Depending on your debt, and the credit granting standards of each individual creditor, you’re probably looking at a different resolution for each problem.  Some creditors look at longer histories, while others look at shorter time periods of your ability to pay.  In some cases it’s probably worth contacting your creditor to discuss the situation.  Sometimes it’s not though.  So where do you turn?

You’ve probably heard the commercials on TV, or the radio spots on your favorite rock ‘n roll station.  And if you’re searching on the Internet, you’ve definitely seen the advertisements for credit repair solutions.

“Erase your credit forever – 100% guarantee.”  “Legally change your credit identity – get out of debt now!”

Don’t believe these sales gimmicks.  There’s no quick fix for getting your credit cleaned up, but that doesn’t mean that it’s impossible either.  It can be done with some hard work and patience. Maybe you don’t want to tackle it yourself though.  We understand that credit problems can be daunting, frustrating, or even downright scary.  There are free credit counseling services out there.

The US Department of housing and urban development – www.hud.gov, offers information on approved housing counseling agencies, that can offer guidance on all aspects of home buying, preventing foreclosure, renting, and even reverse mortgages.

Another organization offering free credit counseling services is NeighborWorks America.  Since 1978, this organization has been improving communities through their efforts.  It’s located in select cities, and offers residents financial counseling at no cost.

A third organization offering free nonprofit counseling services is CCCS.  They’ve been offering free credit counseling services for over 40 years.  Certified counselors are available to answer your credit questions.

Remember if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.  If you hear an ad for a free credit counseling service that offers to remove that bad credit for you in a hurry, run the other way.  They are probably out for one thing, and that’s your Money.