If you’re in need of debt relief, it’s important to be on the lookout for scams. One critical red flag to look for is a debt relief company that requires you to pay a hefty upfront fee to settle your debt. It’s illegal for debt relief companies that sell services via telephone to charge you an upfront debt settlement fee. Here are some other potential warnings signs: You’re provided with a “guarantee” that your debts will be forgiven by your creditor. The company won’t give you information about its fees or services in writing or what you’re being told sounds like it’s too good to be true. When you do your homework (e.g., checking out what your state attorney general or consumer protection agency says about the provider, reviewing the company’s stats with the Better Business Bureau), you find a significant history of issues or complaints. You’re advised to no longer communicate with your creditors.