DebtWave Credit Counseling Logo

DebtWave Credit Counseling

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5.8

Overall Score

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LAST UPDATED: July 16th, 2020

DebtWave Credit Counseling, Inc. is a nonprofit credit counseling organization that seeks to help consumers become debt free. The process can take anywhere from three to five years with financial education, credit counseling, and debt consolidation services. Many of its financial education resources are free. The company provides a variety of online resources, such as calculators and a personal finance blog.

Along with its focus on financial education for consumers, DebtWave is active in the San Diego community. Its program, called San Diego Financial Literacy Center, focuses on helping youth, military, and low to moderate income families.

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The Good

  • Transparency
  • Great Value, Low Average Interest Rate
  • Positive Customer Reviews
  • Accredited Counselors

Transparency

DebtWave Credit Counseling (DWCC) is one of the most transparent consolidation companies in the industry. As evidence of this, the company highlights a large variety of features on its website.

Consumers can find information about its debt services, credit counseling, online calculators, a blog, and personal finance tips. DebtWave also displays information about its community outreach program.

The company even provides information on its executives and board members, while many other companies do not. Finally, it also provides a client login where customers can view the status of their accounts. They can monitor their payoff progress and savings. 

The company helps clients consolidate credit card debt and offers consumer credit counseling services. Credit counseling sessions involve reviewing a consumer’s credit report and score, helping the client create a monthly budget and finding a debt solution that best fits the customer’s needs.

This counseling service may include a debt management program. This type of program involves consolidating unsecured credit card debt into one, lower monthly payment.

Clients make monthly payments to DebtWave and it pays the client’s creditors. The company works to negotiate lower interest rates to help clients pay off debt more quickly and ultimately save money. 

Great Value, Low Average Interest Rate

DebtWave is a non-profit credit counseling agency, and its main purpose is to educate people on budget management and help them consolidate their credit card debts.

The company offers its services for a low fee of up to $49, which is relatively cheap for the level of service it provides. The company also offers a money-back guarantee for dissatisfied customers.

Additionally, DebtWave offers interest rates ranging from zero to 18 percent, with an average rate of about seven percent. Most companies in the debt consolidation industry do not disclose this information, which makes DebtWave seem more credible. These lower rates can help clients reduce their monthly payment and more rapidly pay off debt. 

Positive Customer Reviews

DebtWave reviews display high levels of satisfaction with the company's customer service. Its credit counselors are knowledgeable, friendly, and help customers really understand the entire consolidation process.

Many reviewers praised the detailed explanation of the debt management program. Also, client DebtWave reviews express appreciation for the company’s professionalism.

People are also happy about the low-interest rates DebtWave secured and their lower overall monthly payments.

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Customer Review: C. Sanders

"We will be forever grateful for all Debtwave has done for our family in helping us become financially fit once again."

Accredited Counselors

DebtWave's counselors are certified through the Center for Financial Certification. These credit counselors learn how to help clients establish a personal budget, improve money management patterns, increase credit scores, and develop a plan to overcome debt.

The certification ensures that each counselor is properly trained and has the skills necessary to assist consumers with personal finance needs.

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The Bad

  • Lack of Accreditations
  • Experience and Size
  • Limited Contact Hours
  • Higher Upfront Fee
  • Limited State Availability

Lack of Accreditations

While DebtWave is ISO certified and its credit counselors are certified by the Center for Financial Certification, the company does not hold accreditations with the American Fair Credit Council (AFCC) or the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC).

These two organizations help to ensure that consolidation companies adhere to best industry practices. Many other debt consolidation companies hold these accreditations.

Experience and Size

DebtWave is a smaller company (fewer than 50 employees) that has only been in business since 2001. This may not necessarily be a bad thing, but several other consolidation companies have nearly double the experience and staff.

Limited Contact Hours

Consumers interested in specific information about consolidation will need to call DebtWave. They do not answer industry or person specific questions through email.

This point was verified through user reviews. DebtWave’s operation hours are Monday through Thursday from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM Pacific Standard Time and from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Fridays. These hours are somewhat limited compared to other competitors.

Higher Upfront Fee

Another drawback to DebtWave's services is its higher upfront fee. The company charges up to $50 or $75 depending on the program and state.

Many other companies have a lower upfront fee, only charging around $49 for the initial setup. However, this fee depends on the state and individual.

Limited State Availability

DebtWave is available almost everywhere. It is available in 46 states and claims that it may someday offer services in all 50.

