If you’re feeling overwhelmed by debt and not sure where to start, credit counseling could be the right first step. Based on extensive research, Apprisen stands out as the best all-around credit counseling service.
It offers low fees, a wide range of support options, and strong customer reviews. Plus, they provide a free initial consultation and even offer reduced or waived fees for those experiencing financial hardship.
To create this list, Investopedia’s research and editorial teams independently analyzed 17 nonprofit credit counseling agencies, reviewing over 50 different factors — including cost, services, accreditations, customer feedback, and more.
The credit counseling services highlighted below are well-established, reasonably priced, and designed to help anyone struggling with debt get back on their feet.
Top Credit Counseling Services for July 2025
Best Overall: Apprisen
Why It’s the Top Pick:
With roots going back to 1955, Apprisen is one of the most experienced credit counseling agencies in the U.S. It’s available nationwide and offers a comprehensive mix of financial support services — from debt management to housing and student loan counseling.
- Affordable DMP Fees: Debt management plan (DMP) fees are typically lower than most competitors. Enrollment fees go up to $45, but may be lowered or waived for people facing financial hardship.
- Free Consultation: Clients begin with a no-cost session to evaluate their financial situation.
- High Trust Ratings: Apprisen has an impressive 4.9/5 on the Better Business Bureau and a 97% rating on Charity Navigator for accountability and impact.
- Accreditations: Apprisen is certified by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC), Council on Accreditation (COA), and HUD (for housing counseling).
- Headquarters: Gahanna, Ohio
Best for Bankruptcy & Housing Counseling: Cambridge Credit Counseling Corp.
Why It Stands Out:
While most credit counseling agencies offer DMPs and basic financial guidance, Cambridge goes a step further with deep expertise in bankruptcy and housing-related services.
- Specialized Services: Provides reverse mortgage counseling, foreclosure support (in select states), and landlord/homebuyer courses.
- Bankruptcy Counseling: Offers both the pre-filing and post-filing education required for bankruptcy cases.
- Highly Rated: Earns a 4.9-star score on Trustpilot.
- HUD-Approved: Licensed to provide housing-related support.
- Location: Agawam, Massachusetts
Note: Some services, like foreclosure help, are only available in Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New York.
Most Accredited: InCharge Debt Solutions
Why It’s a Great Choice:
InCharge has supported over three million people in paying off a combined $3 billion in debt. What sets it apart is the impressive number of professional certifications and recognitions.
- Top Accreditations:
- NFCC, FCAA, COA
- HUD-approved
- NBRI Circle of Excellence for outstanding customer service
- Strong Reputation: Trustpilot rating of 4.7 with thousands of reviews.
- Wide-Ranging Services: Offers housing help, foreclosure prevention, and bankruptcy education.
- Drawback: Doesn’t assist with IRS or back taxes.
- Location: Orlando, Florida
Most Established: Money Management International (MMI)
Why It’s a Reliable Option:
Founded in 1958, MMI is one of the oldest and most experienced credit counseling agencies in the U.S.
- 24/7 Support: Offers help around the clock.
- Educational Tools: Provides both online and in-person workshops on budgeting, homebuying, and debt recovery.
- Transparent Fees: Maximum DMP fee up to $59/month, based on income and hardship.
- Customer Ratings: 4.9/5 on BBB and 4.6/5 on Trustpilot.
- Charity Navigator Score: 96% for accountability and transparency.
- Location: Stafford, Texas
Best for Online Tools: American Consumer Credit Counseling (ACCC)
Why It’s Ideal for Self-Starters:
ACCC offers a range of tools to help you stay informed and in control of your finances, even outside of one-on-one counseling.
- CreditU App: This mobile app allows users to manage budgets, sync bank accounts, track credit health, and monitor debt management plans.
- Flexible Use: You don’t need to be a client to use the free version of CreditU; premium version is $12.99/month.
- Strong Reviews: 96% score on Charity Navigator; 4.4 stars on Apple’s App Store.
- Location: National reach, with online and phone-based counseling.
How Credit Counseling Works
When debt becomes overwhelming, a certified credit counselor can guide you through the process of regaining control. Here’s what typically happens:
- Free Consultation: You meet with a counselor (usually for free) who reviews your income, expenses, credit report, and debts.
- Debt Management Plan (DMP): If needed, the counselor develops a plan to consolidate your monthly debts into one payment. They may negotiate better terms with your creditors.
- Execution: You pay one monthly amount to the agency, which then distributes the payments to your creditors.
- Support: The counselor may provide budgeting advice or recommend bankruptcy if your debt is unmanageable.
Note: Using a credit counseling agency might slightly lower your credit score. However, it’s often a better option than debt settlement or bankruptcy.
Key Credit Counseling Terms to Know
- Credit Counselor: A financial expert trained to help people manage and repay debt.
- Debt Management Plan (DMP): A structured repayment plan that consolidates debts into one monthly payment.
- Credit Report: A detailed summary of your credit history, including debts, accounts, and any negative records.
- Credit Score: A number used by lenders to determine your creditworthiness.
- Consolidation: Combining multiple debts into one payment — often done through a DMP to simplify finances.
Pros and Cons of Credit Counseling
Pros:
- Professional Help: Expert guidance to manage and reduce debt.
- Simplified Payments: Combine multiple debts into one monthly payment.
- Lower Rates: Potential for reduced interest and waived fees.
Cons:
- Temporary Credit Score Drop: Enrolling in a DMP may lower your credit.
- Loss of Credit Access: You may have to close some credit accounts.
- Fees May Apply: Some services may charge monthly or setup fees — always ask about costs.
How We Chose These Services
Investopedia’s team evaluated 40 debt relief companies and selected the 17 most effective nonprofit credit counseling services. Companies were ranked using 53 unique criteria, weighted as follows:
- Costs & Fees: 37%
- Availability: 19.5%
- Reputation & Stability: 18.5%
- Services Offered: 16%
- Customer Experience: 9%
The research spanned from October to December 2023 and included over 2,000 data points, offering a reliable, data-driven view into the best credit counseling options available today.
Bottom Line:
If you’re in debt and unsure where to begin, credit counseling offers a safe, affordable, and nonjudgmental path forward. Whether you want in-depth support, educational tools, or help with housing and bankruptcy, one of these top-rated agencies can help you get back on track.
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