Choosing a Counseling Agency Things you should do before going. If you want to work with a credit counseling agency, interview several. Check with the State Attorney General, local consumer protection agencies, and the better Business Bureau, to find out if any consumer has filed any complaints about the company. Ask the credit counseling agency to send you free information; any reputable agency will do this without requiring you to provide any details about your situation. Questions to Ask: 1. What services do you offer? 2. Do you have educational materials? If so, will you send them to me? Can I access them online? Are there any fees? 3. In addition to helping me with my immediate problems will you help me develop a plan to avoid problems in the future? 4. What are your fees? Will I have to pay before getting help? 5. What is the source of your funding? 6. How much do I have to owe to use your services? 7. How does your Debt Management Program work? How will I know my creditors have received payment? 8. How often will I receive an accounting of my Debt Management Program? 9. Is a debt repayment plan my only option? 10. What debts will be excluded from my Debt Management Program?