For an honest, helpful debt management service, go to the National Foundation for Credit Counseling.

Some debt management services aren’t very “service” oriented at all. They want to take advantage of people who are already having money problems. They want to turn a profit. They couldn’t care less about whether you get out of debt or not.

That’s why the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (www.nfcc.org) is such a godsend. More than 100 local organizations across the country are NFCC members, and all are nonprofit agencies whose goal is to genuinely help people who are struggling with debt. That’s why, before choosing a debt management service, you should look for the NFCC seal.

Even better, go to the NFCC’s website and use the locator tool to find an NFCC member near you. If it’s not NFCC, you may not be on solid ground.

You see, removing the stress of debt from your life requires more than just paying off what you currently owe. It also means altering your lifestyle, spending habits, and savings patterns, so that you can avoid getting back into debt.

Your current debts are merely the symptom, not the disease. The “disease” is the way you have historically managed your money. Don’t feel too bad because most Americans suffer from the same ailment!

We want things NOW, we don’t appreciate the true cost of buying on credit, and we don’t often think about the consequences. That’s the mindset that needs to change.

The NFCC debt management service agencies offer counseling, workshops, and other educational resources. These are either free or at a very low price.

The NFCC reports that more than a third of the people who come to them for help are able to handle their own debts after getting guidance from them, without having to go on an official Debt Management Program (DMP).

Compare that with the shadier organizations, who don’t care about educating you - all they want to do is get you on a DMP right away, and start collecting fees from you for doing it.

Let common sense be your guide. If you’re trying to manage your money better, it’s illogical to pay someone a lot to help you.

That’s the first rule of money management: Don’t pay a lot for help in managing your money!

You might not need a debt management service at all, even if you’re in debt now.

If you’re able to pay your bills on time each month, then you’re probably OK on your own. However, if you’re struggling, and especially if you’re starting to fall behind, contact the NFCC and look into getting some qualified assistance.

You have nothing to lose, and what you learn could make a huge difference in your finances.

» Debt Relief Company - For Better or Worse?
Most debt relief company advertisements are packed full of misleading statements and complete lies. Be certain you know how to choose a qualified agency to work with.

» Debt Relief Counseling - Buyer Beware!
Most debt relief counseling organizations are a complete waste of money and a total scam on the consumer. You can most likely address your debt successful on your own, with only a little guidance.

» Debt Relief Program - Snowballing – The Big Mo!
The best debt relief program you can find is one that costs you nothing. The Big Mo is a program you can begin to apply immediately, at no additional cost.

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