How do credit card debt councilors work with credit card issuers?

Question

I've seen on t.v. how credit card debt councilors work with banks when people owe a lot of money on their credit cards. They say they can not only reduce the amount owed but also get your monthly payments down to where they are manageable. How do they do this, are there any consequences such as a reduction of credit score, and is it effective (do they really do this or is it a scam)? Also, how much do they charge? Thanks.

Answer 1

Unfortunately the ones who advertise on television are usually in it just for the money.  Beware of any organization that requires an up-front fee.

If you belong to a credit union or there's one that serves your office, they will be able to put you in touch with a reliable organization.

Here's a booklet that will help you:

http://www.consumerlaw.org/initiatives/c...

Answer 2

For what it is worth, you can take consolation that you are not alone in this boat. Millions of Americans are drowning in credit card debt. Our family was struggling with the same issue, until we discovered Financial Peace University. The most informative, common sense course on personal finance I've ever seen.

It teaches you to get on a written plan, how to pay off debt quickly, and then begin to save and build wealth.

The courses are taught all over the country. The cost is around $95 for the 13 week course (2 hours per week). Some organizations that teach it often have scholarships available, so you may want to inquire about that as well.

Here is a sneak peek preview of the course at these three links:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oLX3wUY1x...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uQQ0DI1nv...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Al_xeLkhM...

To find a class in your area, go to http://www.daveramsey.com/fpu/home/.

I also suggest that you listen to Dave Ramsey on the radio. He gives an abundance of free advice daily. You can find a local station at this link:http://www.daveramsey.com/radio/home/ind...

There is hope! You can get out of that mess. Our family has and you can too!!

Answer 3

Hey I know one company who is providing credit card Counseling services  at very cheap rates. There charges are very nominal, and service is very professioanal and excellent, I have done my counseling from this site: http://www.debtreduction123.net they have very smart and telantive people at their place, always thinks in your favor. I was really satisfied with their services. You try it out....

Answer 4

HUGE ramifications of using a debt consolidation company.  These companies are viewed the same as bankruptcies are viewed on your credit report.  This tells the creditor that you are not able to manage your credit.  

Debt consolidation companies cannot guarantee anything.  They work with the creditors and sometimes arrange for a partial repayment.  How partial?  That's entirely up to the creditor - NOT the debt consolidator.

Is it worth it to ruin your credit versus just fixing the problem?  NOT paying your bill is EXACTLY the same as stealing.  You may not go to jail, but you definitely will be penalized for it.

Also ... remember ... employers are now regularly pulling your credit report to get a better look at your character.  Bankruptcy?  Debt Consolidation?  == You can't handle your life.