Freedom Debt Relief - How good a company is it?

I just got served by on of my creditors and FDR can not do a thing about it. They are going to garnish my wages even though I have been working with FDR who promised to nogosiate with my creditors. I had to stop working with FDR and file a chapter 7. FDR came out ahead they kept over $2600.00 of my money. They are just taking your money and doing nothing for you.

Unfortunately, that is one of the dangers of doing settlements in general. No company can protect you from lawsuits if the creditors don't want to negotiate, or your company is too lazy or too incompetent to do their job. The fault lies with the companies that promise they CAN prevent lawsuits, because it just ain't so. Even attorney-based settlement comanies can't prevent it, although it is less likely.

FDR is a real company, and likely provides a good service.
FDR is owned by Bills.com and they also have many AKA company names with the Freedom Debt xyz title.
BBB complaints are hard to avoid when you deal with thousands of consumers who are in debt. Unfortunately there is always a % of consumers who want to blame everyone but themselves for their woes. Debt settlement is ONLY for people who have a legitimate financial hardship, have over 10k in Credit card debt, and understand this is a last ditch effort before bankruptcy. The lower the debt amount you have the less favorable settlement is to you. People with over 30k in credit card debt and have a hardship, but some income to work with can benefit the most from Debt settlement.

If you see debt Settlement companies using these phrases in their marketing DO NOT USE THEIR SERVICE.

"Lower your payments by"...
You do not make ANY monthly payments to your creditors while in debt settlement. You save your own money, until you have enough to make an offer to the creditor to pay off a reduced amount.

"Cut your monthly expenses" is an acceptable phrase.
In settlement your savings plan averages about half of what your normal CC monthly payment is, thus your monthly expenses are lowered. However this is NOT a payment to your creditors and is why that marketing slogan is deceptive.

Anything that suggests you can have your debt settled in under 18 months is deceptive. If the credit card company thought you had enough money to pay the debt off in 9-18 months, well you have enough income to pay the whole thing off period and no negotiate will take place. On the flip side, companies offering programs that last more than 42 months are doing a disservice. No creditor will want to wait that long to get paid, they will likely file a law suite.
Bottom line, is that you want to be able to save up and pay off your reduced debt within 24 months.

70% debt reductions - Pure BS. Although sometimes this can happen with some smaller debts, the average is 50% PLUS the cost of the service.

Lower your interest rates
Pure BS - Settlement has nothing to do with your interest rates. These marketers are using the benefits of 3 programs all wrapped into one, to fool you into applying. RUN.

** No disclosures on the website? No Privacy policy? No Terms of USE? RUN. This is a Lead Generator who will sell your info around the internet.

"As Seen On" ABC, Oprah, NBC.. or pick the network. It's bull. Virtually all of these references refer to some obscure and general mention of debt settlement on the mentioned network.

No Fee Gaurantee - Okay great, what about the upfront fee? The admin fee, and other fees?

A-Z service. Never use a company that does not settle their own debt. A sales only company, has no vested interest in your outcome. They can tell you anything they want, because once you sign up, they get paid. Then 36 months from now the company responsible for the sales reps promise have to deliver.. they don't. If the settlement company handles both the consultation and debt settlement then they have a vested interest in your success.

Credit - Your credit will get hammered. If you think staying in debt is worth having a decent credit score then you should not use settlement... and perhaps should go take a financial education course. Please get an honest assesment of your credit score and don't assume it is "good".

LOL....go to the Freedom Debt Relief website and click on the Top Debt Settlement tab. It will make you laugh. They say they got a $29,290.82 credit card debt to $3,000.00 for their client. And there are many other outrageous claims in that section....LOL.

That sounds WAY to good to be true.....LOL.

My grandmother always said, if it sounds to good to be true, it usually is...just cut back, get creative, work another job, move in w/ friends or family, sell the things you do not need and don't buy anymore stuff...it is all about being frugal. Actually, I would call the credit card companies myself and ask them to take a percentage of the balance and close the account. It's better than getting nothing or charging off the account. It's worth a shot to salvage your credit score, because just when you think you don't need it...you really do! Good luck

Wow! Are we all talking about the same company here?
I have been working with FDR for almost two years, and they
never said anything about guarantees. They have, however, doen exactly as they told me they would, which is negotiate with my creditors. One debt was settled for 39% of what I owed, and my credit score indicated "Account Closed by Customer - Paid in Full." The other account is still being negotiated. I have always been informed that when I have enough in my bank balance, they will negotiate on my behalf. They cannot, and have never tried to, insinuate that they could guarantee an agreement with my creditor. I am 100% happy with the service I have been given, but I can understand how an individual expecting a company to bail him or her out of a financial mess would be dissatisfied with not having immediate relief.

