Where do I start?

Glad you're here :) You'll find LOTS of information because the people here are so great. They've already helped me out SO much!

First of all, it's wonderful to hear that you've decided to make a change. Debt creates an ungodly amount of stress and the feeling of relief when you finally have it all under control makes all of the work worth it.

The key word is work. It's not easy and it's going to take effort on your part...maybe even a little bit of pride swallowing is in order when it comes to calling collectors you've been avoiding for so long.

First things first...get ahold of your credit report. I signed up to get all three because sometimes the information can be different depending on the bureau. Is all the information correct? That's the first step. After reading more on this site, you'll get to know the SOL (statute of limitations) rules that can come into play with collections. Make sure companies aren't trying to throw you under the bus for debts that are too old...and believe me...they'll do it if they can!

Take a deep breath and get started :)

Excellent advice and worded so well! Please sign up for the free consultation if you have not already! There is a link to the side. Above is a ranking chart for debt consolidation companies. It has feedback from clients and a star rating chart.

Welcome to our community! Feel free to ask any questions that you may have. Don't be shy!!

Welcome and you will find everyone here is willing to help out in any way they can.

Dave Ramsey has a book that will get you on the path. Financial Peace.

I am also looking for a question answered. I have already taken it upon my self and sent out a Validation letter and asked for them to verify if this is my account of letter I reveived. They sent me back statements from 2006 till now and nothing else I asked for. How do I even know This is mine. Do I send another letter asking about the other things to show that this is my debt or what, I have also asked them to send verification as to wether their company is real or not(and I never received anything on that either) because in the past I have received a debt letter from Merchants' Credit Guide(note the ' above Merchants')stating I owed Citibank over $5000.00 and in fact have already paid Citibank. They are a rip off If any one receives a letter and wants to know more about them I have added the link. http://chipford.com/ripoff/merchants.htm.

I was just wondering if I decide to do this, how long does it stay on your credit report? i have no late payments, but many, MANY credit cards to their max and am living paycheck to paycheck and not making ends meet. I would like to get one payment and maybe some breathing room but don't know if this is the answer or not.

Hi Jabo, I see you found the forum ( I ran into Jabo in the chatroom). If you register on the site you can get a free consultation (button on the right)

I tried to post a response on here about a company that helped me lower my debt called Credit Card Zappers.

Apparently this forum doesn't post competing sites, but I'll try again for the benefit of the people in debt.