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 Rhode Island, Consumer Credit Counseling Services (CCCS) agencies are available to assist individuals with various financial and debt-related issues. These agencies are typically nonprofit organizations with 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 one-on-one counseling and online resources to help consumers eliminate fees, stop collection calls, lower interest rates, consolidate bills, pay off debt more quickly, and improve financial management skills. They cover topics such as debt collection management, credit and debt counseling, bankruptcy, understanding credit reports and scores, and reverse mortgages. While these agencies provide valuable services, it is important for consumers to ensure that they are working with a reputable agency. In Rhode Island, as in other states, these agencies must comply with both federal and state regulations designed to protect consumers from deceptive practices. Consumers should verify the accreditation and legitimacy of a credit counseling agency before engaging their services.