Wow! Are we all talking about the same company here?
I have been working with FDR for almost two years, and they
never said anything about guarantees. They have, however, doen exactly as they told me they would, which is negotiate with my creditors. One debt was settled for 39% of what I owed, and my credit score indicated "Account Closed by Customer - Paid in Full." The other account is still being negotiated. I have always been informed that when I have enough in my bank balance, they will negotiate on my behalf. They cannot, and have never tried to, insinuate that they could guarantee an agreement with my creditor. I am 100% happy with the service I have been given, but I can understand how an individual expecting a company to bail him or her out of a financial mess would be dissatisfied with not having immediate relief.

They can't do squat. If a company gets a summons on you they will not do anything. They got me for $4000.00 till I got smart and dumped them. Don't get hooked by the smooth talking ads about getting rid of all your debts. ^ months and nothing was resolved. Get an attorney....it's worth the price.
My attorney did more in 90 days than Freedom did in 6 months. Some of their empolyees have a very bad attitude and treat you like dirt. I'm glad they did....WOKE ME UP TO THIER CON.

I worked for fremont bank for 10 years and I have to say freedom debt relief almost awalys gets lowest settelment for its clients. I am sure upper managment dose not like them but I do due to their quick settlements and they awalys pay the amount agreed upon on time.

This site works to refer two other debt consolidation companies. Freedom had the least amount of complaints and were up front about what to do when the IRS taxes you on the amount settled. He told us what form to fill out to waive being taxed. I was on the line with resqudebt and the girl was reading from a script and had no idea about any othe the answers I was asking. Not to mention she was using high sales tactics and trying to make me sign right away.

I have used this company for the past three years and I am very pleased with the services they offer. I had so much debt and they have helped me settle for 40% to 50% of the debt and I only have one credit card left and I will be finished. I would refer this company to anyone that asked me. The issue is when clients do NOT read the contract before they sign it and do not understand the process of the contract and what will be happening.

There are 68 complaints with BBB that are all resolved. 68 complaints out of 84,000 clients to date is unreal. Therer are some people you can never please. They get the job done.

CBRU do you know even what you are talking about????? I don't think you know what is even going on. Its not a con. Dont be so bitter that you cant pay back the money you borrowed. If you pay your bill and not laywers, you wouldn't be in this position.

I am spinning my wheels...you have debited my account ranging from over $800 to whatever... only 4 creditors have accepted your so-called "proposals"... so where is my debited money going? I want a full refund ASAP and opt-out of your services.

I am in poor health and per my doctor's and attorney's advise--this has caused more health problems in relation to strokes, stress, etc.

I want a complete refund...you even paid on accounts that were not mine (creditors/loans). Every time i call--not one rep. is on the "same page" and all info is not consistent. I cannot physically handle this additional stress. It is less stressful to realize my credit card/loans debts--than to depend and attempt to work w/ you--per your requests!

Please refund all monies you have debited. To date--only 4 creditors out of 13 or 14 (which I was debited for) have agreed. So, the extra money floating around somewhere... and rejected via my CC holders/loan agencies--I PROMPTLY WANT BACK.

THIS WAS NOT AT ALL WHAT I EXPECTED. (HEADACHES--BLEEDING FROM VEINS IN MY BRAIN--TIA'S--YOU ARE NOT WORTH MY MONEY NOR MY LIFE!

PLEASE CONFIRM THIS REQUEST AND CONTACT ME VIA EMAIL. I AM CERTAIN YOU KNOW WHO I AM IN MINERAL WELLS, TX. HINT> (R. D-E)

I AM PRAYING THAT YOU TAKE ACTION AND ACTUALLY RESPOND WITH A CHRIST-LIKE ATTITUDE COUPLED W/ PROFESSIONALISM.

I DID CALL THE BBB... (INQUIRING)

I WISH I NEVER GOT INVOLVED. AS YOU KNOW, I AM PERMANENTLY DISABLED NOW AND ON A LIMITED SOC.SEC. INCOME...AND I HAVE ALLOWED YOU TO DEBIT EVERY DIME I GET FROM MY SS DISABILITY CHECK...TO THE EXTENT THAT I HAVE NO UTILITIES (WITH THE EXCEPTION OF ELECTRIC) WHICH I MOSTLY USE CANDLES AND FLSHLIGHTS TO KEEP THE BILL AT A MINIMUM.

NOW, I AM FACING EVICTION... I HAVEN'T ANY RELIEF AND WILL BECOME HOMELESS I AM SURE. PLEASE, PLEASE TAKE ME SERIOUSLY...

