Website Offers Tips on Getting out of Debt

With the holiday gift-giving season upon us, it can be easy to get into debt or fall deeper into debt.

As part of its public education campaign called “Help for Difficult Times” the federal government is reminding Big Island residents that there are a variety of resources to help you and your family cope with financial challenges.

The website www.usa.gov offers an entire section on Debt and Credit that includes links to credit counseling agencies that are approved by the Department of Justice.

Credit counseling services can help you negotiate better terms with your creditors and provide guides on how to budget your money.

In addition to links to credit counseling agencies the Credit Counseling section of the site provides resources on credit scores, obtaining a free credit report, and tips from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) on being a smart financial consumer.

The government website also offers a section on consolidating debt that includes info on choosing a credit counselor, your consumer rights, a credit protection laws handbook, and a must-do list for people on a debt-management plan.

The FTC website Money Matters provides information on budgeting, credit card scams, dealing with debt, and managing your money.

The “Help for Difficult Times” campaign also includes information on finding a job, assistance with your mortgage, and getting health insurance.