Security freezes and credit locks both protect against identity theft, but only one is free and backed by federal law. Learn which option is right for you.

Facing overwhelming debt forces a critical decision between debt settlement and bankruptcy. After 17 years as a Board Certified Credit Consultant helping over 79,000 clients, I've witnessed how this choice shapes financial futures. Debt settlement involves negotiating with creditors to accept less than you owe, typically 40-60% of balances, while avoiding bankruptcy's legal proceedings.