If your debts are out of control, and you can't seem to handle it on your own, it may be time for professional help.

You can get a recommendation from a friend or relative, an advertisement, or telephone book. When you find a counseling agency, you should do some research and ask some questions.

You should check on any agency with the Better Business Bureau. You should also call the agency and interview them. Remember, you are going to trust them with your financial situation, so it is important to learn as much as possible about the agency.

Here are some questions you may want to ask:

• Does the agency have an established reputation in the community?
• Is the agency accredited, which means it has been judged for quality?
• Is the agency a not-for-profit?
• Are there any fees? How much will help cost?
• Will you be required to sign a contract, and if so, can you cancel at any time without any penalties?
• How are the counselors trained? Do counselors have college degrees or suitable training and certification? Can you expect confidentiality?
• What does a counseling session include? Does it include a complete analysis of your budget, debts, and an action plan to help you get out of debt?

You should feel comfortable with any agency with whom you decide to work. You must feel free to ask questions and expect answers. Do not sign anything you do not understand. With a little effort, you can find a consumer credit and debt counselor who is right for you.

The above information should be understood to be a general discussion of the subject matter and DOES NOT constitute a legal opinion about the situation. For further information, please consult a qualified attorney.

Financial information provided by the Financial Center.

(c) Consumer Credit Counseling Service (r) of Central Indiana, Inc. 2001. Reprint with permission only.