The Importance Of Credit Counseling Louisiana

By Sarah Foster


Most people owe money in the form of bank loans, mortgages and credit card debt. How you settle your debts can impact your credit scores enormously. If your scores are low, you will experience difficulties as you try to get a new credit card, obtain a loan or rent an apartment. If you are in this kind of situation, hiring a debt counselor, also known as a credit counselor is essential. If they consult with a professional who offers credit counseling Louisiana residents will enjoy diverse benefits.

The counseling process involves a one on one consultation with a knowledgeable counselor who can help you to solve your financial complications. He or she can help you to get a full financial picture of your income, expenses and assets. In addition, the counselor can help you to start repaying the money you owe such as by enrolling in a debt management program.

If you choose to participate in a debt management plan, you will consolidate all your payments to creditors and then make a single monthly payment to the company that offers debt consolidation services. In turn, the company will pay your creditors and seek reductions in fees, interest rates and over limit charges. The debt consolidation firm will handle all the details, including paying your creditors regularly.

A counselor can also inform you if it is financially viable for you to get a mortgage. This might save you from bankruptcy. Usually, for people who are sixty years and above, debt counselors can recommend a reverse mortgage, which allows them to acquire loans against the equity in their homes.

A debt counselor may also provide you with helpful educational materials that will enable you to manage your finances better. If you do not have an idea about how you spend your money, it is easy to get into debt. A debt counselor can assist you to determine the damage that has already occurred and find a solution for it.

If you often make many of your debt payments late, it is wise to consult with a debt counselor. Paying a high APR on credit card debt is not advisable. Late payments diminish your chances to pay your debts back. Your counselor can guide you on the steps to take to ensure timely payment of your debts.

Another reason to consult with a debt counselor is if you are unable to save money each pay cycle. If your monthly expenses are exceeding your earnings because of settling debts, know that if an unexpected expense emerges, it could destabilize your finances. Your counselor will help you to come up with a budget so that you can save money, which can come in handy in the event of an emergency.

Consulting with a debt counselor is also essential if you plan to file for bankruptcy. He or she will advise you on the pros and cons of this decision. When you seek credit counseling before filing for bankruptcy, you can also learn about other alternatives on how to deal with the debt before you declare yourself bankrupt. At this point, you will be informed on whether to continue with your plan or not.




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