Does it seem like you are living from payday to payday, and just barely at that? You know that budgeting is a good idea, but there’s not even enough money in the month to cover the basics. And retirement? Ha! Not at this rate of pay. If this describes your current situation, you are probably a good candidate for a consumer credit counseling service. In most cases, these organizations were created specifically to help people like you find their way out of financial crises.

The best consumer credit counseling services give you advice on money and debt management. They offer training in the budgeting process and provide workshops and free educational materials. Counselors who work there have been trained in creating budgets and are well-versed in the subjects of consumer credit and money management. The process starts with a discussion of your current financial situation. Then you and the counselor put together a personalized road map designed to help you navigate your way to a better financial future. The first counseling session will probably last about sixty minutes. Depending on your finances, there may be follow-up sessions.

Beware of any credit counseling service that asks for your details up front. They should be willing to give you information about their services without any cost or obligation. Any firm that won’t do that should be avoided.

If your finances are in really bad shape, it may seem like a waste of time to research several counseling agencies. But you should put some effort into finding out more about the firms with whom you may work. Your local Better Business Bureau and your state Attorney General’s office should have records of any complaints filed. Keep in mind that the absence of complaints doesn’t necessarily mean that firms are recommended.

Not all credit counseling organizations are reputable. If they start pushing a plan before analyzing your situation, you may want to look elsewhere. Services that charge for information are not working in your best interest. Any time a service says they cannot help at all unless you pay something, walk out as soon as possible.

What should you look for? The most helpful organizations are able to offer a full range of services, like classes in debt management, educational sessions on savings and one-on-one budget counseling. Education materials should be provided at no cost. Other services may have a fee associated with them, but the charges should be specific, published and shown before you commit to anything.

Look for certification or accreditation by an external organization. This will help ensure that you are dealing with trained counselors. Avoid services where credit counselors receive commissions when you sign up for certain services. This situation may cause the counselor to recommend a certain action, even when it is not in your best interest. Finally, do not rely on verbal promises. In a perfect world it would be great to trust someone’s word. Unfortunately, in the world we find ourselves you need to get everything in writing. And read it before you sign.