What do debt relief companies actually do with your monthly payments?

Debt relief companies don't simply pass your monthly payment along to creditors — at least not initially, anyway. Skaman306/Getty Images Household and credit card debt levels are higher than ever right now, and, in turn, millions of Americans are carrying credit card balances they can't pay down. And, the burden is only growing as the interest charges compound at high rates month after month, so many are turning to debt relief companies for help. …