Credit Counseling The Right Way

As we embark on a New Year, many Americans have made a resolution to get their finances in order this year. Despite record decreases in bankruptcy filings, many of us are feeling the pressure and have prioritized getting out of debt. Many consumers can be quite successful resolving their debts on their own, but everyone could use that extra push credit counseling has to offer.

The Benefits

A reputable credit counseling agency can provide valuable resources at an affordable price. They offer educational courses that can teach anyone how to follow a budget, pay off debts, improve a credit score, negotiate with creditors or even learn tricks to smart investments. Many of these companies offer in-person and online courses that can be completed in a matter of one to two hours.

What To Look For

While  most credit counseling agencies are reputable, there are a fair share of those looking to make easy money from unsuspecting consumers. The most important aspect to finding a reputable credit counselor is to find out their tax status. A good company will operate as a non-profit agency and carry a 501(c) tax status. Consumers can find a list of approved vendors on the U.S. Trustees website.