a new loan; it is a method of reorganizing existing debt to make repayment more affordable and efficient. These plans are typically structured to have the consumer become debt-free within a three to five-year timeframe.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate for a DMP is someone who has a stable source of income and can afford their monthly debt payments but is struggling to make progress due to high interest rates. They are committed to repaying 100% of what they owe and are looking for a disciplined, structured path to do so. This option is particularly well-suited for individuals who want to avoid the severe credit damage associated with settlement or bankruptcy.

Costs & Fees

Non-profit credit counseling agencies typically charge modest fees for administering a DMP, which are regulated by state law. The fee structure generally includes:

• A one-time setup fee: This fee averages between $30 and $50 nationally.
• A monthly administrative fee: This fee typically ranges from $25 to $50 per month. For example, the Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Utah charges a maximum monthly fee of $10.

Reputable non-profit agencies will often reduce or waive these fees for consumers who can demonstrate financial hardship.

Credit Impact

Enrolling in a DMP does not directly harm a person's credit score. However, there are indirect effects to consider. Creditors may place a notation on the consumer's credit report indicating they are participating in a repayment plan.

Furthermore, a common requirement of DMPs is that all enrolled credit card accounts be closed. Closing accounts can reduce the amount of available credit and shorten the average age of accounts, which may cause a temporary decrease in credit scores.

Despite this initial dip, the long-term impact is generally positive. As the consumer makes consistent, on-time payments through the plan and reduces their overall debt-to-income ratio, their credit health will steadily improve.

Pros & Cons

• Pros:
• Provides a structured, predictable path to becoming debt-free.
• Significantly reduces interest rates, saving thousands of dollars and accelerating debt payoff.
• Consolidates multiple payments into one, simplifying monthly finances.
• Stops collection calls and the accumulation of late fees.
• Offers valuable financial education and budgeting support from certified counselors.
• Avoids taking on new debt or loans.
• Cons:
• Requires a disciplined commitment for three to five years.
• Only applicable to unsecured debts; it cannot be used for mortgages or auto loans.
• Requires the closure of enrolled credit card accounts, limiting access to credit during the plan.

For-Profit Debt Settlement & Negotiation

Debt settlement, also known as debt negotiation or debt arbitration, is a more aggressive strategy offered primarily by for-profit companies. It aims to resolve debts by paying creditors a lump sum that is less than the full amount owed.

How It Works

Upon enrolling in a debt settlement program, the consumer is typically instructed to stop making payments to their creditors. Instead, they begin making monthly payments into a dedicated savings account, often managed by a third party. As the funds in this account accumulate over a period of many months or even years, the settlement company attempts to negotiate with each creditor. The goal is to reach an agreement where the creditor accepts a one-time, lump-sum payment from the savings account as full satisfaction of the debt, even though it is only a fraction of the original balance.

Ideal Candidate

Debt settlement is generally suited for individuals with a substantial amount of unsecured debt (typically $10,000 or more) who are already significantly behind on their payments or facing imminent default. This person must be willing to accept severe, long-lasting damage to their credit profile in exchange for the possibility of reducing their total principal debt burden.

Costs & Fees

Debt settlement companies charge a fee for their services, which is typically calculated as a percentage of either the total debt enrolled in the program or the amount of debt that is forgiven in a successful settlement. This fee generally ranges from 15% to 25%. For example, on a $20,000 debt, the fee could be as high as $5,000. Under the Federal Trade Commission's Telemarketing Sales Rule, these companies are prohibited from charging any fees until they have successfully negotiated a settlement, the consumer has agreed to it, and at least one payment has been made to the creditor.

Credit Impact

The impact of debt settlement on a person's credit is severe and overwhelmingly negative. The process requires the consumer to become delinquent on their accounts, and these missed payments are reported to the credit bureaus each month. These delinquencies, along with the eventual "settled for less than full amount" notation, will remain on a credit report for seven years. This can cause credit scores to plummet by 100 points or more, making it extremely difficult to obtain new credit, loans, or even some types of insurance or housing in the future.

Pros & Cons

• Pros:
• The primary potential benefit is reducing the total principal amount of debt that must be repaid.  
• Cons:
• Extreme Risk: There is no guarantee that creditors will agree to negotiate or settle. They are legally entitled to the full amount owed and can refuse to work with the settlement company.
• Risk of Lawsuits: While the consumer is saving money and not paying their bills, creditors can and often do initiate legal action, which can result in a judgment and wage garnishment.
• Increased Debt: During the negotiation period, interest and late fees continue to accrue on the original debts, which can cause the total balance to grow significantly.
• Tax Consequences: The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) may consider the amount of forgiven debt as taxable income. The consumer may receive a 1099-C form and be required to pay taxes on the amount that was "cancelled".
• Severe Credit Damage: As detailed above, the process is devastating to a person's credit history and score.

