Credit and Debt Counseling
Will my creditors know I have an appointment with you?
When you tell a creditor you have an appointment with us, or the creditor has referred you to one of our local agencies, we may get a call to verify your appointment.
Will credit counseling stop legal action and creditor phone calls?
In many cases we are able to work with creditors to stop any legal action, and develop a solution that will satisfy everyone. If you maintain your payment arrangements with us most often the majority of phone calls will stop.
Why will creditors reduce payments through you instead of working directly with me?
Each member agency employs independently Certified Consumer Credit Counselors who evaluate your overall financial situation. Because we help you come up with realistic options to solve your particular financial problem, creditors will work with us – and, through the agency, with you.
What is a judgment?
A judgment is a decision issued by the court at the end of a lawsuit. If you are sued and either don’t file papers or file papers but eventually lose the case, the person who sued you will get a judgment. Most creditors need a court judgment to attach your wages or put a lien on your property.
What is a “charge off?” If my debt has been “charged off,” can a creditor pursue collection?
When an account is considered uncollectable, a creditor will write it off as a bad debt or “charge off.” Depending on each creditor’s policy, a “charge off” will occur between 90 to 180 days after you become delinquent. However, a creditor can still pursue collection of the debt after a “charge off” and it will also be reported to the credit bureaus.
What happens when I contact an agency?
When you contact an agency you will be advised of any information you need for your financial review session. You will be able to gather your financial documents and other relevant information together, and receive professional help in-person, by phone, or online.
What do NFCC members charge for counseling services?
It varies depending on the support for each member and state laws, but the majority of these services are provided at no or low cost to clients.
What are the benefits of working with Certified Consumer Credit Counselors?
Certified Consumer Credit Counselors are experts who tailor confidential programs to meet your specific needs. They will help you understand your situation so you can get on the road to financial freedom.
My wages have been attached. What does that mean?
When your wages are attached or garnished, a sum of money is deducted from your paycheck and sent to the creditor. Wage attachments are a common method used to collect a court judgment or back owed child support.
My car was repossessed and resold. Am I liable for the difference between what the car sold for and what was owed?
Yes. If not paid, the creditor may initiate legal action for the difference between the sale price of the car and what you owed.
My agency is interested in becoming a member of the NFCC. Where do I find information about the application process?
To find information about the application process click here.
I need help and would like to contact a financial counselor. How do I find an NFCC member agency?
To locate an NFCC member agency in your area click here.
How is counseling available?
Because our network of agencies care about you and your needs, they offer help in a number of ways:
- In-person
- Via our national toll-free hotline (800.388.2227)
- Online
How do I become a credit counselor?
To become a Certified Consumer Credit Counselor requires an understanding of the theories, principles, issues, counseling techniques, and forms that are applicable to credit and financial counseling. The required subjects (Books 1-6) are: (1) Basic Counseling Principles, (2) Budgeting, (3) Credit, (4) Collections & Debt Management, (5) Consumer Rights & Responsibilities, and (6) Bankruptcy. Each book includes objectives, key concepts, and review questions. Each section of the counselor certification examination consists of a variety of multiple-choice questions. Once certification is obtained, counselors are expected to maintain and aspire to the highest possible level of professional development. Counselors are initially certified for two years and must submit annual documentation of continuing development. A certified counselor must accumulate a minimum of 20 Professional Development Units (PDUs) each two years to maintain certification. Professional development and continuing education areas that fulfill the PDUs requirement include such activities as direct counseling, association memberships, attendance at workshops and conferences, teaching, as well as publishing and research activities. Only NFCC member agency employees can receive certification through NFCC’s Counselor Certification Program.
How are agencies funded?
Agencies are funded through a variety of sources including voluntary contributions from creditors who participate in our Debt Management Plans (DMP), local grants from private sources and foundations, and client fees and contributions.
FAQ: What is the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA)?
It’s a federal law that protects consumers from harassment or threats made by creditors and prohibits creditors from making false statements. This law also prohibits a debt collector from disclosing what you owe to anyone but your attorney.
Do most creditors contribute to the agency?
Yes, many creditors support the agency services. However, if for some reason they do not, we will still work with them to reduce your payments.