Yes, it will. A debt settlement program can negatively affect your credit score initially. After you make the payment, your account balance will be brought to zero. But your credit report will show that the debt was settled for a sum that was less than the total amount due.
The fact that you have settled your debt can remain on your credit report for seven years.
However, if you make regular payments in the subsequent months and years for your other debts, your score will improve. Remember, it’s far better to settle a debt than not pay at all.
