A Brief Guide to Comparing Debt Management Programs

If you are struggling to match your monthly income and your bills, or are burdened by debt, you might want to enroll in a debt management program. There are a dizzying number of debt management programs and options available, and at Advantage CCS, we want you to select the best one for your needs. You can either enroll in a non-profit program or a for-profit program, with or without a credit counseling option.

Non-profit programs are almost always free, and they're a good place to start if you need some simple money management tips or advice. Non-profit companies offer credit counseling and debt management programs. These types of agencies are normally certified and have good relationships with all major creditors.

The debt management program you select should be accredited. Always select a company that is licensed with the Association of Independent Consumer Credit Counseling Agencies or the National Foundation for Credit Counseling. Any service or agency you select should also be compliant with International Organization for Standardization regulations. (The ISO is a non-governmental organization that determines standards for services such as debt counseling and management programs.) You can also call your local Better Business Bureau chapter to determine the quality of a program that interests you.

Reputable programs do not charge hidden service fees. Most for-profit debt management services do ask for a fee up-front. However, reputable agencies use this fee to work for you - in essence, to assist you in settling debts and paying them off. Remember, for-profit companies are in business to make money! Disreputable agencies price-gouge their clients in need and take advantage of them. That's why it's especially important to check an agency's standing with the Better Business Bureau before enrolling in sessions.

Advantage CCS is a reputable non-profit credit counseling agency offering credit counseling and debt management services. We serve clients in New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, with services in major metropolitan areas like Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Cincinnati, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens.