Looking for support as you work through your debt problems? Good on you. There are lots of excellent free options out there that can help you along your journey.
But here’s the thing: Many of the tools you need are actually free. In fact, a lot of people end up spending money on budgeting plans, credit reports and other services that are easy to access without getting your wallet involved.
This guide will help you figure out what debt-related services you should never pay for — and what might be worth the cost.
Common Free Personal Finance Tools
If you live in the United States, there are three free services that you need to know (not to pay for):
Credit Reporting
You can check your credit reports from all three bureaus for free weekly through AnnualCreditReport.com. This is the only official, federally-approved credit reporting site, and you don’t need to sign up or pay for access.
Credit Report Error Disputing
Mistakes on your credit report can make your financial situation worse. But fixing them doesn’t require a paid service: You can file disputes with Equifax, Experian and TransUnion directly for free. Each of these credit reporters have an online dispute process — and are required by law to respond to your dispute within a set time period.
Basic Debt Budgeting Help
When tracking your bills or making a simple plan, you don’t need to pay for budgeting tools or templates. Free worksheets, printable trackers and apps are abundant and easily found through nonprofit credit counseling agencies, debt consolidation companies and other for- and non-profit financial service providers.
How to Find Free or Low-Cost Help
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s easy to assume your only option is to pay someone to take over. But these trusted organizations can offer help that costs nothing or very little:
Call 211
United Way’s free service can connect you with local rent support, food programs and financial counseling. Simply call 211 or visit 211.org to learn what’s available in your area.
Contact the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC)
The NFCC is the go-to place to search for nonprofit credit counselors. Many of these organizations offer free debt reviews, budgeting support and financial education.
Explore Legal Aid Services
Facing court notices, wage garnishment or legal threats over your debt? Legal aid may help. These programs offer free legal support to people who qualify based on income. Available support may depend on your location and the organization’s bandwidth, so be sure to ask for help as soon as you think you might need it.
Signs a Paid Service Might Be Worth It
Not everything should be free. There are times when paying for help makes sense — but only if you know what you’re getting. Here’s how to tell if a paid service is worth the money:
Your Debt Is Complicated
If you have a lot of accounts, missed payments or legal threats, opting for a professional debt support service — like debt consolidation — may be the way to go. By choosing a proven, larger organization, you can trust that you’ll be able to access support when you need it.
You’re Struggling Now
If your bills are piling up fast and you don’t have time to research or organize on your own, a structured program may help you act faster.
You Have a Lot to Lose
If your wages are at risk or your debt is too large to handle as it is, the right paid support may help protect your financial wellbeing better than going it alone.
In many of these cases, debt consolidation is often the strongest paid option. It’s designed to help people who need relief from unaffordable monthly payments, and who would benefit from a simplified approach. And what’s more, debt consolidation from Accredited Debt Relief can help you get free from debt in as little as 24-48 months.