Debt sale price range estimator

Last updated: October 15, 2026

Short answer: This estimator gives a rough range of what debt buyers have historically paid, in cents per dollar of face value, based on public benchmarks. The FTC's 2013 study found an average of 4.0 cents, 7.9 cents for debt under three years old and 2.2 cents for 6 to 15 years. The result is an estimate, not an offer.

What this does: gives a rough, public-benchmark range of what buyers have historically paid, in cents per dollar of face value. It is an estimate, not an offer. Real prices depend on data quality, state mix, prior placements and the market.

For every benchmark with its source and verification status, see the Debt Pricing Guide 2026.

Where do these numbers come from?

Age bands come from the FTC's 2013 study (FTC report): 4.0¢ overall average, 7.9¢ under 3 years, 2.2¢ for 6–15 years, about 0¢ over 15. The FTC did not publish a single 3–6-year figure; we show the range between its neighboring bands.
Debt-type ranges come from secondary industry sources (Debexpert), marked unverified. The FTC study confirms the direction: mortgage above credit card, and medical and utility below.
FTC data is from 2013. Today's market may differ.

What else do sellers ask?

How much does a debt buyer pay per dollar?

The FTC's 2013 study of the largest debt buyers found an average of 4.0 cents per dollar of face value. Newer debt sold for more (7.9 cents under three years) and older debt for less (2.2 cents at 6–15 years).

Information only, not legal, tax or accounting advice. Price figures are third-party estimates, not offers. Last reviewed: October 2026.