Debt Consolidation Loans

Debt consolidation is a financial strategy that involves taking out a single new loan to pay off multiple other debts. The goal is to simplify payments and, ideally, secure a lower overall interest rate.

How It Works

A consumer with multiple high-interest debts, such as credit card balances, applies for a new loan large enough to cover the total amount of those debts. Common types of consolidation loans include unsecured personal loans from banks, credit unions, or online lenders, as well as secured loans like a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) or a home equity loan. Once the new loan is approved and funded, the consumer uses the proceeds to pay off all the targeted debts in full. They are then left with only one loan to manage, with a single monthly payment and a fixed repayment term.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate for a debt consolidation loan has a good to excellent credit score and a stable income, which are necessary to qualify for a new loan with favorable terms. Their primary challenge is juggling multiple payments or paying high interest rates, not an inability to afford the principal debt. This strategy is for individuals who are disciplined enough to avoid accumulating new debt on the credit cards they have just paid off.

Costs & Fees

The primary cost of a debt consolidation loan is the interest paid over the life of the loan. Annual Percentage Rates (APRs) can vary widely, from as low as 7.99% for highly qualified borrowers to 24.99% or higher for those with less-than-perfect credit. Some personal loans may also carry an origination fee, which is a percentage of the loan amount deducted from the proceeds. For HELOCs or home equity loans, there may be closing costs similar to a mortgage.

Credit Impact

The impact on credit is mixed. Applying for a new loan will result in a hard inquiry on the credit report, which can cause a small, temporary dip in the score. Paying off multiple credit cards can positively impact the credit utilization ratio, which is a major factor in credit scoring.

However, the most significant credit-related consideration is the type of loan used. An unsecured personal loan carries less risk. In contrast, using a HELOC is an extremely dangerous strategy. It converts unsecured debt (like credit cards, which have limited recourse for creditors) into secured debt backed by the consumer's home. If the consumer defaults on the HELOC, they can face foreclosure and lose their home.

Pros & Cons

• Pros:
• Simplifies finances by combining multiple bills into a single monthly payment.
• Can significantly lower the overall interest rate, saving money and allowing for faster debt repayment.
• Provides a clear end date for the debt with a fixed repayment schedule.
• Cons:
• Requires a good credit score and sufficient income to qualify for a loan with a beneficial interest rate.  
• Does not address the underlying spending habits that led to the debt in the first place.
• There is a risk of accumulating new debt on the now-cleared credit cards.
• Using home equity to consolidate unsecured debt is exceptionally risky and puts the home in jeopardy of foreclosure.

Bankruptcy: A Legal Framework for Debt Relief

Bankruptcy is a formal legal process, overseen by federal courts, that provides relief for individuals and businesses who cannot repay their debts. It should be considered a last resort after all other options have been exhausted. In Utah, the two most common types of personal bankruptcy are Chapter 7 and Chapter 13.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy (Liquidation)

• How it Works: Often called "liquidation" or "straight" bankruptcy, Chapter 7 is designed to wipe out most types of unsecured debt. A court-appointed trustee is assigned to the case to gather and sell the debtor's non-exempt assets. The proceeds from this sale are then used to pay creditors. Any remaining eligible debts, such as credit card balances, medical bills, and personal loans, are then legally discharged, meaning the debtor is no longer obligated to pay them.
• Eligibility in Utah: Filing for Chapter 7 is subject to a "means test". This test compares the debtor's average household income over the previous six months to the median income for a household of the same size in Utah. If the income is below the median, they generally qualify. If it is above the median, a more detailed calculation of income and expenses is required to determine eligibility. Additionally, filers must complete a credit counseling course from an approved agency within 180 days before filing. A person cannot receive a Chapter 7 discharge if they have received one in the previous eight years.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy (Reorganization)

• How it Works: Chapter 13 is a reorganization bankruptcy, often called a "wage earner's plan". Instead of liquidating assets, the debtor proposes a court-approved repayment plan that lasts for three to five years. Under this plan, the debtor makes regular payments to a trustee, who then distributes the money to creditors. This option is often used by individuals who have a regular income but need to catch up on missed mortgage or car payments to prevent foreclosure or repossession. At the successful completion of the plan, any remaining eligible unsecured debt is discharged.
• Eligibility in Utah: To be eligible for Chapter 13, an individual must have a regular source of income and enough disposable income after essential living expenses to make the plan payments. The process involves filing a detailed petition, schedules of assets and liabilities, and the proposed repayment plan with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Utah.