PLEASE, PLEASE REFUND ALL DEBITS YOU HAVE MADE THAT WERE DENIED VIA YOUR "PROPOSALS"...PERHAPS THIS WILL KEEP A ROOF OVER MY HEAD AND ALLOW MONEY FOR NECESSITIES AND UTILITIES. I AM TERMINALLY ILL WHICH OF COURSE, ONLY MY CONCERN AND NOT A BUSINESS ISSUE TO ALL OF YOU!

FDR is able to settle most accounts in 24 to 48 months with the first settlement with in the first 6 to 9 months. Success in the FDR program required client participation by making funds available so FDR can negotiate on the clients behalf. If this has not been the case for you please contact customer service so you can discuss your account and gain resolution.

I would just say to do your homework when researching companies. If you look at the facts any company that has a dispute with a government agency has there bbb score suspended. Im not defending anyone but what do you think the # of complaints are when the cc company jacks your rate from 6% to 20% and you have never been late. the bigger the company the more complaints you will have plain and simple. and credit councilling was started by a cc company in the first place, some debt settlement companies are not worth the breath they waste talking to you but you can go to tascsite.org to do homework about this new industry.

one last note i did the program and it works for the ones that see it though.....

I've been using Debt relief since December 2007 and out of my 4 debts which I tried to work with once I went on disability before things got bad to lower my payments was all I asked and they refused to work with me. So I stop paying them and after 3 months the calls to me start coming like they were the mafia you wouldn't believe how collectors talk to a person.
With Freedom yes they charge a fee as part of your monthly installments. I have 3 more months of those fees to be taken out then they will be paid for and all my withdrawl will go into my account to pay off creditors which by the way two have been settled and paid. I think their fees were worth it because they are getting paid to get the insults and brow beating I was taking and not dreading to answer my on phone has been the reward. The one thing I learned, is you can't charge up all this debt and think there won't be consequences when you can't pay it back. My credit is still shot and I am out of the fees I have to pay to Freedom for basically being my answer service, but that is the debt I have to pay for my error and a lesson learned that I really needed. So if you are looking for a quick fix don't get in debt otherwise don't report a company that is doing what they said they would do if you took the time to read the contract. Through Freedom you have access to the checking account your funds go to and you can see where every dollar is going to.

I just came across this program and wanted to post. I am currently in there program and there are pros and cons. First let me tell you my story. I was an idiot I used my credit cards to help out a family member to start a business well the business flopped and guess who got stuck with 80k in debt. I have learned my lesson but I could not make the 1800/month minimum payments the credit card companied kept raising there rates and would not work with me. So after much research to a chance with Freedom Debt Relief.

Pros: Yes they have settled almost all my cards now. I am almost out of debt and my credit report shows paid in full so far on these. I use true credit to keep track and if I have any questions there customer support is great. You just have to follow the agreement. It was hard the first few months but there was no way for me to pay it back without there help.

Now the cons: Your credit does take a hit. But my credit was going to take a hit anyways due to me not making payments because of such a high interest they (Credit Cards) kept adding. I am looking forward to being out of debt by the end of this year. I think there program is great. I would recommend for debt relief but I think it depends on your situation. I hope this help.

Best regards

With things you can hear in the streets the company is a pro-rater with there fees. Word on the street is that they hired people in the company that current has a lawsuit against them for some HR matters (s*x harassment). Why work with a company like this...not good news. All in it for the money and quality is dead. Credit Card will come after you in one way or another especially legally. Best choice is speak with a legal cousel then proceed. We hear things and people should know about a company like this damn boiler room scam....it says a lot when it comes down the type of employees they have on staff

I'm glad i found this site. I spoke to FDR on friday they said they would contact me Monday. After reasearching them i think i'll get a paperroute to pay off my credit cards rather than join them in a contract. As soon as as tom321 finds out who tasc threw out i'll sign up. It seems pretty obvious even to a mear mortal as myself who's posting all the positive feedback. Please stop insulting people's inteligence. How do these worms sleep at night taking advantage of people in their most desperate hour. I felt so bad for the poor disabled gentleman who's living by candlelight and flashlight so stressed out pleading for a refund. I guess they don't have a morals or ethics class at stanford. Their parents must be so proud of their little graduates. Funny how in their homepage newspaper articles section they don't mention the lawsuites brought against them. Shame on you.

Yeah miker123 I'm still looking for that info. It's funny how no one knows who they were...LOL. It's also funny how Freedom Debt Relief is STILL a menber of the TASC. Accredited at that and on the board of directors.

