Q: Are there any upfront fees?
A: No. Our counseling is free and without obligation or requirement to enter into a Debt Management Plan.
Q: How do you help me?
A: Our process starts by having you fill out a form. We ask for personal information such as your monthly income and living expenses. You also tell us who your creditors are and how much you owe them. We will set up a time to review this information with you either on the phone or in person. During that time, we help you establish a budget and review your debts. If you are having difficulty or foresee having difficulty paying off your debts, we help you set up a Debt Management Plan. The plan helps you get lower payments and interest rates with many of your creditors. Sometimes finance charges are totally eliminated. Normally, within 3 payments, (or less) late and over the limit fees will be stopped. You can become debt free much quicker with reduced or stopped finance charges and fees eliminated. Remember, our counseling is free and without further obligation. Our service may not be available in all states.
Q: What fees are associated with a Debt Management Plan?
A: There is a monthly fee associated with a Debt Management Plan. Our fees are variable, based on a number of factors, and range from $0 to $35 each month. We also ask for a one time deposit of up to $75 when you initially enter a Debt Management Plan. You will generally find that, not only do the savings you experience cover our modest monthly fees, but you also have large cost savings, often thousands of dollars in a single year! Our counselors will estimate how much you would save by participating in a Debt Management Plan for you. Beware of agencies that require you to make a full payment up front as a fee or that have gimmicky promises of rebates. Our fees and deposits may vary depending on the state that you live in.
Q: What makes you qualified to help me and how long have you been in business?
A: Since we opened our office in October 1993, we have helped thousands of people from all walks of life get their finances under control by setting up budgets and repayment plans. We are bonded and licensed by the state of Iowa. We are members of the Better Business Bureau.
Q: Is there a minimum amount of debt I must have to work with you?
A: No. There is no minimum amount required. We are here to help if you feel you need budget and/or debt management assistance.
Q: How do I know you are really paying my bills?
A: We send out monthly statements to our clients, so that they can keep up with how much we send to each creditor. Clients will also continue to receive statements directly from their creditors. The creditor statements should be checked to make sure that payments are properly credited and that concessions are granted.
Q: How long will it take to pay off my debt?
A: Usually 3 to 5 years. However, depending on the concessions that your particular creditors offer, it could vary.
Do you have a question we did not answer? Feel free to email your question to us.
