Reaching out for help can be daunting, especially if you’re figuring a way out of debt. And while any trustworthy debt consolidation company will walk you through all the details of their program during your call, this guide is here to help you feel more confident picking up the phone.
What Happens on the First Call
Think of your first call as an introduction to the program. A rep will ask about your finances, go over your monthly spending and learn how you got here. Their goal is to find out if you’re a good fit for a debt consolidation program, and what circumstances may impact your ability to participate.
You’ll usually get a chance to ask questions, learn how much you could save and see what next steps might look like. While you can call any time, your estimate may be more accurate if you have some idea of your finances already. So ask yourself:
What kind of debts do I have? Pay special attention to credit cards, personal loans and medical bills — these are all unsecured debts, and are the most likely candidates for debt consolidation.
How much do I owe in total? Having that real number in front of you can help spur action, too.
How much do I make? Because debt consolidation requires a steady income, it’s important to know your take-home pay after taxes
What are my basic living costs? Account for food, housing and transportation.
What are my goals? Prioritize your short-term needs, like lowering monthly payments or reducing stress.
These questions help them figure out what kind of program you may qualify for. Your math doesn’t have to be perfect, but giving honest, clear answers helps them give you better information.
What You Should Ask
A good consultation works both ways. Not only can you ask questions, you should! You want to make sure the company knows what they’re doing, and that their program fits your life.
Get the details about how much lower your monthly payments could be, how long it’d take to get debt-free in the program, how payments work and if there are any real-world examples that you can refer to.
You don’t have to ask everything on the first call, but getting answers to the big questions will help you decide if you want to move forward.
What Paperwork You Might Need Later
This isn’t an audit, so no need to go searching for every document that relates to your finances. If you move forward with a program, they’ll likely ask for:
- Proof of income, like a pay stub or tax return
- A government-issued ID
- Your address, phone number and email
Most of these personal details are to verify your identity and set up your accounts. If you’re not sure what counts as proof, just ask: They’ll walk you through it.
How to Know You’re Talking to a Trustworthy Company
Some debt consolidation companies are helpful and transparent, while others may push you into a program that works for them, but not for you.
Remember that a trustworthy company will not charge fees before delivering results, as this is illegal. Additionally, they’ll give you clear answers, share their program’s process transparently, have good online reviews and can show that they’re accredited by professional organizations.
Need help checking a company’s record? Look them up first with the Better Business Bureau.
What Happens Next
If you decide to move forward, the company will usually send you a copy of your proposed plan. It will be your responsibility to review the details, timeline, payment and fees. And when you agree, the company will likely help you make the transition into the program, too.
Calling a debt consolidation company means you’re trying to find a way out of debt — in other words, a good step in the right direction. And if high monthly payments or growing balances are making it hard to stay afloat, Accredited Debt Relief might be the best call you make this year.