Debt Relief ClearOne Advantage: Complete Review & Guide 2025

Struggling with overwhelming debt can feel like an insurmountable challenge, but debt settlement companies like ClearOne Advantage offer a potential path to financial freedom. With over 16 years of experience in the debt relief industry, Debt Relief ClearOne Advantage has helped thousands of consumers reduce their unsecured debt burdens. This comprehensive review examines everything you need to know about ClearOne Advantage’s debt settlement services, including their process, fees, pros and cons, and alternatives.

What Is ClearOne Advantage?

ClearOne Advantage is a debt settlement company based in Baltimore, Maryland, that specializes in negotiating with creditors to reduce unsecured debt balances for clients facing financial hardship. Founded in 2008, the company has built a reputation as a legitimate debt relief provider, having resolved over $3 billion in debt for its clients.

The company focuses exclusively on debt settlement services, working with clients who have significant unsecured debt from credit cards, personal loans, medical bills, and other non-secured obligations. Debt Relief ClearOne Advantage operates in select U.S. states and requires a minimum debt amount to enroll in their program.

How ClearOne Advantage Debt Settlement Works

The Debt Settlement Process

ClearOne Advantage follows a structured approach to debt settlement that typically unfolds over 24 to 48 months:

Initial Consultation: The process begins with a free consultation where ClearOne’s debt specialists assess your financial situation, review your debts, and determine if you qualify for their program.

Program Enrollment: If approved, you’ll enroll in their debt settlement program and stop making payments to your creditors. Instead, you’ll make monthly deposits into a dedicated savings account.

Account Accumulation: As funds accumulate in your dedicated account, ClearOne’s negotiation team begins working with your creditors to arrange settlement agreements.

Settlement Negotiations: ClearOne’s experienced negotiators work to secure settlements typically ranging from 40% to 60% of your original debt balance before fees.

Settlement Approval: You must approve each settlement offer before ClearOne proceeds with payment to your creditors.

Debt Resolution: Once settlements are paid and your debts are resolved, you’ll have successfully completed the program.

Client Support and Monitoring

ClearOne Advantage provides clients with access to an online portal where they can monitor their progress, track payments, and communicate with their dedicated support team. This transparency helps clients stay informed throughout the settlement process.

ClearOne Advantage Fees and Costs

Understanding the fee structure is crucial when evaluating any debt settlement company. Debt Relief ClearOne Advantage follows an industry-standard fee model with some important considerations:

Fee Structure

• No Upfront Fees: ClearOne doesn’t charge any upfront fees, which is a positive aspect that aligns with industry best practices
• Performance-Based Fees: Fees are only charged after successful settlement negotiations
• Settlement Fee: The company charges approximately 20% to 25% of the enrolled debt amount
• Payment Timing: Fees are collected only after a settlement is arranged, approved by the client, and at least one payment is made toward the settlement

Cost Example

If you enroll $20,000 in debt and ClearOne successfully negotiates settlements totaling $12,000, you would pay approximately $4,000 to $5,000 in fees (20-25% of the original $20,000 enrolled debt).

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for ClearOne Advantage’s debt settlement program, you must meet several criteria:

• Minimum Debt Amount: ClearOne has a higher minimum debt requirement compared to some competitors
• Unsecured Debt Only: The program only covers unsecured debts like credit cards, personal loans, and medical bills
• Financial Hardship: You must demonstrate genuine financial hardship that prevents you from paying your debts in full
• Geographic Availability: Services are only available in select U.S. states
• Ability to Save: You must be able to make consistent monthly deposits into your settlement savings account

Pros and Cons of ClearOne Advantage

Advantages

Experienced Company: With 16 years in business and over $3 billion in resolved debt, ClearOne has proven experience in debt settlement.

No Upfront Fees: The performance-based fee structure means you don’t pay unless settlements are successfully negotiated.

Dedicated Support: Clients receive access to dedicated debt specialists and an online portal for monitoring progress.

BBB Accreditation: ClearOne Advantage is BBB accredited, indicating adherence to business standards.

Educational Resources: The company provides educational materials to help clients understand the debt settlement process.

