Many credit counseling organizations provide valuable advice, education and assistance, but consumers need to be aware of the “quick fixes” offered by some organizations. Consumers can help protect themselves from deceptive credit counseling practices by knowing how to choose a credit counselor. If we are having a difficult time of repaying our debts, a counseling agency may be able to work out a Debt Management Plan for us. Credit counseling agencies negotiate special programs with creditors that are not available to the general public.
These are the important guidelines for choosing credit counseling agencies:
• A certified counselor will do your budget, including your expenses and income.
• They will figure out the total amount of debt you owe and arrive at a figure you can pay each month toward that debt while satisfying your creditors’ requirements.
• Once all parties agree on the monthly amount required to liquidate your debts, you send that amount to the counseling agency each month. They distribute the funds to your creditors, who have agreed to accept a lower interest rate (and perhaps a lower monthly payment). Click to continue »