If you’re struggling to pay your bills there are people who can help you. You can get loans, borrow from friends or family, or sell things. You may choose to give up some of your favorite activities such as swimming, running, eating out. While  these activities especially swimming reduce stress, you may feel you can no longer afford them. Another way – and one of the best options – is to go through credit counseling. When you visit a credit counselor, you’ll be asked questions about your financial situation and you’ll be able to find out what he can do to help you get your financial life straightened out. A counselor can also work with your creditors, so that you aren’t paying out as much and your interest rates are lower. With lower rates, you’ll be able to pay less and still see your debt reduced each and every month.

A credit counselor can’t salvage your credit report, erase negative items that are legitimate, or get your debt wiped out. Only bankruptcy can wipe out debt, and that will destroy your credit for several years. Don’t let yourself go bankrupt, and don’t feel like you have to deal with calls and other forms of harassment from debt collectors. Instead, take yourself down to a credit counseling agency and start asking questions about what can be done in your situation. Depending on what you owe, to what companies, and what kinds of repayment terms you have, you may get minimal relief or a big change in your monthly payments.

You’ll pay the counseling agency each month, and then the agency will pay your creditors. That way you’re sure that the payments are getting there and you only have to make one payment. It can seem like you’re paying out a lot less when you have one payment instead of several. Ask about what kinds of fees and charges you’ll have to pay, as well. Some counseling agencies charge less than others charge, so be sure to find that out before you agree to let an agency help you.