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 Wisconsin, Consumer Credit Counseling Services (CCCS) are regulated under state law and must comply with both state statutes and federal law. These agencies provide a range of services to help individuals manage their debt and improve their financial literacy. Services include helping to reduce or eliminate fees, stop collection calls, lower interest rates, consolidate payments, and provide education on budgeting and money management. CCCS agencies address issues such as debt collection management, credit and debt counseling, bankruptcy counseling, understanding credit reports and scores, and guidance on reverse mortgages. As 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, they often offer their services for free or at a low cost. Wisconsin residents seeking assistance from CCCS agencies should ensure that the agency is properly registered and compliant with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions, which oversees such entities to protect consumers from fraudulent or abusive practices.