Who We Are
The mission of the American Association for Debt Resolution (AADR) is to educate consumers and policymakers about debt resolution and its benefits, hold debt resolution companies to the highest industry standards, and protect and expand access to accredited debt resolution services nationwide.
We Are the Leading Association of Professional Debt Settlement Companies
Consumer Rights
We support consumers struggling with overwhelming unsecured debt problems.
Best Practices
We define, promote, and enforce best practices and high standards for the debt settlement industry.
Consumer-Centric Policies
We advocate for legislative and regulatory environments that protect consumers’ access to quality options.
AADR accredited member companies agree to abide by a strict Code of Conduct and are required to follow stringent regulatory guidelines for operation. In addition, all AADR members operate on a “No Advance Fee Model” and never charge a fee for services until a consumer’s debt has been successfully negotiated.
In return for their services, AADR-Certified Consumer Credit Advocates are paid a fee by the consumer (never by the creditor) but ONLY WHEN THE DEBT IS RESOLVED. And to avoid any hint of impropriety, AADR members never handle, manage, or otherwise control their clients’ funds.
Finally, all AADR members agree to abide by a strict Code of Conduct, ensuring they operate with the highest level of compliance, transparency and integrity.
A History of the American Association for Debt Resolution
The AADR was formed in April 2011 by a group of industry-leading companies to advance the goal of an industry in full compliance with the regulatory initiatives of the Federal Trade Commission. The AADR founders realized that the former trade association, The Association of Settlement Companies (TASC), did not fully represent the wave of change that has swept through the industry, and that the American public deserved a clearer, more forward-looking approach to consumer credit advocacy. TASC no longer exists. We are now the American Association for Debt Resolution (AADR). We have a new vision and a new mission that focuses on the people we serve.
Here are a few more ways in which we are different:
Advocacy
The American Association for Debt Resolution is the only Credit Advocacy Association that fights for the rights of consumers, burdened by unmanageable debt, who wish to resolve their obligations through debt settlement.
Compliance
All AADR Members and Accredited Members must adhere to a strict Code of Conduct and agree to abide by all State and Federal laws and regulations relating to debt adjustment and debt settlement services.
Fairness
We fight for the fair treatment of consumers by their creditors, and lobby on behalf of the debt settlement industry to ensure debt settlement services are available to consumers at a fair and reasonable rate. Our members only accept a fee for their services AFTER they have successfully resolved a debt.
Trust
The American Association for Debt Resolution exists to ensure debt settlement services remain both available and affordable to consumers. Consumers can now choose a debt settlement service provider with confidence, knowing they carry the Seal of Approval from the AADR.
Transparency
Our members agree to adhere to all Federal Trade Commission consumer protection guidelines and agree to be audited for compliance through our anonymous “Secret Shopper” program. By choosing an AADR member as your debt settlement provider, you can rest assured you are selecting a reputable provider who will never charge a fee until you get results.
Leadership
Join the leading consumer credit advocacy association representing the debt settlement industry and demonstrate your leadership by becoming an AADR member company today.
Become a member
Join the American Association for Debt Resolution today and join a select group of leading consumer credit advocates who are committed to the highest ethical standards of operation in the debt settlement industry. Here are just a few of the benefits you will receive as a member of the AADR.
- A detailed, searchable company listing on the AADR Website
- Invitations to the member only workshops
- Discounts to all AADR hosted conferences
- Monthly member conference calls
- State Law Guide provided by Greenspoon Marder
- Multi-State daily legislative updates
- Rights to use the AADR Seal on your website and marketing collateral