Some of DebtWave's competitors are available in all 50 states, which allow more customers to use their services. Currently, DebtWave does not offer services in the following states and territories:

  • Colorado
  • Kansas
  • Maryland
  • New York
  • Puerto Rico

Residents of these states will need to seek other debt consolidation companies. 

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The Bottom Line

While DebtWave Credit Counseling, Inc. is relatively small, it offers many great features. The company may have a slightly higher upfront fee and does not possess some of the major industry accreditations. However, the transparency of their site is very appreciated, as this is not common in the industry.

Customers should note that DebtWave does not provide debt settlement or settlement agreement services, only debt consolidation and credit counseling. The low average interest rate is another very appealing quality of the company.

The company provides great value to consumers, and consumers have regularly praised the company’s great customer service and effective debt solutions. Therefore, we feel comfortable recommending DebtWave's debt consolidation services.

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Star Rating

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4.7

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199 Reviews

Review Breakdown

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80%

4 grade

17%

3 grade

1%

2 grade

1%

1 grade

2%

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Joanne Taylor

I transferred credit card debt to Debtwave a few years ago and it has been great. It is scary picking a company when it comes to finances, however, they had great reviews a few years ago and still do so that made me feel better. My personal experience has been great too. Customer service is great and helpful. They make sure that things are going okay with your plan and ask for statements to ensure their records are accurate. I ended up paying less than I was paying on my own WITH Debtwave's fee AND the capital is actually going down vs being spent all on interest. Their fee is very reasonable too. I have less than a year now and I am so excited about the improvement of my finances! If you are considering consolidating debt I highly recommend Debtwave, without it I would be paying credit card debt forever!

7 years ago

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John Borges Suisun City, CA

My experience of Rebeca Perez at DebtWave Credit counseling was extremely refreshing! With them, I can pay my bills off at a reduced interest rate, much sooner than I had imagined. I was surprised to find a company that provided what I truly needed to deal with my credit card debt. It was flexible to my particular situation, yet a powerful tool at my disposal. Rebeca was knowledgeable, patient, (I ask a lot of questions), caring, kind, and funny. This is gloomy stuff pouring over my, less than stellar, finances. Yet Rebeca made it almost fun. And, in the end, I felt I had taken a huge step to being debt free!

7 years ago

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Nicole Ichiki Los Angeles, CA

JoJo Sanchez is the exact kind of person you'd want to guide you in your journey to financial stability. She is patient and explains everything in explicit detail. This program is NOT a scam and is saving me money. I will be debt free in 4 years and cannot wait. Thank you JoJo for your professionalism, guidance, and great communication. If you are researching this is the company to go with. I researched debt settlement as well and that seems to be way more illogical for me. Another plus with DebtWave is if you want to pay early you can. Some companies do not want that so they can keep collecting their monthly service fees. DebtWave is there to help you get out of debt faster! Anyone looking to get out of debt should consider this program. This was the solution. Thank you JoJo & DebtWave!

7 years ago

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Lacey Chattanooga, TN

My only question is why haven't i found this company earlier???? AMAZING service low monthly fee to use their services and low start one time start up fee. So worth it I had credit card interest rates out of the roof paying 150+ just in interest this company got my interest rates down and even got one to 0% interest!!!! Unheard of customer service and exceptional benefits. Yes the credit cards have to be closed which is just another benefit when you stop using them you get closer to your goal!!!!!!! Cannot say enough good stuff about this company scared at first but sooooooo worth every penny!!! No more harrassing phone calls can check balance online and one payment which saved me 200+ monthly not counting saving on interest alone. Dont hesitate get help today!!!

8 years ago

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C. Sanders Perry, GA

My husband and I had so many different credit cards and the payments were overwheling. Debt . Debtwave customer representative took loads of stress off of our sholders by contacting our creditors and getting the interest rates lowered and consolidating everything to one monthly payment. We will be forever grateful for all Debtwave has done for our family in helping us become financially fit once again. The Sanders family

6 years ago

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Charlene Donnelly

I have used Debtwave in the past and have once again just begun another journey! This companty goes above and beyond in all that they do. Giliane is the epitome of professionaism. She helped me with every detail of becoming debt free. Let's face it, this is a situation that no one wants to be in, but unfortunately many of us are. Having Debtwave to turn to, just made everything so easy. I have recommended them to friends and family! Just a wonderful company to deal with. Can not say enough good things about them!!

