Get started on the path to financial freedom.
We are the National Foundation for Credit Counseling—a nonprofit network of certified credit counseling agencies to help you take the next steps towards debt reduction and financial stability.
Curious about the process? Review our FAQs or watch the short video below.
Getting started is easy. Just call the number below or fill out the online form to connect with one of our Member Agencies.
How it works.
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Perform a confidential consultation with the NFCC and review your unique financial situation.
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Get a personalized action plan at low to no cost.
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See if you qualify for a Debt Management Plan that could reduce your monthly payment across all of your creditors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What will it cost me?
As a nonprofit, the majority of these services are provided at no or low cost to you but cost varies depending on the support for each member and state laws.
What are the potential benefits of credit counseling?
Credit counseling may enable you to qualify for a debt management plan and some of the benefits you may experience from enrolling are:
- Stop collection calls
- Consolidate bills
- Lower interest rates regardless of credit score
- Eliminate late fees and over the limit charges
- Pay off your debt faster
What if I have multiple credit cards from different creditors?
No problem! We take a holistic approach and look at your entire financial situation which may help you achieve debt relief. Agencies will try to work with all your creditors but some creditors may choose not to participate, or decline the proposal.
What is the NFCC?
We are a non-profit trusted network of credit counseling agencies. We’re not only the largest and longest-serving nonprofit financial counseling organization in the United States but our Certified Consumer Credit Counselors are experts who tailor confidential programs to meet your specific needs.
When you work with an NFCC agency on a debt management program, you may benefit from reduced or waived finance charges or fees, fewer collection calls, and your accounts will be credited with 100 percent of the amount you send in.
Will you settle my debt?
No, we do not offer debt settlement services but we do offer personalized debt management solutions where we negotiate with multiple creditors to establish payment plans that help you pay your debt in full.
Read what the Federal Government’s Consumer Financial Protection Bureau says about the difference between credit counseling and debt settlement here.
What’s a Debt Management Plan?
A Debt Management Plan (DMP) is not a loan. It’s a tool to get you back on the road to a financially stable, debt-free future. A dedicated NFCC-certified, nonprofit credit counselor can also help you determine if entering into a Debt Management Plan is the right option for you, and if not, lay out all your available options.
Will this impact my ability to spend on my card?
Credit counseling alone has no impact on your ability to spend on your card. If you qualify for and enroll in a debt management plan then it may impact your ability to spend on your card.
Are you part of my bank?
No, each member agency employs independently Certified Consumer Credit Counselors who evaluate your overall financial situation. Banks will work with us – and, through the agency, with you.
Will credit counseling hurt my credit score?
Many factors affect your credit, such as payment history and amount of credit extended and used. Using your credit responsibly may help you build good credit. If you choose to work with a NFCC Certified Credit and Debt Counselor, they can provide you with a complete overview and understanding of what’s on your credit report, and give you feedback and guidance on ways to improve your credit worthiness.
Is a Credit Counseling Agency different from a Debt Settlement Company?
Yes. According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), Debt relief or settlement companies are companies that say they can renegotiate, settle, or in some way change the terms of a person’s debt to a creditor or debt collector. Click here to learn more about Debt Settlement Companies.
What if I am already enrolled with a Debt Settlement Company?
Speak with a Certified Credit Counselor to determine the best way to move forward based on your specific situation.
What does debt support mean? Do you erase my debt?
Debt support does not erase debt. It means that NFCC Certified Credit Counselors will work with you to determine the best options for getting relief from the financial pressure you are experiencing.
Did you pull my credit report for this?
No, your credit report was not pulled to provide this referral.
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A trusted resource since 1951
1,500+ NFCC certified credit counselors
