Credit counseling

Many consumers find they have too many credit cards to easily manage themselves, and are in need of some form of credit card consolidation. Credit counseling is one of the most common debt relief options for people in need.

Credit counseling programs typically have their clients close all of their credit card accounts, and instead of paying each of their creditors each month, are expected to make a single payment directly to the credit counseling organization, which in return, disperses the payment to each of the creditors. Aside from the credit card consolidation payments, the primary benefit of credit counseling is the fact they usually are also able to negotiate lower interest rates for their clients, which reduces the amount of time it takes to get out of debt.

Before choosing credit counseling, or any other debt relief option, it is always advisable to explore your options.

Many universities, military bases, credit unions and housing authorities operate nonprofit financial counseling programs. Some charge a fee for their services. Creditors may be willing to accept reduced payments if you are working with a reputable program to create a debt repayment plan.

However, credit counseling organizations have faced scrutiny because of their misuse as a "nonprofit" organization. Because an organization says it is a "non profit," there is no guarantee that the services provided are free, affordable, or even legitimate. In fact, some credit counseling organizations charge high hidden fees, or even urge consumers to make voluntary contributions that can cause more debt.

Most credit counselors offer services through local offices, the Internet, or on the telephone. If possible, find an organization that offers in-person counseling. Your financial institution, local consumer protection agency, and friends and family also may be good sources of information and referrals.

• Be wary of credit counseling organizations that charge high up-front or monthly fees for enrolling in their program.

• Pressure you to make "voluntary contributions," which is another name for fees.

• Refuse to send you free information about the services they provide without requiring you to provide personal financial information, such as credit card account numbers, and balances.

• Try to enroll you in a debt management plan (DMP) without spending time reviewing your financial situation.

• Offer to enroll you in a DMP without teaching you budgeting and money management skills.

• Demand that you make payments into a DMP before your creditors have accepted you into the program.