Free Non Profit Debt Consolidation - Are They Really Free Or Will I Pay Hidden Charges? PDF Print E-mail
Written by Henry D Wilkins   
Monday, 09 November 2009 16:04
In a land where the average debt per card is over $4000 and close to 1 / 4 of American citizens admitted to maximizing out one card, it is sensible that folk are searching for easy answers to ease their burden of debt. A non profit debt consolidation company can appear to be the solution to a prayer.
by HenryDWilkins


In a land where the average debt per card is over $4000 and close to 1 / 4 of American citizens admitted to maximizing out one card, it is sensible that folk are searching for easy answers to ease their burden of debt. A non profit debt consolidation company can appear to be the solution to a prayer.

Many Americans have several credit cards, all with substantial balances and high interest rates and monthly payments. A non profit debt consolidation company negotiates with each creditor to reduce interest rates and monthly payments. After getting the best deal possible for the consumer, the non profit debt consolidation company totals the monthly bills, so that the consumer only has to write one check to the non profit debt consolidation company. The company then distributes the payments to the different creditors.

The good non profit debt consolidation corporations also offer monetary analysis and help with budgeting so the shopper doesn't find him or herself right back in the hole. Sadly , though , as with any other kind of business, there are good firms and bad ones. The coolest ones will help you to get and stay clear of debt.

The bad ones will pocket your monthly payments to fill their own coffers. Your understandably outraged creditors won't see a cent of the money, or if they do, they will receive far less than the agreed upon amount. The creditors will then take out their anger on your with harassing phone calls, negative reports to credit agencies, etc.

The Fed. Trade Commission internet site offers fantastic info on separating the wolves from the lambs. Generally be cautious of any company that uses high pressure sales strategies or charges exorbitant "up front" charges or donations.

Debt consolidation isn't for everybody. Before beginning you on a debt consolidation plan, the company should offer you credit analysis to get a full image of your earnings, purchasing habits, financial weaknesses and strengths, and so on. Any company that instantly wants to put you on a debt consolidation plan is suspicious. Ask the company up front if they're going to keep a proportion of your standard payment and what that % is for. Ideally all of the cash you pay per month should go to your creditors.

Eventually , because the business publicizes itself as non profit doesn't actually mean it is fair. Many illegitimate "non profits" charge preposterous "donations" to use their services. Getting in with the incorrect debt consolidation company can cost your credit record and your assurance. Do your analysis scrupulously to ensure the company you are working with has your own interests at heart.

DISCLAIMER: This article is provided as information only and is not to be taken as financial advice.