6 years ago

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Dana Barry

I was very hesitant to call, but I did and Rebecca P explained in detail the program and relieved all my stress about reaching out for help with my debt. She explained the program very throughly and my stress was relieved to know that there is help available. I appreciate her knowledge in explaining the program and to know I will be debt free in 3years is amazing! I appreciated her knowledge of all the program and feel confident in this company.

7 years ago

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Tania Palmer

Gillian was very helpful and understanding of my current situation. She was very supportive with my goal to pay off debt to start a more organized tomorrow to gradually improve my credit. I can't thank her enough for all of her time, patience and effort. She was articulate with describing the program and discussed all fees so I will be left with no surprises. Thanks again Gilian! Tania

7 years ago

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happy customer San Francisco, CA

I was going through a divorce and needed to pay down debt accrued during the marriage. I didn't want to declare bankruptcy, but I was stressed out. DebtWave counselors and customer service do not make you feel like a loser. They helped me by negotiating favorable terms with my credit card companies. Four years later, I'm nearly done with paying off my considerable debt. If you aren't comfortable negotiating with credit card companies, or you need a partner in your debt reduction, I recommend DebtWave.

7 years ago

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HM Hanson, MA

Absolutley perfect!! Not one issue. Rebeca was wondeful. Very informative, helpful, detailed, friendly, and honest. From the very beginning i felt and knew i was in the right hands. She was a huge help in lifting a heavy burden. Cari has been a blessing as well. Although we only spoke a few times she went out of her way to explain things to me and answer every question! Awesome response times as well. So far, extremely pleased with our decision. Thank you for the support!

7 years ago

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BEVERLY McGuire

Her name was Rebeca and she was one of the nicest people I've have ever delt with. She was patient and very helpful. My computer skills are not the best, but she made me feel good about how I was doing. Thank you, it was a good expeirence. I am happy I decided to apply. And am sure it will be great for me to do this .thank you, and thank you Rebeca

7 years ago

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Delphine Scott Sacramento, CA

I had the opportunity to have American Debt Enders advise me on options that would help me with my mounting debt. As I advance in age I wish to make better choices and increase my personal security. I found the agent to be an active listener, professional and patient. The service he outlined for me served me well. I found myself relieved to be eventually rid of debt in a few years.

7 years ago

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Jim West Palm Beach, FL

I was very skeptical using a debt service as there are so many that are not legitimate. Since DebtWave is non-profit, I thought I would give them a chance. DebtWave is absolutely and without question an honest and reliable service. I have never had a problem. There customer service is excellent. Their fee is exactly as stated and very reasonable for the service they provide. They have saved me thousands of dollars in interest which allowed me to pay off my credit card debt considerably faster than other wise.

8 years ago

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Garrett Masters Harrisburg, NC

I recently called Debtwave to get some incite and help with my debt. Jo Jo was fantastic with explaining how Debtwave can help me and get my debt dramatically lowered. She is very professional and always upbeat every time I spoke with her. I am excited about the great opportunity Debtwave has given me to get out of debt. Thanks, Debtwave and JoJo

8 years ago

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Lenora Byrd Springfield, OH

I heard about this company from my Dept of Education Counselor. Speaking with Jo Jo has been awesome. She has explained all the necessary steps I need to management my debt in a short time than me paying it off by myself. This is one individual that knows how to make a person feel good in the direction that is being taken. I enjoy her customer service and she makes me feel like a human being should. Calls are answered and if a msg is left she calls back. Love her personality and her patience when explaining the steps one will take.

8 years ago

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Brad Rowley Phoenix, AZ

I worked with their customer service today. What made this experience great was the great attitude - rep was happy and I sensed it in their voice. Rep was respectful and showed patience with me. Customer service is very informative - answered all of my questions professionally and explained in concise detail what was going to happen. I wish every person I spoke to over the phone had the wherewithal, knowledge, friendly demeanor, and professionalism they had. Thank you for your assistance and keep up the great work!!

8 years ago

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marcia Dula Stockbridge, GA

I am so thankful about learning of this wonderful company. It is so exiting that I'm able to totally get out of debt and stay out of debt, using this great company. Ms. Jo-Jo was great. she was very patient and empathetic to my needs. I thank her greatly. She explained everything with no judgement .and made me feel very comfortable and not ashamed of my financial situation of credit cards. I thank her greatly.