Credit Impact

Bankruptcy has the most severe and lasting negative impact on a person's credit. A Chapter 7 bankruptcy remains on a credit report for ten years from the filing date, while a Chapter 13 remains for seven years. During this time, it can be very difficult to obtain new credit, a mortgage, or even some types of employment. However, for someone whose credit is already severely damaged by delinquencies and collections, bankruptcy can provide a definitive end to the negative reporting and a starting point for rebuilding.

Pros & Cons

• Pros:
• Provides immediate and powerful legal protection from creditors through the "automatic stay," which halts all collection activities, including lawsuits, wage garnishments, and foreclosure proceedings.
• Chapter 7 can eliminate most unsecured debts quickly, providing a true financial fresh start.
• Chapter 13 can save a home from foreclosure or a car from repossession by allowing the debtor to catch up on missed payments over time.
• It is a legally binding process that definitively resolves debts.
• Cons:
• Causes severe and long-lasting damage to credit scores.
• The process is a public record.
• Not all debts can be discharged. Common non-dischargeable debts include most student loans, recent tax debts, child support, and alimony.
• It is a complex legal process that almost always requires the assistance of a qualified bankruptcy attorney.
• In Chapter 7, the debtor may be forced to give up non-exempt property.

The fundamental choice between these relief options often comes down to a trade-off. Strategies like DMPs and consolidation loans are designed to preserve credit health by ensuring full repayment of the principal debt, focusing instead on reducing the cost of that debt through lower interest rates. On the other end of the spectrum, debt settlement and bankruptcy prioritize reducing the principal debt burden—either through negotiation or legal discharge—but do so at the cost of guaranteed, severe damage to the consumer's credit score. This understanding allows an individual to move beyond the question of "Which option is best?" and instead ask, "Which option best aligns with my personal financial goals and my ability to tolerate risk?" Answering this question is the key to making an empowered and strategic decision.

At-a-Glance Comparison of Utah Debt Relief Options

Your Legal Rights as a Consumer in Utah

When dealing with debt collectors, it is crucial for Utah residents to understand that they are protected by a robust set of federal and state laws. This knowledge can fundamentally change the dynamic of interactions with collectors, transforming a situation of perceived powerlessness into one of empowerment. An informed consumer is equipped to identify and stop illegal practices, defend against invalid claims, and protect their assets from unlawful seizure.

Debt Collection Practices and Protections

The primary federal law governing the conduct of third-party debt collectors is the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). This law makes it illegal for collectors to engage in abusive, deceptive, or unfair practices. Prohibited actions include:

• Using threats of violence or harm.
• Using obscene or profane language.
• Calling repeatedly with the intent to annoy or harass.
• Calling before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m. without permission.
• Misrepresenting the amount of the debt or its legal status.
• Threatening arrest or legal action that they do not intend to take or cannot legally take.

A key provision of the FDCPA is the right to debt validation. Within five days of their first contact with a consumer, a debt collector must send a written "validation notice". This notice must state the amount of the debt, the name of the creditor to whom the debt is owed, and a statement informing the consumer of their right to dispute the debt within 30 days. Failure to provide this notice is a violation of the FDCPA.

Utah's Statute of Limitations on Debt

One of the most powerful protections for consumers is the statute of limitations, which is the time limit a creditor has to file a lawsuit to collect a debt. Once this period expires, the debt is considered "time-barred," and while the collector can still ask for payment, they can no longer use the courts to force collection. In Utah, the statute of limitations varies depending on the type of debt agreement:

• Written Contracts: For debts based on a signed written agreement, such as most credit card agreements, personal loans, and medical service contracts, the statute of limitations is six years.
• Oral (Unwritten) Contracts: For debts based on a verbal agreement, the statute of limitations is four years.
• Open Accounts: For open-ended accounts for goods and services, such as some retail store charge accounts, the statute of limitations is four years.
• Judgments: If a creditor has already sued and won a judgment, they have eight years to enforce that judgment, and it can be renewed for an additional eight years.

The clock for the statute of limitations typically starts on the date of the last payment or the last activity on the account. It is critically important for consumers to understand that making a payment—even a small one—or acknowledging the debt in writing can reset the statute of limitations, giving the collector a new six- or four-year window to sue. Filing a lawsuit on a time-barred debt is a violation of the FDCPA, and a consumer who is sued for such a debt can use the expired statute of limitations as an absolute defense in court.

