Why do free debt management companies perform so badly?
Because these companies are 100% funded by the credit industry (i.e. the companies you owe money to) there is an obvious conflict of interest. Free debt management firms are focussed on getting the best deal for your creditors, not you. They often set themselves up as charities to appear to be on the consumer’s side and enjoy the tax advantages this brings. There is also no upper limit on the salaries paid out to employees.