Perhaps, in considering your financial situation you have made the decision to use a debt counseling service. A lot of people assume that going with a christian service is the way to go because it means they will be fair, legitimate, and perhaps even free or low cost.
This is not the case, though there are several good christian debt companies, there are also several bad ones. The bad ones are often headed by dishonest men who are just looking to make a quick buck. In doing so the abuse the faith so many put in the word christian as well as the hard financial & emotional situation you are in.
Some companies make promises and don’t deliver because they are just plain bad companies. They have lazy staff, they don’t communicate well, etc. However, some companies are illegal scamming companies. The debt relief industry seems to attract these scammers because of the high emotional toll being deeply in debt plays on people. It is so hard to have bills that you just can’t pay, have people calling you up all hours of the day and telling they’re going to sue you if you don’t pay them and you’re just trying to figure out how to keep the lights on and buy groceries. Just be aware that these kinds of companies are out there and you can avoid them.
Because any body can promise anything, there are a few good way to protect yourself when you are looking for a good debt settlement company. First, I would get references, as many as you can. If you know someone who has successfully negotiated their debt, find out who they used. Second, look the companies up in the Better Business Bureau. Third, once you do hire a company understand that you are still ultimately responsible for your debt and nobody is going to work as hard as you to fix you. Do not pay large sums of money up front, don’t sign any long term contracts with them, and don’t give them electronic access to your bank account so you can quit quickly & easily if they are one of those bad companies.
Knowing what to avoid and how to search for a good company will give you the leg up that you need to really find a good company for your debt counseling needs.
C. Arnold is an professional at budgeting and debt management. To learn more about Christian Credit Debt Counsoling.
