Debt Relief Programs
If you’re facing financial pressure from debt in Arkansas, you’re not alone. From Little Rock and Fayetteville to Fort Smith, Jonesboro, and smaller towns across the Natural State, many Arkansans are managing credit card debt, medical bills, and student loan obligations. At APFSC, we provide professional, non-profit debt relief and credit counseling services to help you reduce your debt and build a path toward financial freedom.
The Growing Debt Problem in Arkansas
Understanding Debt in Arkansas
Arkansas has one of the lowest costs of living in the country, but many households still face economic challenges due to lower average incomes, rising healthcare costs, and lack of access to financial education. The average credit card debt per borrower in Arkansas is over $5,500, while the average student loan debt has exceeded $31,000. Roughly 11.6% of residents carry student loan balances, and many struggle with repayment.
When you’re relying on credit cards to fill income gaps or manage medical expenses, interest builds quickly. Without a structured plan, debt can feel impossible to escape—but that’s where APFSC comes in.

How APFSC Helps Arkansas Residents Pay Off Debt
We begin with a free consultation where one of our certified credit counselors will review your income, expenses, and total unsecured debt. If you qualify, we’ll recommend a custom Debt Management Plan (DMP) to help consolidate your debt into one easy monthly payment—usually with reduced interest rates and waived fees.
With our DMP, you’ll receive:
A single, affordable monthly payment
- Lower interest rates negotiated with your creditors
- Elimination of late fees and reduced stress
- A debt payoff timeline of 3 to 5 years
- Access to budgeting tools and long-term financial education
This is not a loan. It’s a structured plan designed to help you pay off what you owe—without taking on new debt.
Why Arkansans Fall Into Debt
- High out-of-pocket medical expenses
- Credit card usage to cover basic necessities
- Job loss or reduced hours in service and manufacturing industries
- Student loan repayment challenges
- Limited savings for emergencies or inflation spikes
How a Debt Management Plan Works
A Debt Management Plan is a safe and effective way to repay unsecured debts, such as credit cards, medical bills, and personal loans. Instead of juggling multiple payments, you’ll make one monthly payment to APFSC, and we’ll pay your creditors directly.
Why a DMP works:
- Reduced interest rates and better terms
- Simplified repayment structure
- Protection from collections and legal action
- Long-term credit improvement through on-time payments
- Expert support from start to finish
Most clients complete their plan in 3 to 5 years, depending on their total debt and monthly budget.
Talk to a HUD-certified housing counselor to get help with the housing challenges you’re facing.
Talk to a HUD-certified housing counselor to get help with the housing challenges you’re facing.
FAQ
Will a Debt Management Plan hurt my credit score?
Initially, it might dip slightly, but most clients see improvement over time as they make consistent on-time payments.
How long does the program take?
Most people complete their plan in 3 to 5 years, depending on how much they owe.
Can I still use my credit cards?
Once enrolled in a DMP, those accounts are typically closed to help you stay on track.
Is my information kept confidential?
Yes. All consultations and services are private and secure.