Credit Counseling & Debt Management

Through both basic credit counseling and debt management assistance, CCCS can help consumers identify solutions to creditor calls as well as potential garnishments or bankruptcy. These sessions begin with an assessment of one’s total financial picture including income, living expenses and total debt load. After an in-depth analysis of a client’s financial situation, the client is provided with a written assessment outlining a suggested action plan. Oftentimes, by making budget adjustments and adhering to simple suggestions, a client may be able to handle his or her finances directly. If budget modification alone is not sufficient, and functional arrangements can be negotiated with the client’s creditors, a client may be able to enroll in CCCS’s Debt Management Plan (DMP). Under a DMP, CCCS serves as a neutral third party in negotiating with creditors to repay and eventually liquidate the client’s credit obligations. Through a DMP, creditors may reduce the client’s monthly payments and waive or reduce interest and/or fees. These concessions can be most helpful as clients begin their journey to become debt-free. If repayment assistance through CCCS is not feasible, our counselors may be able to discuss alternatives for dealing with financial difficulties and make appropriate referrals, as well as answer general questions.

Both basic credit counseling and debt management sessions generally last 1.25-1.5 hours and include time for questions and answers. These one-on-one sessions may be conducted either face-to-face with a counselor or via internet, telephone or by mail. There is a $20 fee charged for the initial assessment associated with either of these services; however, under limited circumstances the fee may be waived. If, however, one chooses to enroll in a Debt Management Plan through CCCS, he or she will be charged a monthly fee equal to 6.5% of his or her total monthly payment (not to exceed $40 per month). Systematic follow-up is provided as needed and oftentimes determines the effectiveness of suggested changes and a client’s ability to follow suggestions.