2/2/2010 7:49 AM (PST)

Dear Virtually, Are you talking with them about getting connected to a debt settlement program? Christian Debt Counselors appears to operate as a referral agency to various law firms for debt settlement leads so they are not the company you would end up doing business with. These referral arrangements are pay to play deals, meaning that the referring agency receives some sort of consideration by the law firms for their referrals. This is a whole issue in and of itself, but more importantly, if you have read any previous posts here you will know that the experience of the BBB with debt settlement firms has been decidedly negative. Most people who complain about these companies state that their debts weren't negotiated, they were told to stop making payments, and the result is that they're in worse shape than when they started. Many are sued and are forced to file bankruptcy to rid themselves of the lawsuits. Have you tried a nonprofit credit counselor? Check out www.nfcc.org to be connected to a local accredited agency and also check out their "Debt Settlement Consumer Alert". Their national hotline is 800-388-2227. You may also be interested in the proposed rules on fees and disclosures that the FTC is considering for the debt settlement industry. The Federal Trade Commission issued a press release about these on July 30th : http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2009/07/tsr.shtm If I were you I would read the FTC’s guidance and keep it in mind as you evaluate the requirements and promises of any debt settlement company you are considering working with. In fact, these rules will shut down the industry as it stands today. Another article: http://www.nfcc.org/NewsRoom/newsreleases/files09/DebtSettlement.pdf Debt Settlement May Be Too Good to Be True

2/2/2010 9:01 AM (PST)

Thank you, BBB. This information is very helpful. Best wishes.