The Debt Consolidation Consultation

What should you look for when you go in for a consultation with a debt consolidation company? It is a question that many debtors ask themselves. When you schedule a consultation or meeting with a counselor, be prepared to look for:

•No obligation. Your meeting should not obligate you to do any business with the company. You shouldn’t even feel pressured into signing up for a service or program at your meeting. Instead, this meeting should be a way for you to decide whether the debt consolidation company you are considering is really for you.

•Any written material. Take as much written material with you when you leave the meeting and spend plenty of time at home reading closely. Look for any fine print or details that will let you know exactly what you can expect from the company. When you go in for your meeting, do not sign any contract or agreement, but do take any contract home with you so that you can learn all about the company.

•Free plan. The counselor you meet with should be able to give you a detailed description of what the company can do to help you with your debt. This is an invaluable tool to you, as it will tell you exactly what you are paying for. Go over this plan carefully to see whether you are paying for something you can do yourself or whether the plan is detailed realistic and really does offer you value for your money.

•Options. Your counselor should offer you options and choices that allow you to remain in control of managing your debt.

•Clues to the business. At you’re meeting, look around. Does the company seem legitimate? Do other workers seem to help other clients or is everyone idle or dealing with customer complaints? Your meeting should tell you whether you really want to do business with a specific debt consolidation company.