Credit cards are a modern convenience. But if mismanaged, credit card debt can become financially debilitating. Once over-extended, a cardholder may begin to miss payment due dates or fail to make payments at all. Personal credit ratings will fall, affecting a person's ability to purchase, borrow, or even obtain a job or bank account. Many people are forced into collections or even bankruptcy, damaging their credit ratings much more severely.

Credit counseling is available to everyone. If credit help is sought early enough, personal credit ratings may experience little or no damage. Even after bankruptcy, credit counseling can help establish more prudent use of credit cards. In any event, credit counseling can help improve your credit ratings. Getting help from a credit counseling service does not adversely affect your credit rating.

There are many non-profit and for profit credit counseling services. Examine their offers and choose one that fits your situation and budget. The techniques offered by both varieties of service are basically the same, although the execution may vary significantly. Education is readily offered. There are simple methods of credit and debt management that are easy to understand and master. The service will show you how to consolidate your debts, and may even finance the consolidated loan.

The general process begins with a full financial disclosure to the counseling service. This will include all your sources of income, all your standard expenses, and all of your outstanding loan information. Your credit report will be accessed and appraised for accuracy. A strategy will be developed that will involve strict budgeting, and even the careful logging of cash flow. Loans with higher interest rates will be targeted for earlier payoff. Loan consolidation may be required and even facilitated. In some cases, forfeiture of property or filing for bankruptcy may be suggested and facilitated. A credit rebuilding plan will be laid out for you.

Always beware of agencies that charge up-front fees or suggest "quick fix" solutions. Check references and compare several services.