Championing Ethical Debt Relief for Consumers Nationwide

The Association for Consumer Debt Relief (ACDR) is the leading national association of debt relief companies. The ACDR educates consumers and policymakers about debt relief and its benefits, holds debt relief companies to the highest standards, and protects and expands access to accredited debt relief services nationwide.

  • Our Mission

    Our mission is to educate consumers and policymakers about debt relief and its benefits, hold debt relief companies to the highest industry standards, and protect and expand access to accredited debt relief services nationwide.

  • Our Vision

    To ensure consumers in every state have access to high-quality accredited debt relief services.

What we stand for

Our Core Principles Drive a Fair, Transparent, and Consumer-First Debt Relief Industry

  • Debt Relief Overview

    Debt relief allows consumers in financial distress to resolve their unsecured debts. By working with an ACDR accredited debt relief company, individuals in severe financial hardship can settle their unsecured debts for a lower amount than what they owe and regain their financial footing. As consumers struggle with economic uncertainty, the debt relief industry has become even more integral to the financial health of the American consumer.

  • Education & Awareness

    The ACDR supports debt relief companies by educating consumers and policymakers about debt relief and its benefits as well as protecting and expanding access to accredited debt relief services for consumers nationwide. The ACDR also holds its member companies to the highest industry standards.

  • Industry Standards & Accreditation

    ACDR holds its member companies to the highest standards – going beyond already stringent federal regulations to protect consumers throughout their debt relief programs. In addition, ACDR accredited member companies undergo a robust audit by an independent auditor biennially. ACDR accredited member companies never charge a fee for their services until a consumer’s debt has been successfully negotiated, and the consumer has agreed to and made a payment towards the settlement.

  • Policy & Advocacy

    ACDR is a voice for fair, effective regulation of the debt relief industry. We work with state and federal policymakers to support legislation that protects consumers and encourages accessible, responsible debt relief solutions.

Our Journey

Uniting for Stronger Standards, Consumer Protection, and Industry Leadership

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Formation of Founding Organizations

Two independent industry groups begin working toward a common goal: promoting ethical, consumer-first debt relief practices.

Development of Accreditation Framework

Industry leaders establish a formal accreditation process to distinguish trustworthy and transparent debt relief providers.

Expansion of Educational & Advocacy Efforts

Public awareness campaigns and policymaker engagement initiatives are launched to promote understanding of responsible debt relief.

Organizational Merger to Form ACDR

The two leading organizations unite to form the Association for Consumer Debt Relief (ACDR), amplifying their shared mission.

Launch of ACDR Platform

ACDR unveils its new name, identity, and website — solidifying its role as the national voice for accredited debt relief companies.

Meet our leadership team

Our team represents a vast swath of the debt relief, personal finance, and financial services industries. We are focused on a proactive agenda that advances the industry while also protecting consumers.

Board Members →

Meet the Team →

Work With Us

Partner with us to shape the future of debt relief.

Whether you’re a policymaker, consumer advocate, journalist, or industry professional, we welcome opportunities to collaborate in support of a fair, transparent, and consumer-focused debt relief landscape.