What to Look for in a Counseling Agency

Below you will find a few things to look for when you are seeking out a credit counseling agency.  Be wary that there are counseling schemes out there that will take the money you believe is going toward your debt, and use it as a “charitable contribution.”

Look for reputable agencies: Look at agencies that are members of the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) or the Association of Independent Consumer Credit Counseling Agencies (AICCCA)

Check out the agency: Better Business Bureau, Attorney General’s Office, consumer protection agencies

Call the agency: Come up with a list of questions, ask about any fees, do they give out educational materials?

Who funds the agency? Research on the internet, or call and find out who funds the agency.  Many of the counseling agencies are funded by credit card companies.

Find out about their services: Do they offer more than counseling services? Do they negotiate with your creditors?  ■