http://www.prodebtreduction.com/debt-help/consumer-debt-help.html Most consumer debt help companies want to help you, but you have to do a little homework to find the best ones. en-us Sat, 26 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EDT Sat, 26 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EDT Weblog Editor 2.0 If you're looking for consumer debt help to help you with your debt issues, good for you. Here's what to look for when comparing consumer debt help companies. Finding a Reputable Debt Help Company Just like in any industry, when you're looking for a consumer debt help company, there are ones that are good and ones you'll want to avoid. For instance, avoid any debt help services that: Don't have a physical street address or a working phone number Charge you fees before providing any services Don't tell you what you can do yourself for free before getting you started in a program Suggest you establish a new identity or get an employer identification number to replace your Social Security number These are all signs of a disreputable company. A consumer debt help company that's truly got your best interest at heart won't do any of these things. That's not to say that these companies aren't out to make money. Most companies have to make money. After all, the people who work there have to be paid, and there are expenses with running any business. But most good, honest ones prefer to make their money by giving you the debt help you need. A noble cause, to be sure. In fact, in October 2005, Congress passed a law that requires anyone considering bankruptcy to you get credit counseling from a government-approved consumer debt help organization within six months before filing for bankruptcy. If a company is government approved, you know you can trust them. The Department of Justice has a list of these debt help companies on their web site. Some of them even offer free debt help, so keep your eyes peeled. Sat, 26 Jul 2008 15:00:00 EDT