When money is tight, it can feel as though there’s only one answer. There usually isn’t. Different situations call for different approaches.
Here are five common paths. Some involve free or nonprofit resources; others involve commercial services with costs and risks. Learning the differences helps you ask better questions.
Housing & Mortgage Assistance
For homeowners facing missed payments, hardship, or foreclosure notices. Learn about servicer options and HUD-approved counseling.
Learn about housing help →Credit Counseling & Debt Management
Nonprofit counselors can help review budgets and debt-management plans. A plan may involve fees and may not fit everyone.
Learn about credit counseling →Debt Consolidation & Personal Loans
Combining debts into a new loan may simplify payments, but qualification, rates, fees, and total repayment cost matter.
Learn about debt consolidation →Debt Settlement & Debt-Relief Services
Settlement may reduce some balances, but can involve fees, credit damage, collections, lawsuits, and possible tax consequences.
Learn about debt settlement →Bankruptcy Information & Attorney Consultation
Bankruptcy may offer legal protections or a fresh start in qualifying situations. An attorney can explain eligibility and consequences.
Learn about bankruptcy options →We have not yet added commercial affiliate referrals. They will appear only after review and campaign approval.