Consumer Debt Counselors, Inc. is a nonprofit credit counseling agency that has operated for over 25 years, helping consumers navigate debt and financial challenges. The organization is ISO-9001:2015 accredited, holds an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, and employs HUD-approved housing counselors and bankruptcy certificate-issuing counselors. They position themselves as a comprehensive financial wellness provider rather than a debt settlement or relief company.
The agency offers free and confidential initial consultations with certified counselors covering multiple financial areas: debt relief and management, student loan analysis, housing counseling (pre- and post-purchase), bankruptcy guidance and certification, credit preparation for homeownership, mortgage modification education, Medicare planning, and chronic illness financial strategy. They emphasize personalized approaches through goal alignment, holistic financial assessment, budget development, options exploration, and collaborative planning. Their debt relief services leverage their nonprofit status to negotiate hardship programs with creditors.
Consumer Debt Counselors distinguishes itself through its breadth of services beyond basic debt counseling, including specialized housing and Medicare guidance. Client testimonials highlight counselor professionalism, patience, knowledge, and trustworthiness, with specific praise for named counselors like Porche Alexander and John Sepulveda. One client reported reduction from $600/month interest to $218/month with no interest through their debt management plan. The agency emphasizes education and informed decision-making rather than pushing specific solutions.
As a legitimate nonprofit counseling agency, Consumer Debt Counselors is appropriate for consumers seeking educational guidance and debt management strategies at no cost. However, the website content does not detail specific debt reduction percentages, timelines, or success rates beyond individual testimonials. Their bankruptcy guidance appears limited to education and referrals rather than direct legal representation. Consumers should confirm current accreditations and service availability before engaging.
When evaluating options, consumers should compare debt consolidation loans, which combine multiple debts into a single fixed-rate payment. Credit counseling through nonprofit agencies offers free budgeting help. For those whose credit has been damaged, credit repair services can address inaccurate negative items. Nonprofit counselors can help consumers evaluate whether an installment loan for debt consolidation makes sense given their income and existing obligations.
