Nonprofit credit counseling
Credit counseling organizations are usually nonprofits, and their counselors are trained in consumer credit, money and debt management, and budgeting.[1] Nonprofit organizations in every state offer credit counseling that is often free or low cost.[2]
Where to start
The CFPB suggests starting with the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) or the Financial Counseling Association of America (FCAA), or checking the U.S. Department of Justice's list of approved credit counselors (agencies approved for the counseling required before bankruptcy).[1] The NFCC's website connects you with its member agencies.[3] You can also check with your state attorney general and state consumer protection agency that an organization is reputable.[1]
- National Foundation for Credit Counseling[3]
- Financial Counseling Association of America[4]
- U.S. Department of Justice: approved credit counseling agencies (bankruptcy)[5]
Warning signs
"Nonprofit" does not guarantee that a service is free, affordable or even legitimate. The FTC warns that some credit counseling organizations charge high fees, which they may hide, or push clients to make "voluntary" contributions.[6] The CFPB's red flags:[1]
- It will not send you free information about its services without first getting details about your situation.
- It pushes a debt management plan as your only option before spending real time on your finances.
- It charges for information.
- It will not help you because you cannot afford to pay.
Sources
Each source was checked on 2026-10-05. Rules and amounts change; the official page is the one to rely on.
- CFPB: What is credit counseling?
- FTC: What to know about advance-fee loans
- National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC)
- Financial Counseling Association of America (FCAA)
- U.S. Department of Justice, U.S. Trustee Program: Credit counseling and debtor education information
- FTC: Choosing a Credit Counselor (PDF)