What is Debt Counseling?
There is a lot of shame and stigma attached to debt. But the truth is that having debt doesn’t make you bad or irresponsible person. In fact, if you’re struggling with debt, you’re not alone.
Here’s the good news: if you’re ready to seek help and find a debt solution that works for you, then debt counseling might be able to help.
Debt counseling
Debt counseling is typically offered through credit counseling agencies and is often called “credit counseling” as well.
The process of debt counseling is simple: you meet with a trained credit counselor. The counselor thoroughly reviews your finances and then makes personalized recommendations.
When you connect with a credit counselor, there are no fees or obligation to work with the company. In other words, it’s a win-win for your bank account.
Read more: What Does a Credit Counselor Do?
Debt counseling steps
Contact a counselor
The first step is to contact a debt counselor at a reputable credit counseling agency. You can usually contact a counselor by telephone phone 24 hours a day, 7 days per week. Remember, it’s free to call.
Review your finances
The goal for debt counseling is twofold. The first goal is for you to end the call or visit with a better understanding of your overall financial health. The second goal is that you’ll leave with a plan of action. In order to achieve those goals, debt counseling sessions begin with a thorough review of your finances—debt, income, savings, assets and more.
Receive recommendations
Here’s the deal—everyone’s financial situation is different. Because of that, your debt counselor will give you personalized recommendations based on your financial review.
The journey begins
After you receive your recommendations, it’s time for you to decide if you want to embark on your journey towards debt freedom. Once you accept the plan, the journey begins.
As part of that journey, many nonprofit debt and budget counseling agencies will offer additional services and programs to address your particular goals, including programs to help you repay debt, rehabilitate a delinquent mortgage, manage your student loan payments, and more.
If you’re ready to meet with a debt counselor or learn more about nonprofit debt consolidation, Money Management International has trained financial counselors who are ready to help.