Financial Assistance

I was in a waiting area the other day watching the flat screen that they had hanging at a peculiar angle up on the wall. You know the kind I'm talking about? It's the kind of angle that makes your neck hurt just enough to notice, but not so bad that you quit watching? Anyway, there was an advertisement for a company called CCCS (Consumer Credit Counseling Service). I instantly recognized the initials and remembered the companies purpose. Let me explain.

About 11 years ago I had acquired some debt that I was finding a bit hard to pay off. I know, I know - that's rare today, right? ;) Someone had referred me to CCCS and said that they could help me pay of the debt over a period of time while setting me up on a payment plan that met my budget. It sounded great. I went. It was true. They did a fantastic job. I met with a counselor at no charge to me. This person assessed my situation and then gave me 2 or 3 options to choose from. I opted for one over the other and ended up paying off my debt. End of story? No! Well, it's the end of my story, but not this blog.

When I saw the advertisement on the odd angled flatscreen I assumed that CCCS was still one dimensional. In other words, I assumed that they still did basic debt management and assistance. I was wrong. They have branched out into money management, educational assistance for budgeting and so forth, and they've also made the move into the industry of bankruptcies. What do I mean?

Under the heading Bankruptcy Services you will find some useful information about the things that should happen before a bankruptcy is final. For instance, on their webpage it says, "The Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005 mandates that consumers receive financial counseling with an approved agency prior to their bankruptcy petition being filed. Further, the law requires consumers to participate in a financial education course before their debts can be discharged." I didn't know this. And seeing as how I'm in the real estate profession, this is very useful information. From time to time I run into very nice folks who either have a bankruptcy on their credit or they are a past client who is currently about to file chapter 11 or 13. I am contacted for advice. Can you see how this would be helpful?

CCCS offers 2 courses for folks dealing with bankruptcy:

Pre-filing Bankruptcy Counseling
Pre-discharge Bankruptcy Education

These courses are offered in 3 ways - over the phone, face-to-face, or online. That's incredible.

Here is their quote about the cost:

The fee for each course, including materials, is $50. However, we do not refuse service to anyone based on their inability to pay. If you feel that the fee is a hardship, please discuss this with your counselor. The required certificates will be issued at the conclusion of each course.

I have to tell you that I am thoroughly impressed. This is a great service and one that I am going to keep in mind for any past or future clients.

If you are someone who has, or is, dealing with a bankruptcy issue it may do you well to check out their website at http://www.cccs.net/index.asp.

Have a super day!

Dustin Curlee
www.4frontrealty.com