February 13,2009
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News: Seeking Reputable CC Help.
For those in deep credit card debt and want help, there is a much better alternative to those ‘quick-fix scams' that derail your sincere efforts by being ‘first-in-your-face'. The reputable credit card assistance organizations can easily be found either on-line or by phone. Although, there are many to choose from, it's important to determine up front who they really are. Be sure to clear the air at the get-go concerning hidden fees or other entanglements that will bite you later on and waste your valuable time. You may be okay with paying money out for this credit card recovery help but, be advised that it isn't always necessary. The counseling can be free. At least make sure you know up front what will happen in the end.
The best place to start looking for help with credit card debt is with the reputable non-profits. You'll know they're legitimate if they claim to be non-profit and don't attach any fees, hidden or otherwise. Two highly regarded credit card debt counseling referral entities are the "LSS Financial Counseling Service" and the "National Foundation for Credit Counseling". The ‘LSS' group can be found on-line at ‘www.CCCS.org' (always look for that ‘.org' URL suffix). They can also be reached by phone at 1-888-577-2227. The ‘National Foundation' group can be found on-line at ‘www.NFCC.org' and by telephone at 1-800-388-2227.
Even if you're bent on paying money out for credit card help, you should try the reputable non-profits first to see if you're getting your money's worth. You may find that, after all the promises, you're getting the same help either way. For example, both will likely put you on a ‘Debt Management Plan'. The difference you should look for if paying for the service is the responsible time and effort the councilor is committing to your situation with phone calls, letters and further research into your unique situation. They may provide you with quality financial planning tools and software, complete with online tracking. Look for substance beyond the promises. For further tips in making the right choices in credit card debt counseling, please refer to the article series entitled "Enlisting Reputable CC Help".