Avoid Debt Relief Scams — Red Flags & How We Stay Compliant

Common red flags

Demanding upfront fees before any service is performed
Guarantees of a specific interest rate, savings amount, or "instant" credit repair
Pressure to sign today or share banking information immediately
No written disclosures, or vague, unclear program terms
Requiring a hard credit pull just to "see options"
Refusing to provide a callback number, license information, or company address

How we stay compliant

No upfront fees. You will see terms before enrolling in anything.
TCPA-compliant consent. We only contact you by phone, text, or email if you have opted in, and you can revoke consent at any time by calling +1 (888) 437-7141 or emailing support@gatewaydebthelp.com.
Soft, no-obligation intake. Reviewing your options through our form does not require a hard credit pull.
Plain-English disclosures. You will know timelines, potential fees, and what to expect before you commit to anything.
FTC-aligned messaging. We do not promise guaranteed savings, guaranteed approval, or guaranteed timelines — see the disclaimers on every page of this site.

How to verify a company

Confirm they do not charge fees before performing any service.
Ask for written disclosures before you sign anything.
Confirm you can preview options without a hard credit pull.
Check their listing on the Better Business Bureau website.
Verify licensing or registration with your state attorney general or financial regulator — see our state rules guide.

If you suspect a scam

Report it to the Federal Trade Commission, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, or your state attorney general. These links open official government portals in a new tab.

Get Your Free Options Summary

Answer a few quick questions and we will follow up with options tailored to you. Secure & confidential. No obligation.

Frequently asked questions

Should a legitimate debt relief company ever ask for payment upfront?

No. Reputable providers only charge after work is performed and you approve the result, in line with FTC rules on debt relief services.

Can checking my options hurt my credit?

Reviewing your options with us does not require a hard credit pull. Any specific program you pursue afterward will disclose its own credit-check policy before you apply.

Where do I report a suspected scam?

Report to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov, the CFPB at consumerfinance.gov/complaint, or your state attorney general.

Avoid Debt Relief Scams — Simple Ways to Stay Safe