Utah Statute of Limitations on Consumer Debt

Wage Garnishment Protections in Utah

If a creditor successfully sues a consumer and obtains a court judgment, they can seek a writ of garnishment to seize money from the consumer's wages or bank account. However, Utah law places strict limits on how much can be taken. A creditor can typically garnish no more than 25% of a person's disposable earnings (the amount left after legally required deductions like taxes). This limit can be increased to 50% for the collection of child support or alimony.

Furthermore, certain types of income and property are legally exempt from garnishment. These exemptions are outlined in the Utah Exemptions Act and include benefits like Social Security, disability, and workers' compensation, as well as a certain amount of equity in a home (homestead exemption) and a vehicle. A debtor whose exempt funds are being garnished must file a "Reply and Request for Hearing" with the court within 14 days to protect their rights.

State Regulatory Oversight

In Utah, companies providing debt-management services are regulated by the Utah Division of Consumer Protection (DCP). Under the Uniform Debt-Management Services Act, any provider offering services to a Utah resident must be officially registered with the DCP. This registration requirement provides a crucial layer of oversight and ensures that these companies meet specific standards of operation, including being properly bonded. Consumers can and should verify a company's registration status with the DCP before entering into any agreement.

How to Choose a Reputable Debt Relief Provider in Utah

The debt relief industry includes a wide range of providers, from ethical non-profit organizations to predatory for-profit companies. For a Utah resident under financial duress, distinguishing between a legitimate partner and a potential scam is paramount. A systematic, verifiable approach to vetting any potential provider can protect consumers from financial harm and ensure they partner with a trustworthy organization.

The Critical Distinction: Non-Profit vs. For-Profit

The first step in evaluating a provider is understanding its business model.

• Non-Profit Credit Counseling Agencies: These organizations, such as those that offer Debt Management Plans, are typically 501(c)(3) charities. Their primary mission is education and consumer assistance. While they charge modest fees to cover administrative costs, their focus is on helping consumers repay their debt in full under better terms. They are often accredited by national bodies like the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) or the Financial Counseling Association of America (FCAA).
• For-Profit Debt Settlement Companies: These are businesses whose goal is to generate revenue by charging significant fees for negotiating debt reductions. Their model is contingent on the consumer defaulting on their debts, which carries substantial risk. While legitimate settlement companies exist, this sector is also prone to deceptive practices.

A 3-Step Verification Process for Utah

Generic advice to "do your research" is insufficient. Utah residents can follow a specific, three-step process using official state resources to verify the legitimacy of any debt relief provider operating in the state.

Step 1: Verify State Registration with the Division of Consumer Protection (DCP)

As mandated by the Uniform Debt-Management Services Act, any company providing debt management services in Utah must be registered with the state. This is the most critical verification step. Consumers should contact the Utah Division of Consumer Protection directly or check its online resources to confirm that a provider is registered and in good standing. A company that is not registered with the DCP is operating illegally in Utah.

Step 2: Verify Business Entity Status with the Division of Corporations

A legitimate company will be registered as a business entity with the state. The Utah Division of Corporations & Commercial Code maintains a free, public Business Entity Search tool on its website. By entering the company's name, a consumer can instantly verify:

• That the company legally exists.
• Its official status (e.g., "Active," "Expired," "Delinquent").
• Its entity type (e.g., LLC, Corporation).
• Its registered agent and principal address in Utah.

This search provides transparency and confirms that the company is a real, accountable business entity, not a transient operation.

Step 3: Check for Accreditation and Third-Party Reviews

Beyond state registration, reputable providers often seek accreditation from independent, national organizations that enforce high standards of practice.

• Accreditation: For non-profit agencies, look for accreditation from the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) or the Council on Accreditation (COA). For-profit settlement companies may be members of the   American Association for Debt Resolution (AADR). These affiliations indicate a commitment to ethical conduct.
• Reviews: Check the company's profile with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to review its rating, complaint history, and customer reviews. While online reviews can be manipulated, patterns of complaints filed with the BBB, the CFPB, or the state Attorney General's office are strong indicators of a company's performance and business practices.

