Consumers have been making real progress this year in reducing their overall credit card debt balances. It seems they have gotten the message that it is a huge drain and stress on personal finances to be carrying and paying for large amounts of debt each month. The great recession has been a real wake up call to many. The word is out.

So let’s look at the numbers.

According to data released by the Federal Reserve, consumers in the U.S reduced their personal debt for the seventh straight month in August of this year. And as for credit card debt in particular, it has dropped for the 11th straight month. This is a new record. Consumers have been hit hard by the weak economy and have made great efforts to improve their financial standings and financial positions. The paying down of credit card debt is key towards these efforts.

But what about consumers who are unable to make a dent in their credit card debt? Perhaps they are unemployed or they have been hit hard by the raising of the minimum payments due each month from 2% of the total balance to 5% of the total balance. What options do these consumers have? And who do they turn to for help when seeking debt relief?

Actually, there are many options for consumers these days in terms of debt relief programs. Most people have heard of such programs as debt consolidation, home equity loans, even bankruptcy, but the newest and most effective debt relief program is known as Debt Settlement. This program is able to achieve spectacular results in terms of overall debt reduction. With a debt settlement program, consumers can expect to have their credit card debt reduced and eliminated by 50% to 75% – without the need for filing bankruptcy.

True debt relief is possible. Consumers need only do their research, read and study as much as possible, and then make an informed decision.