“Dear Steve,
During college I moved out with a friend, which went sour and I end up owing about $1,200 when I had to move out because she didn’t pay.
Then my father, who had promised to help me with school went on disability and I couldn’t afford my apt and bills.
After this I decided to continue on with school and when they raised the rates on my credit cards I had to stop paying. Of course when school ended I didn’t have the job I thought I would.
I’ve paid a couple of debts through collection agencies and I’m rehabilitating my school loan but I still have some small accounts out there and occasionally get collection calls. I’m probably about $15,000 in debt. I don’t blame anyone for my situation and I’d like to take care of it.
I know about all the collection counselors and how DMP’s are pretty bad. Going through my credit report is more anxiety inducing than most things I can think of. I know there are a ton of great free resources on this site but I’d like to find someone in Chicago that would go through my report for a small fee, tell me what to pay off first and what my next steps should be.
Is there anything like that? It seems the credit counselors have an alternate agenda.
David”
Dear David,
Do You Have a Question You'd Like Help With? Contact Debt Coach Damon Day. Click here to reach Damon.
It sounds like you are dealing with the situation the best you can. I completely understand the anxiousness you are experiencing when you try to face the situation. It’s a natural response.
I’d suggest you talk to independent debt coach
Ultimately the best plan of attack here is one that is based on your goals and resources, rather than just trying to sell whatever program a debt relief provider is pushing.
Like most every professional, there is a charge for a consultation with
I used to do individual consultations but I just don’t have time these days with all the reader questions.
Please post your responses and follow-up messages to me on this in the comments section below.
