When financial trouble strikes, many people don’t know where to look for credit counselling, debt consolidation help, and assistance with credit card debt and financial problems not only in Canada, but in their specific communities. However, depending on where someone lives or which community they identify with, sometimes the services aren’t available. There are, however, credit & debt counsellors across Canada at various organizations who are well trained to provide service over the phone. This allows even those in remote or isolated communities to get help with their money and debt problems. Most people are quite surprised how much they can learn from a financial counselling session over the phone and what a tremendous relief it is to get the information, guidance, or referrals they need!

The Benefits of Getting a Financial Assessment from a Non-Profit Credit & Debt Counselling Service in Person or by Phone

In Canada, there are many accredited, non-profit credit counselling organizations who work with people in person or over the phone every day. The benefit of getting a free financial assessment from one of these credit counsellors is that a professional provides you with their expertise and insights. They see all kinds of money situations – from a couple whose values clashed and now they owe tens of thousands of dollars on their line of credit, to a young family trying to make ends meet, or a family still spending and giving according to their pre-covid level of income. In fact, Christi, an experienced credit counsellor took the time to explain step-by-step what to do when you’re facing reduced income because it is one of the main reasons why someone asks for help with their debts.

After gaining an understanding of your situation, the counsellor can help you to create a personal or household budget. And don’t be worried that they will tell you what to do with your money; they won’t. It’s up to you to decide on your priorities. The counsellor will just help you align your budget with your choices.

If you need help with debt relief, consolidation, or have a lot of credit card debt to deal with, they will explain realistic options and solutions to you. Some of these options can include programs that provide interest relief and consolidate credit card and unsecured debt payments into one affordable monthly payment.

Why Get a Thorough Financial Assessment with a Credit Counsellor?

The purpose of consulting with a credit counsellor is so that you can get help and advice from an expert. A thorough financial assessment is important so that they can share their best advice with you. Similar to a plumber, an accountant, or someone to fix your computer – learning from the financial expertise of a credit counsellor will end up saving you valuable time and money.

Professional credit counsellors have technical knowledge that you can harness to resolve your financial problems. It’s a question counsellors often face and Christi answers too, they are dedicated to making sure they give you accurate guidance and real solutions based on your individual circumstances. However, once you’ve met with a counsellor, it’s up to you to go away, think about your options, hopefully discuss your situation with a trusted friend, family member, or mentor, and only then decide what’s best for you.

An accredited credit counsellor will never judge you, your financial beliefs, or the money choices you’ve made. On the contrary, they will try their very best to understand your financial priorities and why they are important to you, treat them with respect, and find a way to work within them.

Telephone, Video, or In-Person Financial Counselling Appointments

Most credit counsellors are available to help either in person or over the phone – whichever is most comfortable or convenient for you. Video or web-based appointments are not the norm for remote or isolated communities where slow internet connections end up disrupting an appointment.

How to Find a Good Financial Counsellor to Help You with Your Debts

To make things easier for you, we’ve put together a list of non-profit credit counselling offices across Canada. Whether you are looking for debt relief plans, credit card consolidation programs, financial help, financial counselling for your budget, or any type of service along these lines, these are organizations known for their outstanding service. Every organization on our list has professionally trained and accredited credit counsellors who are not paid on commission. If they can’t help you, they will refer you to someone who can. They also won’t be offended if you want an appointment with someone else for a second opinion. They are trained and committed to working with individuals and families from all walks of life. When it feels like you’re on a lonely road with only debt by your side, reach out to an organization in your area. You’ll be glad you did.