If you have obtained too much debt or experiencing financial difficulties, you may want to look into credit counseling.
What Do Credit Counselors Do?
Credit counseling agencies work with you to solve your financial problems. These organizations offer services through local offices, the internet, or via phone.
Credit counselors will discuss your financial situation with you, and help you develop a personalized plan to solve your money problems. Counselors typically negotiate lower payments with your creditors, and then make payments using money you send them each month.
How To Find A Credit Counseling Agency Near You
The National Foundation for Credit Counseling allows you to search for counselors near you via their websites.
Questions You Should Ask Credit Counselors
Ask these questions when seeking a debt counselor:
- What are your fees?
Ask what fees you will be charged. Specifically, ask about any set up fees. - How will the debt plan work?
Ask for details on how the debt management plan will work. Which debts can be included in the plan and will you receive balance updates? - Ask for a contract.
All verbal promises should be in writing before you pay any money. - Are you accredited or certified?
Legitimate credit counseling firms are affiliated with either the National Foundation for Credit Counseling or the Association of Independent Consumer Credit Counseling Agencies. - Check if any complaints have been filed.
Check with the Better Business Bureau to see if any complaints have been filed against the counseling service.