When your financial situation becomes unmanageable, turning to a business that offers help in solving debt or credit problems may seem like a reasonable solution. But you need to proceed with caution!

Things to Consider:
1. Check out any company with your state Attorney General, local consumer protection office and the Better Business Bureau in the company's location. They may be able to tell you whether other consumers have registered complaints about the business.
2. Any reputable company should send you free information about itself and the services it provides without requiring you to provide any details about your situation. If not, consider that a red flag and go elsewhere for help.
3. Don't rely on oral promises. Always get everything in writing.
4. Be sure to consider several companies before choosing to do business with any organization.
5. Educate yourself fully and use good sense when entering any financial arrangement.
Important questions to ask...

To learn more choosing the right credit and debt services, and for lists of questions to consider when seeking a specific service, read Credit and Debt Help - How to Choose the right service in our tutorial section.