8 years ago

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Michele Lodge South Orange, NJ

I'm not one on writing letters but this is one I could not pass up ...When I spoke with Miss Sanchez about my situation in consolidating my bills she explain to me how it went in a professional manner, she was very professional and on point, I ask her a 100 questions and she answered all, with all the questions that was answer it made my decision much easier. she made me feel very comfortable with my decision. Thank You Ms Sanchez

8 years ago

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Randi Jo Bellingham, WA

DebtWave has been amazing. They have helped me through so much. I am absolutely grateful for everything they have done to make getting through these hardships easier and less stressful. Their customer service is also outstanding, each and every one has been nothing but pleasant -speaking to me with respect and helping me keep my dignity. I recommend their services to anyone who may need a little extra hand in getting through those rough patches in life.

8 years ago

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Bema Day TX

I wouldn't have made it through the process without her. She was confident I could do it. She walked me through from the beginning to the end. Explained every detail. She was professional, polite, courteous, and not judgmental. She assured me that everything was confidential. So many times representatives make consumers feel irresponsible and inept. No so with this representative. She made me feel relaxed. Thank God I got one of your best representatives.

8 years ago

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Alberto Rivera San Antonio, TX

Israel did an amazing job explaining everything for the Debt management program. He listed out both pros and cons of being on the program. Calculated all numbers quickly and gave me an idea of what I would be saving and how long it would take to pay off my debt.

6 years ago

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Kimberly Francois

Gilliane was most helpful. I made the call to Debtwave as a stressed person and hung up feeling relieved. I didn't think there was a solution to my situation but Gilliane gave me hope. I will be credit card debt free in 3 yrs and 3 months.

7 years ago

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Wayne Myles

The service provided by Ms S was very professional. She was very patient and courteous while allowing me to take my time to ensure that I understood the process. Ms. S walked me through the various options at my disposal. This was a very rewarding experience.

7 years ago

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Michelle Concord, NH

Jo-Jo is fantastic! She made me feel comfortable and helped me through an embarrassing and difficult time in my life. I feel as if a great weight has been lifted and I can see a debt free life in the very near future. Thank you Jo-Jo!!

7 years ago

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Marnie

Although I did not have to use the services I dealt with Jo-Jo Sanchez. Jo-Jo was kind and patient with me, she scheduled our calls on my lunches and was always more prompt than I could be. She helped me through many hurdles and doubts. If I had to use the services I would definitely go through this company!

7 years ago

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Nesi San Francisco, CA

Ms. Perez is well-informed with your services, and as such, she relayed the message in a professional and patient manner. She took the time to explain things that I didn't understand, and also displayed a very high level of customer service. She did not interrupt me, listened to my questions, then answered them clearly. Thank you Rebecca.

7 years ago

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D Ortiz New Haven, CT

I had scheduling problem to set up a call time, but Jo-Jo worked with me to make it work. Even though I had to reschedule several times due to missing cards or info, she was patient and made it possible to apply for the repayment plan.

7 years ago

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michele Roanoke, VA

HIGHLY recommend their services. I am so relieved now that we have a plan to get out of debt. I only wish I had called sooner. The struggle to stay afloat with the bills is gone and the insane APR's are gone too! Slept soundly for the first time in months.

7 years ago

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Tenice Holman Los Angeles, CA

More than awesome customer service. For me to have someone that is understanding, nonjudgmental, and just wants to execute a plan is exactly what I needed. This opportunity is truly a huge blessing, and has come at the exact perfect time.

7 years ago

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Michael Lingerfelt Jefferson, GA

Jo-jo Sanchez was very friendly and made me feel like a person rather than just another client. Great customer service is what I will say when I am asked about Debtwave just from what I have experienced so far. Thank you all for your help in getting my financial goals in order!

7 years ago

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Jack Ormond Beach, FL

Received very helpful and straightforward advice with a two alternative very workable solution. For certain will enroll in the program once I select one of the two alternatives. Amazing speed and turnaround in producing detailed analyses within the same initial phone call!!

8 years ago

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Shay Atlanta, GA

I am so glad to have found this company. Jo-Jo is awesome. She explained everything to me in great detailed and I am confident that I made that right decision to use this company to get out of debt! I recommend Debtwave Credit Counseling to anyone who wants to get out of debt fast. You won't regret it!

8 years ago

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Sandra Luling, TX

We had used a debt company before years ago and they were terrible. I found Debt Wave and they were totally different. All of the people we have dealt with were great and they really cared. I cannot say enough good about them, if you are in dire need of help Please contact them.

8 years ago

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Ryan Conn Twentynine Palms, CA

We had no idea what to do with all of our medical bills and looming credit card debt...Just NO end in sight! We made one phone call, and that was all it took! We picked a program and were able to get one lower monthly payment! We feel like we can breath again!!! Thank you!

