Q - Why in the world would I need a financial counselor?
 Great question!  You may not NEED one, but it might just help. Maybe you just need some assistance with putting together a realistic budget, or some help figuring out where all the money goes each month.  What we offer is a level of detailed, objective analysis & counseling tailored to your specific situation. We will work with you to develop a workable and realistic plan to help you achieve your financial goals.  Our goal is not that you will need our services for months or years with no end in sight.  Instead, we want to allow you an opportunity to learn first hand how to be, and stay, in control of your financial destiny.
 
Others reading this might NEED a financial counselor, because you are in such a mess financially and you are feeling like there is no light at the end of the tunnel. Maybe you have creditors calling you at home and/or work and you really have no idea what to do.  We know how you feel!  Above all, there is a way out.  It may not be easy, but it will work, if you work it.  You don’t have to go through this alone!  We will walk with you each step of the way and help you develop some HOPE for your financial future! 

Q - Wait a minute!  I am broke!  How in the world am I supposed to afford this?

  Financial counseling gives you a high level of detail and individual attention.  As you move down the line from reading a book, to attending a workshop, to financial counseling, the increasing cost reflects the increasing scope of resources & one-on-one attention devoted to you and your particular situation.  Although financial counseling can at first seem expensive, for some it is a necessity.  For others, however, it is a luxury. You will have to decide where to draw the line. 

If counseling IS a necessity for your situation, then you also have to compare it to the costs of bankruptcy which can be $500-$2,000 in legal fees alone!  Or, consider the cost of credit counseling, which at $30-$50 per month for 4 years would cost around $2,000.  Our fees are a bargain compared to these alternatives!  Also, with us you will have a plan to change your financial future, and change your family tree!  Many couples find that by addressing their financial situation, the stress on their marriage is reduced.  With a 50% divorce rate, and money issues listed as one of the top contributing factors, what might that be worth? Bottom line, can you afford not to?
 
Still not convinced?  Then let us put it to you this way.  We are so confident from our own personal experiences, as well as witnessing the change in many other families, that these principles work that we will put our money where our mouth is.  If after the six months of diligently applying these principles and suggestions to your life, the plan does not result in financial improvements of at least two times the fee, you name the appropriate fee and we’ll refund the difference!  Contact us now for a FREE 30 minute consultation!

Q - Why wouldn’t debt consolidation be the best thing to do?

  Debt consolidation is dangerous because you only treat the symptoms of the problem, not the problems that got you into trouble in the first place.  You just move the debt!  Most people take on MORE debt after consolidating or end up in bankruptcy because they didn't change their behavior.  In addition, you will normally pay less towards the principle, which keeps you in debt longer, therefore costing you more money, not to mention the fees charged to you for the “privilege” of consolidating your debt!
 
Q - What about bankruptcy then?

  Bankruptcy is a gut-wrenching, life-changing event that causes long-term damage to your credit as well as your self-esteem.  In other words, AVOID it if at all possible.  Bankruptcy is listed in the top 5 life-altering, negative events that one can go through.  Chapter 7 bankruptcy, total bankruptcy, stays on your credit report for 10 years.  Chapter 13 bankruptcy, more like a payment plan, stays on your credit report for 7 years.  Bankruptcy however, is for life.  Loan applications and many job applications ask if you have EVER filed for bankruptcy.   A common misconception is that you can use credit repair services to fix the damage from filing bankruptcy. If you lie to get a loan because your bankruptcy is very old, technically you have committed criminal fraud.
 
Q - What if my spouse will not come?

  Our policy does require that both spouses attend the session(s).  We have found that working with only half of the marriage partnership does not work.  This must be a team effort. 

Try sitting down with your spouse in a non-distracting environment, and communicating how much you love them and how important it is to you that you are both in agreement on your financial plan. Remember, this is not a time to yell, scream, nag, or try and guilt them into participating.  There probably are some valid reasons why they are hesitant to deal with the situation.

Q - What is the difference between this and a financial class or workshop?
 The main difference is the level of detail.  Financial counseling is our most detailed, and comprehensive program offered.  We will help you develop a plan specific to your situation and help keep you accountable and encouraged to make that plan happen.
 
The other difference is that we don’t sell ANY financial products, investments, or insurance.  That means you can be confident that all of our advice is given objectively with your best interests in mind.

Q - Will the counselor be able to contact creditors for me?

 Yes, the counselor is able to contact creditors if needed and negotiate interest rates, payment plans, and/or settlement amounts.  However, there are never any promises in negotiations.  Each creditor is different and is not required to negotiate.  What we also offer is information for you to educate yourself regarding what is allowed and NOT allowed under Federal law regarding collection practices.

Q - Is my financial information kept confidential? 
ABSOLUTELY!!! Your financial information will ONLY be looked at by you and your counselor, NO ONE ELSE!

Q - So what does this cost anyway?

 Our fee is based on a sliding scale -- we don't charge everyone the same thing because everyone has different needs & goals.  We also take into account life circumstances to tailor your plan, thus your fee (in accordance with the improvement we believe you'll make) so that if you follow our guidance it will more than pay for itself.