Who should I call for Debt Management

I agree with you. Look into a debt management Plan first before debt settlement . There are tons of reputable non-profit consumer credit counseling agencies. You best be is to check the company you are considering doing business with the BBB. See if they are members of at least have a solid track record. Also make sure the counseling company has its 501(c) 3 Non profit business license. Typically if a company does not have this license, they are unable to receive the benefits for their clients. Also make sure the company is " ISO certified???????. ISO stands for International Standardization of Organizations. Recently, most major credit lenders began requiring that credit counseling agencies achieve ISO 9000:2000 certification and satisfy the requirements listed in their Code of Practice in order to receive the benefits they offer.

If you shop around and find that you can't afford debt management plan than look into settlement. Debt Settlement is a hardship program for people overextended and who can`t afford a dmp , can`t afford the minimums and doesn't want file bankruptcy. This should be you last option before bankruptcy.

Thanks for your help! I'm confused about the process of debt management, though. Do I have to work with a credit counseling service or can I contact the creditors myself? I realize sometimes it is impossible to avoid dealing with middlemen in these types of situations but I'd prefer to go this route if at all possible.

You can try your self to get them to lower your aprs but i think you will find them to not be very receptive. A debt management plan is administered by the non-profit counseling agency so yes you would have to go through a counseling agency to get aboard a dmp.