If someone calls out of the blue and says they can lower your credit card interest rate for a fee, the FTC says slow down. Consumers under pressure may hear the word relief and miss the sales pitch underneath it.
What the real risk looks like
Some of these offers collect fees, account information, or both without changing the underlying debt. That can leave the consumer with the same high-rate balance, less cash on hand, and sometimes more confusion about which company has their account details.
Better ways to respond
- Contact your card issuer directly using the number on the back of the card.
- Be suspicious of anyone asking for a fee before real results.
- Read every agreement and look for promises that sound guaranteed.
- Keep a written log if a caller claims to be tied to your bank or lender.
The FTC’s April 22, 2026 warning is useful because it separates legitimate rate discussions from outside callers who profit from urgency and confusion.
Source: FTC Consumer Alert, April 22, 2026
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