Dec 19th 2007, 15:13

Get Free Credit Counseling

Avoid going deeper into debt

Having credit problems? Want to know how to avoid incurring debts that you can't repay? You can get quick, free credit advice over the phone, in person, or through mail.

Whether you need to know more about managing credit and getting out of debt, assistance in negotiating better terms with your creditors, or guidance on budgeting your money and meeting your debt obligations, these organizations can give you free and confidential counseling: the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) and its member agencies, and the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) Consumer Response Center.

National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC)

The National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) has over 100 member agencies and more than 900 local offices nationwide that provide comprehensive money management services like budget counseling and education, debt management, counseling referral services, and financial literacy courses. The services are provided free and/or at low cost, and are offered in-person or by phone, or even web-based. To call the NFCC, dial 1-800-388-2227 or 1-800-682-9832 for help in Spanish (9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday).

Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) Consumer Response Center

The Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) Consumer Response Center gives general information on managing credit, tips on how to be a smart financial consumer, guidelines for getting rid of consumer debt, and information on your rights as a consumer. Their toll free number is 1-877-FTC-HELP.

In addition, to protect you from credit counseling organizations using questionable practices, the IRS launched the IRS Consumer Alert on Credit Counseling Organizations initiative. Be wary of organizations that offer "quick fixes." As a precaution, look up the IRS Consumer Alert on Credit Counseling Organizations to get an IRS-compliant credit counselor. To view the IRS Consumer Alert, you can go to: http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=118058,00.html.

 

To Do List: - Suggested Links:

1. Increase Your Income:
   Get an online degree with financial aid from the government.
2. ConsolidateYour Bills:
   Student Loans - Credit Card Debts - Refinance Home
3. Get some cash you don’t have to pay back:
   Government has money for almost any worthwhile need.
4. A MasterCard or Visa, even if your credit is not good
   A real line of credit