There is no need to hesitate when reaching out for debt assistance. The longer you wait, the higher the debt grows. A credit counseling agency is one resource you can seek out to help you create a plan. Therefore, you need to know how to quickly find approved credit counseling agencies. Get started today with these steps.
Finding approved credit counseling agencies is important.
How to Find Approved Credit Counseling Agencies
First, an approved credit counseling agency has been evaluated by external organizations in that field, like NFCC and AICCCA. They should also have good standing with the Better Business Bureau and the state. ACCC is a member of NFCC.
Why should you choose an approved credit counseling agency? For one, you will be revealing a lot about your finances. You don’t want to give away personal information to a company that you don’t trust. Next, they will be helping you create a financial plan moving forward. This will be the foundation of your future finances. You will want the very best directions. Finally, you should be confident in the counselors, the company overall and their advice. Here are some criteria to consider as you research approved credit counseling agencies:
- Non-profit agency
- Be in business for several years
- Licensed in your state
- Charge no minimum fees for credit counseling
- Counselors are certified by NFCC or AICCCA
- Should evaluate your current finances and offer next steps
- Provide financial education materials
- Find even more resources at FTC.gov
What Is Credit Counseling Like?
During credit counseling, the counselor will review your overall financial situation with you. He or she will ask you about your income, expenses, assets, and liabilities. That way, they’ll have a good idea of what your best options might be moving forward. Make sure to have all your documents and current status of the accounts on hand.
Next, the credit counselor will talk about what your options are. These might be referrals to social services or working directly with your creditors. Your credit counselor may also recommend the services of the counseling agency, such as:
- Debt management program
- Bankruptcy counseling
- Student loan counseling
- Housing counseling
Once your counseling session is over, you can rest assured knowing that you’re not alone. There are resources available that can help you get out of debt, create a budget, and work toward all your financial goals. You might feel like you’re a long way off from achieving them, but if you’re seeking credit counseling, you’re on the right track.
Everyone hits financial rough patches, and ACCC is here to help you overcome them. Sign up for a free credit counseling session today.
