Honesty is a lonely word
When it comes to money, many people will lie or cheat to have more. That's why it's so difficult to know who you can trust for the debt management help you need. While many people aren't honest, they can't hide from public forms and reviews.
Check the Internet
First, check the Internet for honest reviews from consumers who may rate the Non-Profit Debt Management Help agency. If you see a poor rating or people have said something negative, inquire about it at the agency. Usually your gut feeling will tell you if you can trust what the person has said. Also, check the better business bureau to see if any complaints have been filed against the agency.
Check the sponsors
Before signing up for debt help from an agency, ask whether it is funded by any major credit card companies. Oftentimes, agencies that are funded by a credit card company do not really have a vested interest in helping you as a consumer. They are more interested in helping the credit card companies get the most money they can from you.
Red flags to look out for
When seeking debt help from an agency, interview the counselor to make sure they are legitimate. Some red flags to watch out for include promises that you will get out of debt in no time at all. If they promise to pay off all your debt with little or no effort from you, it's a scam. Don't give your social security number out or any secret identifying information or passwords. Don't be suckered into low interest rates if they say the interest accumulates and must be paid at the end of a period of time if you miss a payment. Don't take a second mortgage out on your home or offer your house in any way as collateral. Also, don't have any relative or friend co-sign a loan or agree to pay off any debt.
Don't accumulate new debt
Finally, an honest non profit debt management help company will not offer new credit cards. Their goal will be to help you budget, learn to live below your means and earn more income to support your desired lifestyle. They will not want you to accumulate any more debt.
