July 21, 2025

What Happens to Credit Card Interest During Debt Settlement?

interest during debt settlement, how interest works in settlement, credit card interest explained

Credit card debt can feel like a runaway train—especially when high interest rates are involved. If you’ve ever looked at your credit card statement and wondered why your balance keeps growing even when you’re not spending, you’re not alone. For many people, this cycle becomes overwhelming, which is why debt settlement is such a powerful tool.

But one common question we hear at Mediator Debt Solutions is:
“What happens to credit card interest during debt settlement?”

Let’s break it down in clear, everyday terms so you know exactly what to expect—and how to take action.

How Credit Card Interest Works (And Why It Hurts)

Credit card companies charge interest on any balance you carry from month to month. With rates often exceeding 20% APR, even small debts can balloon over time. If you’re unable to pay more than the minimum payment, most of what you pay may go toward interest—not your actual balance.

This is what makes getting out of credit card debt so difficult. Even if you stop spending, interest keeps piling up daily, making it feel impossible to get ahead.

So, What Happens to That Interest During Settlement?

Once you enter a debt settlement program, a few important things happen:

  • You stop paying the creditor directly and begin building funds to offer a settlement.
  • Your account may still technically accrue interest and late fees—but here’s the key:
  • Most settlements include interest and fees in the negotiated total.

Let’s say you owe $10,000, which includes $2,000 in interest. Your settlement team may negotiate with the creditor to settle the full debt for $5,000–$6,000. That lump sum typically includes both principal and interest—so you’re not paying interest on top of the settlement amount. It’s rolled into one reduced figure.

What Changes After the Settlement?

Once an agreement is reached and paid:

  • The account is closed by the creditor.
  • No further interest is charged.
  • You’ve satisfied your obligation, even though you paid less than originally owed.

This is a huge relief for people who have spent years watching their balances grow despite regular payments.

Why Professional Help Matters

Debt settlement can be a life-changing strategy—but only if done properly and legally. Trying to settle on your own can lead to mistakes, like:

  • Verbal promises that aren’t honored,
  • Settling for more than you should,
  • Or having your account continue to rack up interest or go into collections.

At Mediator Debt Solutions, we handle negotiations for you and make sure:

✅ You’re not overpaying,
✅ Interest is included in the deal,
✅ And you’re protected from further harassment or penalties.

Don’t Let Interest Bury You

When it comes to debt, the numbers can feel hopeless. But debt settlement changes the math. It’s a legal and realistic way to reduce your overall balance, stop the interest spiral, and take back control of your financial future.

If you’ve been wondering how to deal with your credit card debt—or if you feel like the interest is swallowing you whole—Mediator Debt Solutions is here to help. We’ll walk you through the process, negotiate on your behalf, and help you move toward a debt-free life—starting now.