* How much does it cost? Many less-than-reputable services charge hundreds of dollars to start up, money that doesn't go to any of your creditors.

* Does service notify credit bureaus about your enrollment in their program? Some do and some don't. Creditors may still elect to put a bad mark on your credit report, but agency you are looking at for debt relief shouldn't.

* What services are offered? Do they offer a range of solutions from trouble-shooting before finances are a big problem to debt management. Beware of companies promising too quick a solution or promising to "fix" your credit report.

* What are benefits of belonging to one particular group over another? For example, some services offer newsletters and budgeting tips, all to help you become more stable when your debt is paid off.

* Are they a member of Better Business Bureau? If that is not advertised, check them out with BBB first.

With time, patience and diligence, you can become debt free.

* Income per Month (Varies with creditors) -$800.00 = 1 point -$100.00 = 2 points -$1500.00 = 3 points -$1800+ = 4 points

* Current Debt per Month -0 - $300.00 = 1 point -$301.00 - $500.00 = 2 points -$500 or more = 3 points

* Previous Credit -A loan in good standing with agency you are now applying with = 4-5 points -A loan in good standing with any other agency = 2-3 points

* Savings or Checking Account Information $500.00 in a checking or saving that has been open for 6 months or more = 2 points

* Having a phone in your name is worth another 2 points.

When you add these up you should have anywhere from fifteen to twenty points in order to secure a loan. If one creditor turns you down, keep trying. Each creditor has a unique set of guidelines they use to determine whether or not a loan is given. If you need to boost your credit score, try getting a loan using a co-signer or a secured loan and pay it back before it is due, or apply for a credit card.