Non-profit credit counseling service offering free debt management consultations and personalized repayment plans to help consumers reduce debt and improve creditworthiness.
Editorially reviewed by Harvey Brooks
Consumer Credit Counseling Services (CCCS) operates as a non-profit organization providing free credit counseling through certified counselors. Based on their website at credit.org/cccs, the organization positions itself as a debt management and financial education provider serving consumers struggling with credit card debt and overall financial health.
The company's core service is free initial credit counseling sessions where certified counselors review a client's credit card balances, interest rates, and monthly obligations to identify debt reduction opportunities. Following the initial consultation, CCCS develops personalized debt management plans that may include negotiated lower interest rates, consolidated monthly payments, and structured repayment timelines. They also provide ongoing support through budgeting tools, debt tracking resources, and educational materials to help clients maintain financial stability long-term.
CCCS distinguishes itself through its explicit commitment to free credit counseling (no charge for initial sessions), employment of certified counselors, and a structured four-step process that moves from assessment through analysis to plan creation and ongoing support. The organization emphasizes education and long-term financial mastery rather than quick fixes, offering blog content and resource libraries on credit management topics.
The company's effectiveness depends heavily on clients' commitment to making full, on-time payments on negotiated plans. While they suggest they can "often reduce collection calls and legal action," they explicitly acknowledge this is contingent on payment performance and clarify they cannot provide legal advice. The website contains some conflicting phone numbers (800-431-8157 and 800-431-8695), which may indicate operational or documentation inconsistencies.
Yes. Consumer Credit Counseling Services is a registered company headquartered in 27 N Wittenberg Ave, Springfield, OH 45502. They hold a NR rating with the Better Business Bureau.
CreditDoc Diagnosis
CCCS is best for consumers with manageable debt levels who need expert guidance on budgeting and debt repayment strategy and can commit to full, on-time payments. The primary caveat is that their effectiveness depends entirely on client payment discipline—they cannot force creditors to accept settlements or stop collection efforts without consistent payments, and they explicitly cannot provide legal assistance for clients facing active litigation.
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