Red Flags and Predatory Practices to Avoid

Consumers should immediately disengage with any company that exhibits the following warning signs:

• Charges Upfront Fees: It is illegal for a debt settlement company to charge any fees before it has successfully settled a debt and the consumer has approved the settlement.
• Makes Guarantees: No company can guarantee that creditors will negotiate or that debts can be eliminated for a specific percentage. Such promises are a hallmark of a scam.
• Guarantees Lawsuits Will Stop: Only bankruptcy's automatic stay can legally stop a lawsuit. A debt relief company cannot guarantee this.
• Advises Cutting Off All Creditor Communication: While a settlement company may handle negotiations, advising a complete communication blackout can cause the consumer to miss important legal notices, such as a summons for a lawsuit.
• Uses High-Pressure Sales Tactics: A reputable counselor or advisor will provide information and allow the consumer time to make an informed decision without pressure.

Essential Questions to Ask During a Consultation

Before signing any agreement, a consumer should have clear, written answers to the following questions:

• What are all the fees associated with this program, both one-time and recurring?
• Are you registered with the Utah Division of Consumer Protection?
• How, specifically, will this program impact my credit scores in the short and long term?
• What are the tax implications if any of my debt is forgiven?
• Which of my creditors have you successfully worked with in the past?
• What happens if a creditor refuses to work with you or decides to sue me?
• Can I receive a written copy of the service agreement to review before I commit?

By following this structured verification process and asking these critical questions, Utahns can effectively filter out fraudulent operators and choose a reputable partner to guide them on their path to financial recovery.

Utah-Specific and National Resources for Financial Assistance

The journey out of debt does not have to be undertaken alone. A wealth of free, low-cost, and government-sponsored resources are available to Utah residents. Utilizing these tools and services can provide unbiased education, direct assistance, and a clear path forward, often without the need for expensive commercial programs. The most trustworthy sources are those whose primary mission is public service, not profit.

State-Sponsored Educational Tools

• Utah State University Extension's Power Pay: Provided as a free public service, Power Pay is a powerful, self-directed debt elimination tool. Developed by Utah State University Extension, this online platform allows users to create a personalized, strategic debt repayment plan. It calculates how quickly a user can become debt-free and the total amount of interest they can save by following different payoff strategies, such as the "debt snowball" or "debt avalanche" methods. Because it is an educational tool from a public university, Power Pay is completely free of charge and provides unbiased guidance without trying to sell any products or services.

Accredited Non-Profit Counseling Agencies Serving Utah

For those seeking one-on-one guidance, non-profit credit counseling is the gold standard. These agencies provide free or low-cost budget counseling, financial education, and access to Debt Management Plans.

• National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC): Founded in 1951, the NFCC is the nation's largest and longest-serving non-profit financial counseling organization. Utah residents can find a certified, accredited member agency by visiting the NFCC website (nfcc.org) or calling their toll-free number.
• Specific Agencies Serving Utah: Several reputable non-profit organizations are licensed to provide services to Utah residents, including:
• Money Fit by DRS, Inc.: A non-profit service licensed in Utah that offers debt consolidation and credit counseling.
• Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Utah: A St. George-based, HUD-certified non-profit offering free financial counseling and low-cost DMPs.
• American Consumer Credit Counseling (ACCC): A national non-profit with a location in Provo that provides credit counseling and debt management services in all 50 states.

Housing and Low-Income Assistance

Addressing other financial pressures can free up income to dedicate toward debt repayment.

• HUD-Approved Housing Counseling: For homeowners struggling with mortgage payments, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) certifies non-profit agencies in Utah that provide free mortgage delinquency and foreclosure prevention counseling.
• State Assistance Programs: Utah offers several programs to assist low-income families, which can help stabilize a household's budget. These include the Home Energy Assistance Target (HEAT) program for utility assistance and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) for affordable healthcare for children.

Government and Regulatory Contacts

When consumers have questions, need to verify a company's license, or want to file a formal complaint, they should turn to the official regulatory bodies.

• Utah Division of Consumer Protection (DCP): The primary state agency for consumer complaints and the regulator for debt management services.
• Phone: (801) 530-6601 or (800) 721-7233 (toll-free in Utah).
• Email: consumerprotection@utah.gov.
• Website: dcp.utah.gov.
• Utah Department of Financial Institutions (DFI): Handles complaints related to state-chartered banks and credit unions.
• Phone: (801) 538-8830.
• Website: dfi.utah.gov.
• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB): A federal agency that supervises banks, lenders, and other financial companies. The CFPB maintains a public database of consumer complaints and is a primary resource for filing a complaint against a financial product or service provider.
• Phone: (855) 411-2372.  
• Website: consumerfinance.gov.  

By prioritizing these public and non-profit resources, Utah residents can access high-quality, trustworthy financial guidance. This approach ensures that the advice received is in the consumer's best interest, laying a solid foundation for a successful and sustainable journey out of debt.

Frequently Asked Questions