Are you looking for a way to get out of debt and organize your finances?

Well, before you hire a credit counselor or debt negotiator, you may want to check things out.

Karen Stiles of the TODAY’S TMJ4 Call 4 Action office has some tips about these servies, and what you should know before contracting for their services.

Services offered by credit counselors differ from debt negotiators because typically, a credit counselor helps you to manage your money and debts by helping you develop a budget, pay off debts and manage your money more effectively in the future. A debt negotiator, however, is someone who charges a fee to help you lower your debt by negotiating with your creditors to lower interest rates, waive penalties and find easier ways to pay off the debt.

If you are thinking about using one of these services, don’t let the word non-profit confuse you. Even though some of these companies or organizations may identify themselves as being a non-profit, it does not mean that they are legitimate, nor does it mean that their services will be free or low cost.

Before you hire one of these services, check out their reputation with state and federal consumer protection offices. Also, consider working with a local service that will work with you face to face. Also, ask for written information about the qualifications of the counselor, what services are being offered and at what cost, how you will be kept informed, and how your private information will be protected.

You might also want to check with your creditors to see what you can do on your own, and whether or not they are willing to work with a debt negotiator.

For more information about how to hire a credit counselor or debt negotiator, contact state and federal consumer protection agencies, and also, contact your bank, housing authority or cooperative extension offices. They may have additional information as well.