8 years ago

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Shelby Doloughty Pittsburgh, PA

Brittany was amazing she went out of her way while working with me to make me understand and feel comfortable with the whole process. I feel like a huge weight has been lifted and I can finally get my life back in order. Thank you Brittany and Debtwave!

8 years ago

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Stuart Phoenix, AZ

My consultant was Brittany. She was very professional, helpful and confident. She explained the program in detail to help me make a wise decision. Brittany was patient and not pushy. She wanted me to be informed to make the best decision and I appreciate her for that.

8 years ago

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Ericka Modesto, CA

Jo-jo was great she was very informative and very patient with me. She helped me to feel and be comfortable with my decision to use there company. I really wanted a loan but because of my current situation that was not possible. Well I'm on my way now to paying off debt in 3yrs instead of 13yrs. Lol

8 years ago

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Victoria TX

My experience was pretty awesome. I gave it a 9 because I had questions that I asked through email which were never answered. The response I kept receiving was basically call between 7-4 MST. When I called every question I had was answered, I would have preferred an explanation as to why they weren't answered through email though. Other than that my experience getting signed up was great. I can't wait to see how well this helps!!

8 years ago

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Brandi Zeiber Alburtis, PA

I spoke with Jo Jo and I have to say she was so nice, and comforting to speak to. This isn't something I am proud to have to do, and she did not make me feel any less of a person for what situation. I would recommend anyone going to Debt Wave just by having the awesome experience that I had with her

8 years ago

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Kathryn Manning Brattleboro, VT

Jo Jo was fairly easy to deal with. She knows her stuff and I had many questions which she did not hesitate to answer. She was pleasant and personable, quick and efficient. Sometimes a little too quick for me it seems, I needed to ask her to repeat herself several times as I did not follow at her speed. Overall, it was a good experience for me and I did enjoy it. Thank you Jo Jo, you made it easy for me to get my finances in order and get back on my feet.

8 years ago

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jessica San Diego, CA

Giliane is extremely knowledgeable and professional. She had all the answers to my questions. The entire process was hassle free and not at all time consuming. It took me a month to get on board because I was scared to close the accounts, but when I was ready Gilliane took care of me!

8 years ago

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Leanne Triunfo Fairfield, CT

Jo-Jo was simply amazing. She explained things in a clear, coherent manner and was very helpful in setting up my account to best benefit me. She was personable and treated me with respect. I thoroughly enjoyed this experience because of her great attitude!

8 years ago

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Ron Olson Valrico, FL

Giliane provided me with excellent professional service. My questions were answered. She was very thorough and helped me to see the benefits of the program. I am expecting my experience with the other team members to be what Giliane has modeled.

8 years ago

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Osi V O San Antonio, TX

I really appreciated the professionalism and ease of handling my case. It has enabled me have peace of mind knowing that each and every monthly payment actually goes towards reducing my balance. Thank you so much Gilliane Gurrero. Godbless.

8 years ago

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Briana Prince Pittsburgh, PA

The representative walked me through everything I needed to know and answered all my questions. The service provided to me was very satisfactory and helped me a great deal. I will definitely recommend this company to those in need of financial help.

8 years ago

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Katrwna Holt, MI

Currently working with Dawn and she’s AWESOME! If I have questions I can ALWAYS reach her. If not by phone I can get her by email. Very knowledgeable and keeps me on my toes. I LOVE this company!

4 years ago

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Susan Conder

Israel rocks!!!!!!!! He was so kind and as embarrassing as my situation is, he did not make me feel less and really took the time to answer my 200 million questions I asked him. Thank you, Israel.

6 years ago

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Mary Ellen Bates

I just want to thank everyone at your company for being so nice, especially Rebecca and Cari . This is a 10 in my review for this company , so promp in calling and e-mailing etc. Sincerely Mary Ellen Bates

6 years ago

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Paul

Rebeca was great with DEBTWAVE CREDIT COUNSELING. She was very friendly, explained things clearly, answered my questions, and called and emailed back in a timely manner. My only suggestion would be to allow more time to read and complete the Debtwave Package forms. Lots to go over and digest with such an important decision.

7 years ago

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Susan LaPisto West Covina, CA

I am a new customer to DebtWave Credit Counseling , Inc. I spoke with Jo-Jo S. She was extremely helpful with reviewing my situation. I am looking forward to improving my credit score and becoming debt free..

7 years ago