Consumer credit counseling services (CCCS) agencies provide financial and debt-relief information in one-on-one counseling sessions, and in online services. Credit counseling agencies help persons of all income levels (1) eliminate late fees and over-limit charges; (2) stop collection calls; (3) lower interest rates (regardless of credit score); (4) consolidate bills into one smaller monthly payment; (5) pay off debt faster; and (6) improve spending, budgeting, and money management skills.
CCCS often include issues such as (1) debt collection management; (2) credit and debt counseling; (3) bankruptcy; (4) credit reports and credit scores; and (5) reverse mortgages.
CCCS agencies are Internal Revenue Service 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that will help you find a workable solution to financial problems—usually free of charge.
In Texas, Consumer Credit Counseling Services (CCCS) are regulated under both federal and state laws. These agencies are typically non-profit organizations that offer assistance to individuals seeking help with debt management, credit counseling, bankruptcy counseling, and financial education. Under the Internal Revenue Code, CCCS agencies that are designated as 501(c)(3) organizations are exempt from federal income tax, and their services are often provided at little or no cost. Texas Finance Code, specifically Chapter 394, also known as the Debt Management and Settlement Services Act, provides additional regulations for credit services organizations, including registration requirements, prohibitions on certain types of fees, and disclosures that must be provided to consumers. These regulations are designed to protect consumers from deceptive practices and ensure that they receive fair and transparent services. Agencies must comply with these laws to operate legally in Texas, and consumers can benefit from the protections and services offered by CCCS agencies to improve their financial situations.
