Pacific Debt Relief recognized for its commitment to ethical, client-first service

SAN DIEGO, CA / ACCESS Newswire / August 4, 2026 / Better Business Bureau has named Pacific Debt Relief as a finalist for the 2026 BBB Torch Awards for Ethics, recognizing businesses that exemplify integrity, trust, and ethical leadership in the marketplace.

The BBB Torch Awards for Ethics program celebrates organizations that demonstrate an unwavering commitment to doing the right thing for their customers, employees, and communities. Being named a finalist is a testament to the values that have guided Pacific Debt Relief since it was founded in 2002.

"We didn't apply for this. We were nominated, and that alone means the world to us," said Sierra Izzard, CEO of Pacific Debt Relief. "Every day, our team shows up for people who are going through a really hard time. Being named a finalist tells us that work is being seen and felt by the people we serve."

Debt settlement has long struggled with a credibility gap. Consumers researching their options often encounter companies that overpromise, pressure people into signing up, or treat them like a transaction instead of a person going through a hard time. Pacific Debt Relief points to something less easily measured than its more than $500 million in consumer debt settled since 2002 as the real reason for the nomination: how it treats people who are struggling.

Every client is paired with a dedicated Client Success team that walks them through the debt settlement process step by step, from enrollment through final settlement. In client video testimonials published on pacificdebt.com, clients often describe a similar experience: being treated with patience and respect at a moment when many said they felt embarrassed or afraid to ask for help. Pacific Debt Relief maintains an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and strong client ratings across Trustpilot, Google, and other independent review platforms.

The BBB Torch Awards for Ethics represent one of the highest honors bestowed by BBB and are designed to spotlight businesses that consistently uphold the principles of trust and ethical conduct. Finalists are selected by an independent panel of volunteer community leaders using criteria established by the International Association of Better Business Bureaus.

Each finalist completed a comprehensive evaluation demonstrating a commitment to ethics and trust across four key areas: Character, Culture, Customers, and Community. These organizations showcased the integrity of their leadership, the authenticity of their workplace culture, the value they place on customer relationships, and the positive impact they make in the communities they serve.

"We're thrilled to give this year's finalists the recognition they've achieved. These business owners remind us that trust is earned through daily actions, not just words. They're showing the rest of the marketplace that running an ethical business isn't just the right thing to do, it's the best way to build a lasting company," said Vicky Lockett, Associate Vice President of Stakeholder Engagement.

One winner from each category will be announced at the signature event on Wednesday, September 9 at La Jolla Marriott. For a complete list of this year's BBB Torch Awards for Ethics Finalists, visit torchawards.bbbcommunity.org.

About Pacific Debt Relief
Since 2002, Pacific Debt Relief has helped people struggling with credit card and other unsecured loans find a path to resolving their debt, without taking out another loan. Headquartered in San Diego, California, the company is BBB A+ rated and has settled more than $500 million in consumer debt. Pacific Debt Relief's certified debt specialists, negotiators, and Client Success team work with clients throughout their program to provide support, transparency, and real answers. Individual results may vary. To learn more or request a free consultation, visit pacificdebt.com.

About BBB Mountain West & Pacific Southwest
Better Business Bureau (BBB) has empowered people to find businesses, brands, and charities they can trust for more than 110 years. In 2024, people turned to BBB.org more than 220 million times for BBB Business Profiles on 5.5 million businesses, and 725,000 times for BBB charity reports on 12,000 local and national charities. The International Association of Better Business Bureaus is the umbrella organization for the local, independent BBBs in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Incorporated locally in 1938, BBB Pacific Southwest, Central & Inland California serves Greater Arizona and Southern, Central and Inland California, providing critical tools to ignite success including mentorship, online products, event and meeting spaces. Our objective expertise educates the community on ethical behavior in the marketplace and how businesses can build trust.

Media Contact Company: Pacific Debt Relief, Contact: Mike Nittoli, Marketing Director, Email: mikenittoli@pacificdebt.com, Website: https://www.pacificdebt.com

Pacific Debt Relief is recognized as a 2026 San Diego County BBB Torch Awards for Ethics Finalist by the Better Business Bureau. This recognition reflects Pacific Debt Relief's commitment to ethical business practices and does not constitute an endorsement of any specific debt relief outcome. Individual results may vary. Not all clients complete our program. Estimates are based on prior results and will vary depending on individual circumstances. We do not guarantee that debts will be resolved for a specific amount or within a specific period of time. Pacific Debt Relief is a debt settlement company and does not provide credit repair services. Please read and understand all program materials before enrollment. Pacific Debt, Inc. NMLS #1250953. C.P.D. Reg. No. T.S. 12-03825.

SOURCE: Pacific Debt Relief