Tag Archives: credit counseling

Protecting Yourself from a Debt Relief Company

If you are seriously in debt, you may need the help of a debt relief company. These companies promise to get the creditors off of your back, negotiate for you, act as a shield of protection, and guide you to the right way to pay off that debt. Unfortunately, for a majority of these companies, the real goal is to scam you out of any remaining assets that you might have. Here is what you need to know and need to look for in a debt relief company, in order to protect yourself. First of all, why would these companies … Continue reading →

Choosing a Credit Counseling Agency

This month I have been discussing credit counseling services. In Do you Need Credit Counseling?, I gave some possible benefits to credit counseling services. Then in Credit Repair Scams, I gave some possible pitfalls of credit counselors. Today I wanted to offer some help on how to find a good credit counseling agency if you have decided to take the leap for help. Unfortunately, the credit counseling industry is full of scams and poorly run companies. The rules that govern them can vary greatly from state to state, plus they are confusing and disorganized. Relying on the law to help … Continue reading →

Credit Repair Scams

If you are on the hunt for ways to improve your credit, be very careful of credit repair scams. Anyone that makes big promises about erasing your debt or any guarantees of quickly improving your score… be wary. In the world of credit and debt, if something seems too good to be true, it most likely is. Debt reduction and credit repair take dedication and hard work. There are no quick fixes. The Federal Trade Commission monitors and regulates the credit repair businesses. Due to good consumer watchdogs, many have been shut down. Still, it pays to be very careful… … Continue reading →

The Effects of Debt on Credit

It is always good to pay down your debt. It makes your credit report and score better, but the effect may not happen as quickly as you like. Debt problems, like late payments and unpaid bills, will stay on your report for seven years — even if you take care of them. The longer back in your history they are though, the less impact they have on your credit score. Bankruptcy is the most serious flag on a credit report and should only be used as a last resort. Bankruptcies stay on your report for ten years and have a … Continue reading →

Do you Need Credit Counseling?

Are you having trouble with debt? Do you have a hard time saying no to your credit card? If so, there are times it can be useful to have the assistance of others. Debt and credit counseling is a huge industry. Due to this, it has good and bad along with it. If you truly feel out of control or that you have no hope, then it is time to consider counseling. Many people are addicted to spending and credit cards are simply fuel for the fire. Credit counseling can help you negotiate with creditors as well as help you … Continue reading →

Free Credit Counseling and Credit Unions

Obtaining credit counseling is a good idea if you happen to be in a situation that makes it difficult to pay your bills. Whether it is an inflated mortgage or thousands of dollars in credit card debt, there are people who can help you get your debt under control and set up a payment plan. Credit counseling, while a good investment, can be expensive. Isn’t this ironic, since you have to spend more money to help you get out of debt? One thing that you might not know, though, is that many credit unions offer free credit counseling to their … Continue reading →

Bankruptcy

The legalities of bankruptcy can be confusing. Let’s discuss a few of the basics to help provide you an overview. Even if you don’t think you ever might need to file, this information can be helpful in general for discussing finances with others or even just reading the paper. Chapter 13 is the simplest personal type of bankruptcy. It is the mildest; as it helps you pay off some of your debts and allows you to keep certain assets. This kind of bankruptcy is important for home owners, because they will be allowed to keep their house. It protects you … Continue reading →