I ended up filing Chapter 7, after trying the debt management approach which screwed my credit up even worse than it was! Anyway, just wanted to tell you that you can get credit after a bankruptcy. You can still buy a house, (2 years after, FHA) and a car. (credit union) Nobody wants to do it, but the calls stop. I couldn't even answer my phone, which sounds like what would happen if you go with the FDR approach! They don't take everything, and it will end the stress. Just like it did for Larry King, Rush Limbaugh, Henry Ford, Donald Trump, and many, many others. Everyone deserves a second chance!

A Prorater receives and controls a clients funds throughout their program. FDR is not a prorater; Clients accounts are in their name and the funds are wholly owned by the client and the client has access o those funds at all times.

OMG!!!! I had overheard that scumbag at a bar bragging to his people that he has this case and it is nothing, but had a great time doing what he was doing with employees on the side. I believe his name is Scott or something like that.

Why would TASC be formed and Andrew sitting on the board to make it
look good....TASC is non-profit using it to for there tax purpose but
there is benefits for a CEO to sit on a non-profit's board (control
indusrty)...Plus a majority of companies that are with TASC has some
bad BBB ratings and complaints

Is Freedom DEBT RELIEF A SCAM?

Been doing the FDR program since Jan '08 w/ $107k in debt. It was slow going at first but they've settled 3 of the 7 accounts and most recently, settled a $42k Bofa loan for 50%.

A lawsuit was brought against me on one of my accounts and although FDR was not able to work out a reduced settlement, they did work out a stipulated award w/ very low payments. I now have to pay the law firm directly but FDR lowered my monthly draft amount to accommodate this.

It does appear that I am on schedule to be completely out of debt within the estimated 36 month timeframe. I would whole heartedly recommend FDR to anyone. It appears that the ones who do have an issue w/ them did not thoroughly read their contract and/or have completely unrealistic expectations.

Please understand that they will use the same way of scaring you like collectors do. The scam is please educate yourself on proraters because even if the client is in control of there funds the fee is the key thing about prorating. By reading some of the comments it looks like employees of Freedom Debt Relief are the ones that posted the comments. Which makes this even more of a scam. Another thing reading the comment on the employee that is having a little side thing with employees is really unprofessional, I bet he must be in management. They should fire and place a mark on people's records that do that type of stuff.
Please educate yourself on these types of debt relief companies and not listen to the lies. Accounts can go legal and they (Freedom Debt Relief) will not protect you. If you don't believe me ask for a copy of the contract and give it to an attorney. WATCH OUT!!!!
California State should have shut this place down a long time ago and other states should follow. Read the lawsuit and not be tricked by them.

Stay away! Stay far,far away. I fell for their concept and signed up as I was desperate. They set up my account,did some minor paperwork and mailed me some form letters to fill out. A few weeks later, after reading
about the complaints and their legal status with the state, I decided to cancel my contract. Not a problem except they refuse to pro-rate for their work and insist on keeping the entire $1,400.00 deposit they call an earned "fee." BEWARE! Better to talk to a lawyer instead!

Greg9, please email us your clientID to show that you are a real FDR client and we will gladly give you a full refund. Here is our email: [email]clientservices@freedomdebtrelief.com[/email]

I would be happy to share the details of your program publicly, if you are indeed a client. If you are not a client, I would request that you (and others) not misrepresent your position or slander FDR or any other companies in this forum. Freedom actually invited in Vikas and the owners of this website to audit our services and they were duly impressed after an onsite visit and plenty of information shared.

FDR works hard for its clients and respectfully requests fair play, like most members of the industry provide, from competitors and members of this posting. Facts that you represented do not match to our services, so I'd appreciate looking into your situation, or those of any one who has represented that FDR does not perform its services exceptionally well.

Thank you in advance. I look forward to hearing from you or any other member of this forum with their client ID.

So tell us again where you guys are licensed to do business?.........

Who is suing you?.............

Tom321, please send us your client ID and we will be happy to look into your program if you are indeed a client. We are available anytime for our clients at:

email address removed per TOS rules, if you wish to give a member your email address please send them a private message. Shazzers

In response to your question, here is the most direct response I can provide (assuming it does not get deleted or modified):
FDR is currently licensed in the states that have debt settlement legislation, and this includes Utah, Colorado, Maine and pending in Delaware, Idaho, Nevada and testifying to pass consumer protecting legislation in Texas, New York, Oregon, California and many others. You should talk to the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws (NCCUSL) who we are working VERY closely with to pass regulations (the Uniform Debt Management Act) that protect consumers.

