Finding yourself in a position of needing financial help is not the most pleasant of places. But, through overspending or unforeseen circumstances such as car repairs or medical emergencies, you will get there quickly. Certainly, most situations are stressful and the hopeless feelings can quickly overcome your thoughts. However, this is the time to think positively and search out a way to conquer this challenge. One of the best ways to alleviate your situation is to consult a debt consolidation service.

Where to Find the Best Debt Consolidation Programs

There are many throughout the United States, but there are good ones and not so good ones to use. Essentially, you should look for a non-profit organization that has a "get started" fee of less than $50 and a monthly maintenance fee of less than $20. These small fees are needed for the company to subsidize its operating costs. In addition, be sure to watch out for the "for profit" companies that may try to push services on you without a proper financial analysis or those credit counselors that receive a commission for services sold. With a little research time you can find a great debt consolidation service in your area.

Use the Better Business Bureau to Investigate Debt Consolidation Services

The Better Business Bureau is perhaps one of the greatest resources that the American consumer has working for them. The BBB offers companies the ability to join a group of other companies that are committed to ethical business practices and actively market themselves in that fashion. The consumer wins with this service because each company receives a grade that reflects their willingness to solve issues, commitment to a good product and a commitment to keep the customer in mind. Looking for a debt consolidation company on their website (www.bbb.org) will be easy and painless. Though their information will not provide you with everything you need, it will certainly narrow the field of groups you should talk to.

The Department of Justice and Federal Trade Commission

The Department of Justice (www.usdoj.gov) and the Federal Trade Commission (www.ftc.gov) are also great resources for researching prospective debt consolidation companies. If you are really behind on your credit card payments and are now subject to collection efforts, you can also access the Fair Debt Collections Act and the Fair Credit Reporting Act. By spending the time reading these you will become familiar with what an unfair practice is should you need the information.

Your Bank and Financial Advisor

Since you are seeking financial help and answers, why not contact those people already responsible for working with your finances? Being in the industry most people will have networks of contacts where good debt consolidation companies can be accessed. Also, explaining to these professionals your situation, they may also extend their own services and ideas of how to dig yourself out of the hole of debt. You never know what tools are available to you if you do not ask. The worst that can happen is you increase your level of awareness.