Thinking about a debt consolidation loan?

If your financial problems stem from too much debt or your inability to repay your debts, a credit counseling agency may recommend that you enroll in a debt management plan (DMP). A DMP alone is not credit counseling, and DMPs are not for everyone. You should sign up for one of these plans only after a certified credit counselor has spent time thoroughly reviewing your financial situation, and has offered you customized advice on managing your money. Even if a DMP is appropriate for you, a reputable credit counseling organization still can help you create a budget and teach you money management skills.

The best advice is to compare different loan programs to find the one that's best for you. Keep an eye on the fees. Take notes, and compare, compare and compare again. Then you'll make a smart decision.