The other day one of my employees got a phone call from someone identifying themselves as “Joseph” claiming that he knew her credit score and that she had a large amount of unsecured (credit card) debt.  He claimed to have a special “Hardship” program to help her pay off the debts and wanted her to enroll.

Immediately suspicious, she asked how he got her information.  He told her that it was from Experian, one of the three major credit reporting companies.  She asked to speak to his supervisor and was passed along up the chain with each person repeating that the information was routinely sold to them by Experian and they even gave her a number to call.  She continued to press and they hung up on her.  So she called the number she was given and it was actually for TransUnion, another of the credit reporting agencies, who assured her that they absolutely do not sell this information to third parties.  As I write this, at my suggestion, she is reporting all of this in detail to the state Attorney General’s office.

So, I know that this will shock you, but collectors and so-called debt modifiers often lie. Surprised? I didn’t think so. They are counting on you being in such a bad place with all the stress induced by your debt and other financial issues you may be facing - particularly in tough times like these - that out of desperation you will hire them.  My advice: don’t!  Stress makes for bad decisions and you can easily make matters worse rather than better.

Where you should start is with me, if I may be so bold.  In the membership section of the website you can write me with questions and I will answer them.  When I give an answer it is because I think what I am recommending is the right course of action and not because I am selling you something.  You can always trust that my advice now and in the future will be solid.  And then if you want a second opinion, show it to your trusted advisors as opposed to those trying to scare you or sell you something.  Then act on the advice and you will live with a lot less stress and worry!