Credit Counseling--any positive experiences?

[Chris in VA]

Feel free to pm instead.

I need to find someone who will negotiate with Discover. I was on a hardship plan, paying only 9.9% for two year. Got it down a lot, but now it's up to 24.24%. I actually only paid the minimum payment last month, and it didn't even cover the interest.

I called and asked for more help--I mean, I really, really asked, told them I might settle or switch to another card, etc. I asked to speak to a supervisor and everything. No lowering at the moment.

I thought maybe a CC could help--even if I paid them monthly, it might be worth it and be less than the interest payment, iykwim.

Anyone have a reputable, low-cost or even free service they know of? Everyone says they will give a free consultation, but they all want $ to actually talk to the folks at Discover and lower the rate. (Which is expected, since it's a business, I know--just looking for help)

[Mama Lynx]

I have been told that CCC of Atlanta is reputable and helpful. I have not personally tried them, but they are who I would call.

 

Someone on this forum gave me their personal positive testimony about the help they got from CCC of Atlanta. My brain cells are fried, and I cannot remember who. Hopefully they will see this, and PM you.

[OnTheBrink]

Years ago, we used Consumer Credit Counseling services in Missouri. They completely intervened with Discover and the threatening calls stopped. Those Discover people are e-vile!

 

And, we were able to buy a home within 6 weeks of completing the payment plan with CCCS, so it was a definite positive all the way around.

[Sue G in PA]

Chris, have you tried Dave Ramsey's plan of paying off credit cards/debt? If you don't want to go that route, we had success with CCCS (Consumer Credit Counseling Service). They should have an office local to you in VA. A warning though...it does effect your credit rating negatively if that bothers you at all. If you want some DR strategies for paying it off, let me know and I can help you!