Online Debt Advice

Annual Credit Report

Before you begin working on your debt, you need to get a grasp on where you stand by taking a good look at your credit report. The Annual Credit Report website is set up through the three major credit bureaus -- Experian, Equifax and TransUnion -- and is the only credit reporting website recognized by the Federal Trade Commission. Each year, you are entitled to a complimentary credit report from each of the credit bureaus. Once you receive your credit reports, you will have a foundation on which to base your decisions for getting out of debt.

The Federal Trade Commission's website provides articles and resources to help people get out of debt legally and safely. Their article database includes information on debt consolidation, budgeting, credit counseling and bankruptcy. The articles also point out potential pitfalls and scams so that you may avoid being taken advantage of and falling further into debt. In particular, "Knee Deep in Debt" provides information on the options available for freeing yourself from debt, while weighing the pros and cons of each.

Bankrate provides a wealth of useful information on overcoming debt, budget creation and general finance management. The website is successful in breaking down complicated processes into manageable language so that you see each option from all sides. Whether you want to know how to negotiate lower interest rates on your credit card, get statistics on the success rate of consolidation loans or thoroughly understand the different methodologies for digging yourself out of debt, Bankrate has an article to answer your questions.

With the massive quantities of misinformation circulating about debt relief, it's important to find a reputable credit counseling company if you need professional help to get out of debt. The National Foundation for Credit Counseling provides a list of companies that offer their services through phone, online and in-person consultations.