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Credit counseling is a service that can be beneficial to consumers who have credit problems, those seeking to avoid credit problems, and those who are simply looking for ways to enhance their already good credit profiles. What this means is that almost everyone can benefit from credit counseling, provided you are working with a reputable organization.
What is Credit Counseling?
Credit counseling is a service that educates consumers about reducing debt, managing money, and using credit wisely. Different organizations will do this in distinct ways with the ultimate goal of helping you develop a favorable relationship with your debt so that it is working for you rather than against you. The key to remember, though, is that you do not need to be struggling with debt to benefit from credit counseling.
Who Should Use Credit Counseling?
While many people only consider credit counseling when they find themselves in over their heads with debt, the fact remains that you can benefit in many ways from the services. Even if you do not have the means to work with a long-term financial planner, you can work with a credit counselor to create long and short-term financial goals and begin working on a plan for achieving them.
People who are sailing in debt-infested waters can turn to credit counseling to help them right their ships and set their financial futures back on the right course. You will also find credit counseling highly beneficial if you are looking for ways to pay off your debt, reduce your debt, or obtain (and maintain) a debt-free lifestyle.
Credit is a two-edged sword for many. You need it to get it, but once you have it, you often find it even more necessary. Credit counseling helps you manage your finances more effectively no matter how meager or robust they may be. The service is ideal for people of all ages, life stages, and income levels.
Services Provided
Services will vary somewhat from one agency to the next, but most will include some variation of the following services as part of their credit counseling offerings:
Fees Charged
Credit counselors get paid in two ways. Some charge fees to consumers for their services. Others receive funds from creditors when they successfully negotiate payment structures. Ask up front about their fee structure and your financial obligations to them. Some agencies keep the first payment as a donation. Ask about this specifically before signing with any agency and use that information in your decision-making process.
Be on the Lookout
Not all credit counseling agencies have your best interests at heart. Watch closely for signs that all is not right, like these:
Credit counseling is a valuable service that is being used daily to help people, just like you or someone you know, take control of their debts and their financial futures. You will have to schedule an appointment with a reputable credit counseling agency to learn more about how this valuable service can be beneficial to you.