Tips from the BBB on How to Choose a Consumer Credit Counseling Service

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has become perhaps the most trusted evaluator of businesses in the world. When it comes to choosing a consumer credit counseling service, they offer plenty of advice on what to look for and what to look out for. Here are a few tips from the Better Business Bureau on how to choose a consumer credit counseling service.

• Everything should be disclosed “up front”. The costs of service should be straightforward and reasonable.
• Ask about services beyond a debt-management plan and debt consolidation.
• Is a free budgeting session available? How about other education? It all should be.
• What kinds of fees are charged for any additional counseling services?
• Is the consumer credit counseling service accredited through an independent, third-party association such as the Council on Accreditation? Are counselors certified? If not, what kind of training do they have?
• You don't need to pay a credit counselor to receive a new payment plan from a creditor. You could simply call a credit card company and ask for help on your own. All they can do is say no.

Ask all of these questions when you are choosing a consumer credit counseling service and you will know that you have made the right decision based on the most trusted business organization you can find.