When you connect with a nonprofit credit counseling agency, you’ll work with a certified counselor who reviews your financial situation. The process typically includes:
- Initial Assessment: You provide a complete picture of your finances, including income, expenses, and debts. This consultation is usually free and confidential.
- Financial Analysis: The counselor analyzes your budget to identify opportunities for savings and determines what you can realistically afford to pay toward your debts.
- Action Plan: Based on the analysis, the counselor will recommend a course of action. This could be simple budgeting advice or enrollment in a Debt Management Plan (DMP).
A DMP is a structured repayment program where the agency may negotiate with your creditors to lower interest rates and waive fees. You then make a single monthly payment to the agency, which distributes the funds to your creditors. A DMP is not a debt consolidation loan; you are not taking on new debt.
How to Choose a Reputable Credit Counseling Agency
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) advises consumers to be selective when choosing a credit counselor. Look for accredited, nonprofit organizations.
Key things to verify:
- Accreditation: Check if the agency is a member of the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) or the Financial Counseling Association of America (FCAA).
- Fee Structure: Reputable agencies offer initial counseling for free or at a low cost. DMP administration fees should be reasonable, typically under $50 per month.
- Services: Ensure they offer education on budgeting and money management, not just a DMP.
Credit Counseling vs. Bankruptcy
Credit counseling is often a viable alternative to bankruptcy. While a DMP requires you to repay your full principal debt, it has a less severe, long-term impact on your credit than bankruptcy. In fact, under the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005, you must receive credit counseling from a government-approved organization before you can file for bankruptcy.
Does Credit Counseling Hurt Your Credit Score?
Enrolling in a DMP can have a temporary, mixed impact on your credit score. When you enter a plan, a notation may appear on your credit report, and you will likely be required to close the credit card accounts included in the plan. Closing accounts can raise your credit utilization ratio, which might lower your score initially.
However, as you make consistent, on-time payments through the DMP, you build a positive payment history and reduce your total debt. These actions are key factors in improving your credit score over the long term.
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Authoritative Resource:
The U.S. Department of Justice maintains a list of approved credit counseling agencies, which is a valuable resource for finding a reputable provider in your state.
List of Approved Credit Counseling Agencies (justice.gov)
