Consumer credit counseling services (CCCS) agencies provide financial and debt-relief information in one-on-one counseling sessions, and in online services. Credit counseling agencies help persons of all income levels (1) eliminate late fees and over-limit charges; (2) stop collection calls; (3) lower interest rates (regardless of credit score); (4) consolidate bills into one smaller monthly payment; (5) pay off debt faster; and (6) improve spending, budgeting, and money management skills.

CCCS often include issues such as (1) debt collection management; (2) credit and debt counseling; (3) bankruptcy; (4) credit reports and credit scores; and (5) reverse mortgages.

CCCS agencies are Internal Revenue Service 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that will help you find a workable solution to financial problems—usually free of charge.

In Idaho, Consumer Credit Counseling Services (CCCS) agencies are available to assist individuals with financial and debt-related issues. These agencies are typically nonprofit organizations with a 501(c)(3) status, recognized by the Internal Revenue Service, which means they are often able to provide services at little or no cost to the consumer. CCCS agencies offer a range of services including debt management plans, credit and debt counseling, assistance with bankruptcy processes, guidance on understanding credit reports and credit scores, and advice on reverse mortgages. They aim to help consumers reduce or eliminate fees, lower interest rates, consolidate payments, and improve financial management skills. While these agencies provide valuable services, it is important for consumers to ensure that they are working with a reputable organization. In Idaho, as in other states, these agencies must comply with both federal laws and state statutes that regulate credit counseling services, such as the Credit Repair Organizations Act (CROA) at the federal level, which requires disclosure and prohibits deceptive practices, and any applicable state laws that govern credit counseling and debt management services.