Whether or not you own a company in the consumer credit industry, you would do well to partner with a consumer credit counseling organization to strengthen your expertise and credibility. Additionally, you can seek out consumer credit organizations as a consumer, to get help with financial planning and debt management. Industry organizations bring together professionals and/or individuals with similar goals and challenges.

Becoming a member of the right consumer credit group opens the door to a wealth of expertise. You will be exposed to many networking opportunities, information and resources. Additionally, consumer credit counseling organizations may also provide invaluable services that include new products, education opportunities and support. If you work in credit counseling and are looking for membership with a professional consumer credit counseling association, remember the following:

1. Make sure the consumer credit council you're interested in is credible. Check Better Business Bureau or other industry accreditations.

2. Most organizations charge fees for memberships, so make sure you’re getting your money’s worth before you pay.

3. Many consumer or business credit organizations don’t stipulate membership for certification.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Become a member of an accredited consumer credit group for counseling professionals

Although many organizations offer information, tools and resources to non-members, you can benefit substantially from becoming a member. Membership opens the door to additional services, products and representation. Register as a business rather than as just an individual, if possible, so your employees can benefit from the membership.

I recommend: The American Association of Debt Management Organizations and the Association of Independent Consumer Credit Counseling Agencies both provide a extensive list of benefits to members, including discounts on education programs and new products and services.

Pick a consumer credit association with online resources and tools you can use

Consumers should choose an organization that offers online access to tools and resources. Many organizations offer newsletters containing up-to-date news on laws and business practices that affect consumer. Additionally, you'll have access to financial tools and credit counseling.

I recommend: Consumer Credit Counseling Service offers eCommunities for consumers to share knowledge or discuss questions and concerns regarding financial issues. Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Central Florida & The Florida Gulf Coast maintains a forum filled with resources, including financial tools to calculate payments and costs associated to budget, auto, and home finances.

Take advantage of consumer training opportunities provided by consumer credit assistance services

As a consumer, you can improve your knowledge in areas such as budgeting, avoiding scams, and credit reports and scores, but taking advantage of educational resources. Many organizations offer information on upcoming seminars, workshops, development courses and other industry-related programs.

I recommend: National Foundation for Credit Counseling offers community classes and workshops as part of its financial educational program. Money Management International provides workshops to assist consumers in their journey toward financial freedom.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Networking is a great business tool. If you're a credit counseling professional, make sure you're stocked with business cards so you can market your organization at a consumer credit council event .