Credit counseling free#

In the same way, people’s challenges differ. Others are working toward something like buying a home and know they need to make changes to achieve their financial goals. Some people who visit a credit counselor are focused on solving a specific problem, such as paying off a student loan or large credit card debt. When the credit counselor has the big picture about your income and expenses, they’ll ask about your goals and challenges. For example, they’ll ask about your income, debts, and living expenses.

Credit counseling free#

During your free session, your credit counselor will gather some basic information from you.

You may be able to complete your credit counseling session over the phone, online, or in person. Your options for completing credit counseling will depend on the agency you choose to work with. They may also include lists of organizations that have been sued or press releases about legal action taken against specific companies. These agencies’ websites often provide information about what to watch out for when you’re seeking debt relief. You can also find information about which providers are reputable by checking with a consumer protection agency like the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your state attorney general. The Better Business Bureau is another good source of information about debt counseling organizations and other providers you may be considering. Starting with a nonprofit credit counseling agency certified by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) can put you on the right path. Unfortunately, that can be an expensive mistake. When you’re under pressure it’s easy to be misled by promises of quick relief or drastically reduced debt. Some for-profit companies, such as debt settlement providers, may make promises they can’t keep. But the debt solutions industry also has more than its share of bad actors. There are many great programs created to help people hoping to regain control of their finances. When you’re looking for help managing money, it’s important to do your homework about the organization you choose to work with. Working With a Nonprofit Credit Counseling Agency Credit counseling agencies also offer more general money management assistance, such as financial education materials and budgeting help. A nonprofit credit counseling agency will offer a 45-60 minute free session to help you explore your options. Your credit counselor can explain solutions like debt management plans, debt consolidation, and bankruptcy. Finding the Best Debt Relief Solution for YouĬredit counseling isn't a debt relief solution, but it’s a starting point for people who are looking for the right solution.Two Types of Credit Counseling Services.Information Your Credit Counselor Will Need.Working With a Nonprofit Credit Counseling Agency.