Here are links if you would like them:
'http://consumerprotection.utah.gov/lists/debt-mgt-services.pdf'
'http://pfr.informe.org/almsonline/almsquery/ShowDetail.aspx?CLIENT=1&BOARD=1030&GP=LD&LN=11185'
'http://consumerprotection.utah.gov/registrations/debtmanagement.html)'
'http://www.ago.state.co.us/UCCC/PDF/debt%20management%20list.pdf'
'http://www.ago.state.co.us/UCCC/debtmgmtmain.cfm.html)'
Links deactivated per TOS rules, Shazzers

Also, the company that was suspended by TASC is a firm named Credit Solutions (whose status is publicly stated on TASC's website), but we cannot opine on the services offered by anyone other than our own company.

Now I sincerely hope that this satisfies you, although I suspect it will not given your motivations, but wish you the best.

Please be considerate of the facts and our business in the future, and once again if you are a client please email me directly anytime.

Best.

Freedom debt relief are huge liars. They told me my debt had been settled right up front, and it would be taken care of in 24 months, they even gave me the number in dollars of what was settled. They told me I would be involved every step of the way, I would be in control of my money, would be informed when decisions were made. I was never told when debt was paid off, they say they will contact creditors and refuse to do so. I received a letter on my last card from a lawyer and called them, they said they would take care of it. I called the law firm myself and explained the situation how I was working with Freedom Debt Relief, the firm said just have them contact us. Freedom takes power of attorney so you can't deal with law firms yourself. Freedom didn't call, got a second letter again oh we will take care of it. The third time I was notified I was going to be sued. Freedom sent me papers after waiting almost the entire time to file an answer, I had to go to courthouse file papers and Freedom said it buys time to negotiate. They then just gave up on everything, we pointed out things they didn't follow through with, they refused to address it, gave me a small refund, and claimed they saved me all this money I added it up, they saved me nothing and now I owe a law firm a lot more than my original debt which was supposedly settled. I also received a letter from IRS last week I owe back taxes for money Freedom supposedly saved me but I was never sent the forms or made aware of this fact. The company passes you off all the time to different people, you never know who you are talking to and only time you get answers from them is to call them and you have to basically cuss them out so they get mad enough to give you answers just to get rid of you. They make tons of promises up front, take all their money upfront, take fees they don't tell you about, etc. When you have questions or concerns they tell you to look at contract which is mainly just a bunch of smiling people because supposedly they are debt free. Also after giving up on my they had the balls to send me a letter congratulating me on being debt free, when I am not debt free they claim they settled all my debt which they did not. I have saved all my emails from them and have caught them in several lies, and when you point it out they try lying more, or say they didn't say that, but you show them proof, you get an email back saying thanks for contacting us, they never address lies they make, or any negative feedback. I would not recommend this site, they make promises they don't keep, you never know what is going on, the only promise this place can keep is they will take your money every month.

Freedom debt relief are huge liars. They told me my debt had been settled right up front, and it would be taken care of in 24 months, they even gave me the number in dollars of what was settled. They told me I would be involved every step of the way, I would be in control of my money, would be informed when decisions were made. I was never told when debt was paid off, they say they will contact creditors and refuse to do so. I received a letter on my last card from a lawyer and called them, they said they would take care of it. I called the law firm myself and explained the situation how I was working with Freedom Debt Relief, the firm said just have them contact us. Freedom takes power of attorney so you can't deal with law firms yourself. Freedom didn't call, got a second letter again oh we will take care of it. The third time I was notified I was going to be sued. Freedom sent me papers after waiting almost the entire time to file an answer, I had to go to courthouse file papers and Freedom said it buys time to negotiate. They then just gave up on everything, we pointed out things they didn't follow through with, they refused to address it, gave me a small refund, and claimed they saved me all this money I added it up, they saved me nothing and now I owe a law firm a lot more than my original debt which was supposedly settled. I also received a letter from IRS last week I owe back taxes for money Freedom supposedly saved me but I was never sent the forms or made aware of this fact. The company passes you off all the time to different people, you never know who you are talking to and only time you get answers from them is to call them and you have to basically cuss them out so they get mad enough to give you answers just to get rid of you. They make tons of promises up front, take all their money upfront, take fees they don't tell you about, etc. When you have questions or concerns they tell you to look at contract which is mainly just a bunch of smiling people because supposedly they are debt free. Also after giving up on my they had the balls to send me a letter congratulating me on being debt free, when I am not debt free they claim they settled all my debt which they did not. I have saved all my emails from them and have caught them in several lies, and when you point it out they try lying more, or say they didn't say that, but you show them proof, you get an email back saying thanks for contacting us, they never address lies they make, or any negative feedback. I would not recommend this site, they make promises they don't keep, you never know what is going on, the only promise this place can keep is they will take your money every month.

