Do you feel consumed by your growing mound of consumer debt? Have you been tempted to call the toll-free numbers on a late-night television advertisement for a debt negotiation program? Although debt negotiation and debt settlement may be beneficial choices for a small group of consumers whose financial situations are unique, most personal finance experts recommend that consumers attempt to undertake the debt negotiation process on their own behalf, rather than incurring the thousands of dollars in service charges and fees that debt negotiation firms can impose. Furthermore, recent research on the industry has shown that few consumers emerge from the process with their credit ratings intact and their debts cancelled, as promised. In fact, a staggering number of the clients who signed up with debt negotiation firms go on to file for bankruptcy later. In light of these considerations, it is advisable to begin the process of trying to settle your debts on your own. If you need additional help, connect with a counselor at a non-profit credit advocacy group.