|
Choosing a Counseling Service
ALERT
In debt? Before Choosing A Counseling Service...
Know who you are dealing with!!
Be aware that all credit counseling services are not alike. The past few years
have seen the emergence of a "new breed" of counselor that may not
have your best interests in mind. To help you decide, here are some of the
questions you should ask:
-
How long has the agency been in business? Organizations with a
long history of helping consumers are more likely to be reputable. Check
with the Better Business Bureau or State Consumer Protection Division to
see if any complaints have been lodged against the organization.
-
Is the counseling service affiliated with a national trade association? CCCS
of Maryland & Delaware, Inc. is a member of the National Foundation
for Credit Counseling (NFCC). Membership in the NFCC signifies that the
agencies meet the highest quality standards including maintaining a 501(c)(3)
non-profit status.
-
Is there a cost for service? Some counseling services offer free
counseling or consultation. Be sure to find out if there are any set-up and/or monthly maintenance fees. Some of these charges may cost you hundreds of dollars.
Beware of hidden costs.
-
Is the counseling service accredited? CCCS of Maryland & Delaware
is accredited through The Council on Accreditation of Services for Families
and Children, Inc. Rigorous quality and professional performance standards
must be met to achieve and maintain this distinction.
-
Are the agency's counselors certified? Counselors that are trained
and tested on their knowledge of debt management are more likely to provide
accurate and professional advice. Counselors at CCCS of Maryland & Delaware
achieve certification through a series of tests developed jointly by the
NFCC and Purdue University and updated by Accel eMedia.
For additional information please continue browsing our Web Site
or call us at 1-800-642-2227.
- Back to Top
| 
