The Credit Counseling Professionals

Having financial troubles can be very difficult to manage and in most instances creates an extreme amount of stress in ones life. However, there are viable options available to help you during these challenging times and enrolling into a debt management program with a reliable and reputable agency will most likely provide you with the best options for getting out of debt and back on track financially.

Before you make any hasty decisions and decide to work with an agency, you should take the time to research the true cost of Credit Counseling. There are many agencies out there that charge exorbitant enrollment fees, set up fees and monthly fees. Knowing what to look for is key in your decision making process. Here are some crucial points to look for when determining the best agency.

• What are the fees? Are there any set up fees and or monthly fees? Be sure to get a specific price quote from the counselor.
• Most agencies are subject to state law and can charge no more than the maximum allowed within your state. Make sure you ask the counselor the specific regulations for your state.
• If you are unable to afford the fees of the agency, the agency should be willing to waive the fees if you simply can't afford them.
• Be sure the agency is charging you reasonable fees (not more than $50/month for a debt management plan), but this can vary by State.
• If the agency asks for a voluntary contribution, you may want to consider another agency. There is no such thing as a voluntary contribution.
• Does the agency charge for educational programs and ongoing education? Be sure the agency is willing to provide you with educational materials and resources to help you learn how to manage your finances. The agency should also be able to provide you with ongoing counseling and education at no charge.

ACCC strives to maintain the lowest possible fees to consumers nationwide. Since 1991, ACCC has only made two changes in its fee structure and continues to do everything possible to make our services affordable. We believe strongly in not adding more financial burden to the clients we serve.

We charge a one-time $39 enrollment fee and $3.00 per account and there are never any hidden fees. In addition to this, fees may be waived or discounted depending on your state's regulations, or if you are a full-time student, financial hardship, veteran, active military or senior citizen (age 62 or older). ACCC also provides educational programs at no cost to you as well as ongoing counseling and education. If you choose to work with ACCC, you can be assured we will work with you every step of the way and provide you with a workable and affordable plan.

Below illustrates the average cost associated with enrollment into a debt management program and the costs for educational material based on a nationwide survey conducted on 100 non-profit credit counseling agencies associated with two major member associations.

Graph 1: Illustrates the average costs for agencies that charge fees for enrollment, maintenance and education materials. The maintenance fee calculation was based on a client with 5 credit cards in a debt management program.

Graph 2: Illustrates the average costs for agencies that do not charge for enrollment, but charge fees for maintenance and education. The maintenance fee calculation was based on a client with 5 credit cards in a debt management program.

Disclaimer: These statements are provided for informational purposes only. Consumers seeking credit counseling assistance should check with individual agencies and state guidelines when comparing agencies and the costs associated with joining a debt management program.

To learn more about Choosing a Credit Counseling Agency, read more.

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