You've made the decision to seek the advice and assistance from a credit counselling agency and look to finally be able to repay all of your outstanding debts, and reduce your interest rates at the same time. That is the first step of getting back on the right financial path as these credit counselling agencies will work with you and your specific creditors to create a plan that makes it possible for you to make one monthly payment, and over time be free of all of your debts. Their further advice, services, and eduction in budgeting, money management, spending habits, and debt education can further help you avoid falling victim to too much debt in the future.

So just what do you need to look for when choosing a credit counseling agency that is best for you?

Sadly, in Canada, there isn't an enforced set of rules, laws, or guidelines that credit counseling agencies must adhere to. That is why it is imperative for you to take your own best interest in hand and make sure that any credit counselling agency that you approach is accredited and honest. However, a great place to begin your search is the CACCS, which has a code of ethics and practice standards that must be met before giving their seal of approval.

Check if your intended Credit Counseling Agency is a member of the OACCS, and if they are you can be assured that they are of just nature. If you are not under the umbrella of the OACCS, you'll want to read all of the fine print from any credit counseling agency with fees being of prime concern.

There may be set-up fees and other monthly charges, but they should not be over $75 for a set-up fee or more than $40 a month for a service charge. Inquire about any fees listed and get an explanation from the credit counseling agency. You will also want to do a bit of a background check on any credit counseling agency to see if they are flagged or have any complaints. Do this by going to your local Better Business Bureau's site and reading up on them.

Finally, here a few considerations to remember when speaking with any of these credit counseling agencies:

- Many agents will offer information free of charge and with no promises of using their services. If they ask for any of your personal or account information, that should constitute a red flag.

- Also beware of anyone promising to get you out of debt quickly, easily, and without much planning. This is simply an impossibility, for if getting out of debt were that easy you would have done so by yourself!

Finally, there are many reputable and helpful credit counseling agencies willing to give you the time you deserve and allow you subsequent time to reach your own decision. Don't let anyone rush you along without giving you the personal attention you deserve. It is in working together with one of the many accredited credit card counseling agencies that you can finally rise out from debt.