Can I have ALL the EXACT states you are licensed in please. List them please.

And we don't want to know who was suspended. WHO WAS KICKED OUT FOR MISCONDUCT?

Why are you operating in CA when you have been sent a cease and desist order?

And last stop wondering about my MOTIVATIONS. It seems NO ONE understands the meaning of fun. That is my reason and ONLY reason for doing this. So I sincerely hope that this answer SATISFIES YOU. But (I) know it won't. Plus it's irrelevant why I do it or anything for that matter. Just give us the facts.

And the ones I looked up are ALL this year within a few months ago. You guys have been around for awhile. Why so late with them?

No one from this forum has responded to a full refund offer with their client ID number as requested to clientservices@ (i will not type the full address, as the moderator does not want that). This confirms to FDR that these misstatements are not from actual clients, but from participants misrepresenting themselves with ulterior motives. I do hope that this message gets retained within the post.

The individual who claims it is 'fun' to slander us, we cannot comment on that other than to take it at face value.

The states that have passed debt settlement laws passed them very recently (Colorado in 2008, Utah in 2009, Maine in 2008... there was no licensing procedure before those dates). We are actively participating with NCCUSL in 15 states to pass additional consumer protection laws this year. When those laws pass, we will get licensed. We were the first to be licensed in Utah, one of the first three in Colorado and Maine and will be at the front of the line when additional states pass legislation. We are also proactive in getting audited and certified by real third party verification firms, including TASC, BDI, and IAPDA (and welcome any person to come in anytime and review our operation or suggest ways to improve or help our clients).

We, as a company, remain committed to helping real people with real financial problems and strive for excellence. We remain steadfast in our motivations and are proud of the work that we do. I am dissapointed that this forum exists and at the malice intended, but again we can only do the best we do every day.

Best.

It has come to the BBB's attention that Freedom Debt Relief has continued to operate despite a desist and refrain order issued through the Department of Corporation on May 29, 2008.

Government Actions!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

On May 29, 2008 The California Corporations Commissioner filed a desist and refrain order against Andrew Housser Founder and CO-CEO of Freedom Financial Network, LLC, and Bradford Stroh Founder and CO-CEO of Freedom Financial Network "FFN", LLC, and it's affiliated entities, Freedom Financial Network, LLC, Freedom Debt Relief, Inc.; Freedom Debt Relief, LLC; FDR; Alivio Holdings, LLC; Bills.com, Inc.;Bills.com, LLC; Bills.com; Freedom Tax Relief, LLC; Alivio Mortgage, LLC for being in violation of sections 12200, 22104, 22153 and 22154 of the Financial Code.

Without any admission of wrongdoing the complaint alleges that FFN engaged in the business as a bill payer or prorater as defined in the Check Sellers, Bill payers and Proraters Law, California Financial Code section 12200 without a license
BBB Definition: license - A permit or accreditation required by the State, Province, County or Municipality where a company is located indicating competence or professional certification that allows the company to provide products or services related to their particular field or industry.
from the Commissioner and in violation of that law including overcharging consumers in violation of Financial Code sections 12314 and 12314.1. The order states that Alivio Mortgage, LLC a Delaware limited liability company that is affiliated with both Freedom Debt Relief and Freedom Financial Network failed to get approval from the Department of Corporations to move their place of business which is in violation of Financial Code section 22153. It is also alleged that Alivio Mortgage, LLC failed to meet the statutory net worth requirement which is in violation of Financial Code section 22104.
Alivio Mortgage, LLC, co-located with the other businesses of Housser and Stroh conducted business at a place in which business other than making loans is engaged in without either written notification to and the authorization of the Department of Corporations which is violation of Financial Code section 22104.

It was ordered pursuant to Financial Code section 12103 that Andrew Housser and Bradford Stroh, and their affiliated entities, FFN to desist and refrain from engaging in business as a bill payer and prorater unless and until they are licensed or exempt and from violating Financial Code section 12314 and 12314.1. It is also ordered pursuant to Financial Code section 22712, that Alivio Mortgage, LLC and any and all officers, directors, employees , independent contractors, agents, and affiliates operating on it's behalf to desist and refrain from the following: 1) changing locations without notification to and the approval of the Commissioner: 2) failing to maintain minimum net worth of 25,000: 3) conducting business at a place in which other than making loans is engaged in without either written notification to and the authorization of the department; 4) using advertising without prior approval from the commissioner.