Clear Communication: Many clients report that representatives provide thorough, plain-language explanations of the settlement process.

Disadvantages

High Fees: The 20-25% fee structure is on the higher end compared to some competitors in the debt settlement industry.

Limited Availability: Services are only available in select states, limiting access for many consumers.

No Tax Debt Services: ClearOne doesn’t handle IRS or tax debt, which some competitors do offer.

Credit Score Impact: Like all debt settlement programs, participating will negatively impact your credit score during the process.

No Guarantee: There’s no guarantee that creditors will accept settlement offers, and the process can take 24-48 months.

Potential for Collections: During the settlement process, creditors may pursue collection activities or legal action.

ClearOne Advantage Reviews and Ratings

Customer feedback provides valuable insight into ClearOne Advantage’s performance:

• Trustpilot Rating: 4-star rating based on over 9,600 reviews
• Customer Satisfaction: Many clients report satisfaction with the communication and explanation of the settlement process
• Savings Results: Customers commonly report savings of 40% to 60% on their original debt balances before fees
• Process Transparency: Clients appreciate the clear explanations and regular updates throughout the settlement process

However, some reviews mention concerns about higher-than-expected fees and the extended timeline for debt resolution.

Alternatives to ClearOne Advantage

Before committing to any debt settlement company, consider these alternatives:

Other Debt Settlement Companies

• National Debt Relief: Often offers more competitive fee structures
• CuraDebt: May be better for tax debt issues
• Freedom Debt Relief: Larger company with broader state availability

Non-Settlement Options

• Debt Consolidation Loans: Combine multiple debts into a single loan with potentially lower interest rates
• Credit Counseling: Non-profit organizations offer free or low-cost counseling and debt management plans
• Balance Transfer Credit Cards: Transfer high-interest debt to cards with promotional 0% APR periods
• Bankruptcy: In severe cases, Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy may provide better protection and debt relief

Is ClearOne Advantage Right for You?

ClearOne Advantage may be a good fit if you:

• Have significant unsecured debt ($10,000 or more typically)
• Are experiencing genuine financial hardship
• Live in a state where ClearOne operates
• Can afford to make consistent monthly savings deposits
• Understand and accept the risks to your credit score
• Are prepared for a 2-4 year process

ClearOne Advantage may not be suitable if you:

• Have primarily secured debt (mortgages, auto loans)
• Need help with tax debt
• Live in a state where they don’t operate
• Cannot afford their fee structure
• Need faster debt resolution
• Want to preserve your credit score

Tips for Success with Debt Settlement

If you decide to proceed with ClearOne Advantage or any debt settlement company:

1. Read Everything Carefully: Understand all terms, fees, and potential consequences before signing
2. Maintain Your Savings: Consistently make deposits to your settlement savings account
3. Stay Informed: Use the online portal to monitor your progress regularly
4. Communicate Proactively: Maintain open communication with your debt specialist
5. Prepare for Credit Impact: Understand that your credit score will be negatively affected during the process
6. Document Everything: Keep records of all communications and settlement agreements
7. Consider Tax Implications: Forgiven debt may be considered taxable income

Conclusion

ClearOne Advantage represents a legitimate option in the debt settlement industry, with over 16 years of experience and billions of dollars in resolved debt. Their no-upfront-fee structure, dedicated client support, and transparent online monitoring system are notable advantages.

However, their higher fee structure (20-25%) and limited geographic availability may make other options more attractive for some consumers. The 24-48 month timeline and inevitable credit score impact are also important considerations that apply to all debt settlement programs.

Before choosing Debt Relief ClearOne Advantage or any debt settlement company, carefully evaluate your financial situation, explore all available alternatives, and consider consulting with a non-profit credit counselor. Debt settlement can provide significant relief for those facing overwhelming debt, but it’s not the right solution for everyone.

Remember that the best debt relief strategy is the one that aligns with your specific financial circumstances, goals, and risk tolerance. Take time to research thoroughly, ask questions during consultations, and make an informed decision that sets you on the path to long-term financial stability.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Individual results may vary, and debt settlement may not be appropriate for all consumers. Consider consulting with a qualified financial advisor before making decisions about debt relief.