Credit Counseling and Such

[caitryn]

My husband and I are seriously considering credit counseling. Our biggest issue is credit cards. Everytime we start to get the things paid down, something happens (like job loss) which leads to us living off the things for a while.

I would love to consolidate the credit card payments, but I don't know how. I see companies and offers all the time, but I don't know how many of them are legit. I'm not too big on handing out my personal information to just anyone.

Anyone know of a good service that is actually legit? The only person I know who has tried anything was burned twice. My credit is not bad, per se, but it is below average. I also live in north central Missouri if that makes a difference.

[Free Thinker]

Hello from a current Missourian! I don't have any recomendations for credit councilors, but there is Dave Ramsey, who's plan seems easy to follow for those who are willing to put forth the work! He reccomends doing a snowball effect, say you pay the minimums on all hte card, except the one w/ the lowest balance. On that one you throw as much money at it as you can, while cutting out all expenses, and get it paid off ASAP. When you get one card paid off, cut it up and go toward the next lowest balance, going up the line. You can also call the companies directly and ask them to lower your interest!

[Purple*Lotus]

I suggest Dave Ramsey before anything else, personally.

If you still want credit counseling, I would go with Consumer Credit Counseling. Not sure if they are in your area, but we have them here. They negotiate your late fees/interest rate and charge a very small fee. The ones advertised on TV scare me and I would avoid them at all costs.

But try Dave first though, I think his system is very sound and has worked for a lot of people.

[CathToria]

The best ones FWIU are through consumer credit counseling. I like Dave Ramsey too, but I LOVE www.clarkhoward.com HTH