On October 30, 2008 the San Mateo County District Attorney's office along with the California Corporations Commissioner filed a complaint against Freedom Debt Relief, LLC, Freedom Debt Relief, Inc., Freedom Financial Network "FFN", LLC, Freedom Mortgage, Alivio Mortgage, LLC, Alivio Holdings, LLC, Bills.com, Freedom Tax Relief, LLC , Andrew Housser and Brad Stroh. The complaint states that since at least 2003 and continuing thereafter, the defendants and their affiliates have offered financial services to consumers including debt negotiation and debt reduction services.

Without any admission of wrongdoing the complaint alleges the defendants of making untrue or misleading statements and omission of material facts (Business & Profession code section 17500), unfair competition by all defendants (Business and Professions code sections 17200 and 17203), unlicensed activities ( Financial Code Section 12200) fee overcharges and unauthorized charges ( Financial Code Section 12314 and 12314.1).

The complaint also states that in November of 2007 the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation's Division of Banking issued an order to Freedom Debt Relief and FFN to immediately cease and desist their unlicensed debt management plan activities in their state and ordered them to refund all fees received relating to all debt management plans currently being serviced.

In 2008 the state of Colorado contacted defendants about their failure to comply with the Colorado Debt Management Services Act. The complaint states the defendants are unlicensed and did not file to register in the time frame required by Colorado law. It is also alleged in the complaint that defendants violated the following legal requirements;
Agreement requirements (neither FDR's current or former agreements comply), Disclosure requirement, Advertising requirements and excessive upfront fees.

The case is currently pending.

THIS ISN'T SLANDER GENIUS. IT'S GOOD OLD FASHION FACTS. WHY DON'T YOU COMMENT ON ALL OF THIS? WHO WAS KICKED OUT FOR MISCONDUCT? We still don't have an answer.

BBB processed a total of 185 complaints about Freedom Debt Relief in the last 36 months, our standard reporting period. Of the total of 185 complaints closed in 36 months, 80 were closed in the last year.
These complaints concerned :
6 regarding Advertising Issues
BBB Definition:

Advertising Issues - Claims alleging print or electronic media advertised claims or practices misrepresent the service or product offer.


1 - Advertisement did not disclose all conditions required to take advantage of an offer
3 - Advertisement misrepresented a service
1 - False or unsubstantiated claims in advertisement
1 - None of the Above - Advertising Complaint Issue
22 regarding Billing or Collection Issues
BBB Definition:

Billing or Collection Issues - Claim alleging billing errors, unauthorized charges, or questionable collection practices.


2 - Failure to provide itemized billing as requested
5 - Improper collection practices
13 - None of the Above - Credit, Billing or Collection Complaint Issue
2 - Unauthorized bank debits
45 regarding Contract Issues
BBB Definition:

Contract Issues - Claim of alleged failure to honor contract or agreement, work performed without authorization, or invalid contract.


21 - Failure to honor a contract or agreement
2 - Invalid or false contract
18 - None of the Above - Contract Complaint Issue
2 - Unauthorized changes to the contract or agreement
2 - Work performed outside the terms of the contract or agreement
32 regarding Customer Service Issues
BBB Definition:

Service Issues - Claims of alleged delay in completing service, failure to provide promised service, inferior quality of provided service, or damaged merchandise as a result of delivery service.
BBB Definition:

Customer Service Issues - Claims alleging unsatisfactory customer service, including personnel's failure to provide assistance in a timely manner, failure to address or respond to customer dissatisfaction, unavailability for customer support, and/or inappropriate behavior or attitude exhibited by company staff.


21 - Failure to provide promised assistance or support for products or services
5 - Failure to respond to phone calls or written requests for assistance or support
2 - Inappropriate behavior by customer service personnel
4 - None of the Above - Customer Service Complaint Issue
1 regarding Delivery Issues
BBB Definition:

Delivery Issues - Claims alleging delayed delivery of ordered merchandise.


1 - Non-delivery of services
8 regarding Guarantee or Warranty Issues
BBB Definition:

Guarantee or Warranty Issues - Claims alleging failure to honor the terms regarding guarantees or warranties.


6 - Failure to honor money-back guarantees
1 - Failure to honor service under the terms of warranties
1 - Failure to provide promised written warranty or guarantee
1 regarding Product Issues
BBB Definition:

Product Issues - Claim alleging a product does not meet the expectations of the complainant, including defective merchandise.


1 - None of the Above - Product Quality Complaint Issue
20 regarding Refund or Exchange Issues
BBB Definition:

Refund or Exchange Issues - Claim of alleged failure to honor company policy or verbal commitment to provide refunds, exchanges, or credit for products or services.


