If you're in debt and you can't find a solution to your financial problems, you may decide to seek help. Consumer credit counseling is an important step to take to stop creditors from harassing you and pay your bills on time. But it's very important to go with a certified source so that your credit problems can be solved by a professional.

Some credit repair clinics advertise to get consumers with poor credit histories, promising to clean up their credit for a fee. Sometimes they want a hefty fee in advance. And all too late, the consumer realizes that they can't deliver. The "clinics" may simply vanish with your money, or do something which you could have done yourself.

For professional debt assistance, find out what services the business provides and what it costs. If there is an up-front fee, find out exactly what it's for. Some companies will persuade you to file bankruptcy, either Chapter 13 or Chapter 7, and then leave you holding the bag if you have to deal with a protracted court settlement, a property lien or a repossession.

Debt Consolidation Companies

The best consumer credit counseling will tell you how to avoid bankruptcy. They will guide you to debt consolidation companies that work exclusively with approved non-profit credit counseling agencies. This kind of consumer credit counseling will allow you to renegotiate your outstanding debts with your creditors. They will act as an intermediary, getting you much lower interest rates and guaranteeing you a substantial reduction in your monthly payments.