Maybe you have more than your fair share of credit card debt and have finally made the decision to get out of debt. Congratulations! You might be wondering what your next step is. That’s when consumer credit counseling comes into the picture.
You can get debt support with consumer credit counseling.
Consumer Credit Counseling Near Me
Contrary to popular belief, you do not have to step into a brick and mortar financial institution in order to consolidate debt. In fact, you can speak with certified credit counselors in the convenience of your own home. The nonprofit financial organization American Consumer Credit Counseling (ACCC) offers all that and more with just a phone call!
Debt Consolidation Through ACCC
“Debt consolidation” is a wide umbrella term. There are many companies that offer either debt settlement or consolidate your existing unsecured personal debt under a new loan. Both of those options can be very risky. However, ACCC offers a proven debt consolidation program that enables you to meet your obligation to creditors without borrowing more money.
- ACCC negotiates with your creditors to reduce interest rates and any outstanding fees. This can reduce your monthly payment and the time it takes to pay off your debts.
- You make one convenient payment to ACCC each month and then they pay each of your creditors on your behalf.
- ACCC provides you with credit counseling and financial education. Strengthening your credit management skills can help you stay on track toward a future free of excessive debt.
ACCC has been dedicated to improving the financial lives of people all over the country since 1991. The Better Business Bureau gave them an A+ grade.
What to Look for in a Credit Counseling Agency
A good credit counseling agency should possess the following attributes:
- A legitimate debt relief agency is open and honest. It should be willing to provide you a clear, detailed description of its product and services. If the agency does not answer your questions or its answers are not satisfactory, go elsewhere.
- A reputable consolidated credit counseling agency will give you truthful, useful advice on how to manage your money and use credit wisely. The agency will also help you establish a written budget and offer educational materials and financial workshops.
- The fees charged by a debt consolidation company should be reasonable, meaning a maximum of $50/month for a debt management program (fees vary by state). Free ongoing education on how to manage your finances should be available and accessible – even if you decide against entering a debt management program.
- The agency should be active for at least seven years and be non-profit. The advantage of non-profit debt consolidation companies is that they can offer their services for free or low-cost. They are funded in part by contributions from creditors and grants.
If you’re struggling to pay off debt, ACCC can help. Schedule a free credit counseling session with us today.