6 - Failure to honor promised refunds, exchanges, or credit
2 - Failure to honor refund, exchange or credit policies
12 - None of the Above - Refund or Exchange Complaint Issue
22 regarding Sales Practice Issues
BBB Definition:

Sales Practice Issues - Claims of alleged sales presentations made in person or by telephone that contain misrepresentations of the product or service, high pressure sales practices, failure to disclose key conditions of the offer, and verbal representations not consistent with written contractual terms or agreements.


10 - None of the Above - Sales Complaint Issue
2 - Sales presentation misrepresented the product
6 - Sales presentation misrepresented the service
1 - Sales presentation not consistent with advertisement
2 - Sales presentation used dishonest sales practices
1 - Sales presentation used high pressure methods
28 regarding Service Issues
BBB Definition:

Service Issues - Claims of alleged delay in completing service, failure to provide promised service, inferior quality of provided service, or damaged merchandise as a result of delivery service.


2 - Delayed completion of service
7 - Failure to honor service estimate or agreement
9 - Improper or inferior service
10 - None of the Above - Service Complaint Issue

These complaints were closed as:
176 Resolved
BBB Definition:

Resolved - The company resolved the complaint issues.


99 - Company resolved
BBB Definition:

resolved - The company resolved the complaint issues.
the complaint issues. The consumer acknowledged acceptance to BBB.
77 - Company addressed the complaint issues. The consumer failed to acknowledge acceptance to BBB.
9 Administratively Closed
BBB Definition:

Administratively Closed - BBB determined that the complaint could not be satisfactorily settled using standard methods of voluntary dispute resolution


9 - BBB determined that despite the company's effort to address complaint issues, the consumer remained dissatisfied.

THIS IS FREEDOM DEBT RELIEF CORRECT? YOU MUST BE DOING SOMETHING WRONG. A lot of complaints there hoss.

Why are you still operating in CA when you were told to stop?

I was just as skeptical as you all but I did go forth and trust FDR with settling my debt. I had about 41k (13cc) so far 10 have been settled in the amount of 17k. I just have 3cc with balance of 9k and hope to be paid of soon. I have been in the program
2 1/2 yrs and very pleased with the service.

Did Any one that has been already helped by Freedom Debt relief have to go to court and work on on your own behalf???

The debt settlement industry is going to have major changes (reform) in the coming months. CCCS companies been reformed, now it's going to happen to debt settlement. Essentially, you can say goodbye to about 90% of the existing debt settlement companies. FDR employees and all other debt settlement employees better start looking at other opportunities... it's just a matter of time.

Power of Attorney needs notarization for all banking transactions so know that there are some legal aspects to not having a notarization placed on that an it needs to have original copies for POA. Ask yourself his why would you want a company to hold POA on your bank account.
As for Freedom Deebt Relief and how they sell you against relying on the BBB not being a reliable source. Let us put it this way they are considered a mid-size company not large like GM. They try to compare themselves to large cap companies that are on the stock exchange.
TASC look at who, how, an why it was created so companies like Freedom can make it sound excellent to be on TASC. Follow the $$$ and how it was formed and who's idea it was, dig deep enough you will find info on that as well.
Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) if you look at that and ask aroundD&B is like a credit check on a company. It is like pulling up your FICO score for a company and if they have an liens posted against the company. Follow the $$$ and you can find out mistakes and why thy have placed themselves into this situation.
Please review the BBB and you will understand the company's current situation. If you plan on signing up with them let an attorney review everything and sure that they will tell you NO.
D&B is a credit report not a rating system please do a google search on what D&B is about and what they really do. It only tells you if they are able to apply for financing from a bank to get a loan--nothing more.

Warning don't fall for any of this BS!!!!

FDR has tens of thousands of clients and a hundred or so complaints. FDR's BBB complaint ration is less than that of the California Bar Association along with many top financial institutions. Frequently, BBB complaints are the result of not understanding how the FDR program works. Please contact customer service to further discuss this issue.

Pretty sure we understand how it works. We send FDR all of our money and they buy a yacht and a house in the Cayman's and we get sued, judgements and crappy credit for 7.5 years or longer. Does that about sum it up dips@!t?

Do not make the same mistake is terrible company, they
take your money, but you get nothing in return.
Scam May 28, 2009

I was promised a full refund from client services as a result of my complaint. I will post the result of that promise once it is either realized or ignored.


greg

Follow the $$$ look at TASC the "non-profit" how it was formed and who are "Chartered Members" (creators of TAS). Great tax deduction for them and try to bring regulation to the settlement industry, so they say. Look at the board members and which companies they work for will explain everything. Read your contract with them and you will understand that they are screwing with people's lives. Damn "car sales" tactics these guys are on some kind of comission structure to get that signature on that line. EDUCATION!!!