Your debt burdens must have become unbearable, if you are scanning the market for debt relief options. You may grab the first opportunity that comes your way, without looking at it twice. However, be warned that all the companies that promise you debt relief, may not be worth your trust. These organizations portray a false image, and prey on you as they realize that you are desperate to get rid of your accumulated dues.

To avoid being trapped into debt relief scams, which exploit and rob you of your money, you can put the following tips to your use:

1. Research before you enroll with any debt relief company – There are multiple companies in the market, offering debt relief to the people. You need to choose one amongst them. So, before you opt for one, check out the details of several companies. Compare their services and market reputation. Don’t go blindly with just any among them.

2. Go for counseling – The credit counselors estimate your financial situation and propose a suitable plan, customized for you. You can judge the company’s plan of action to eradicate your debts and decide accordingly, whether or not to go along with them.

3. Cross check any information provided – Several companies, offering debt relief services, are illegal. Don’t give out any type of personal or financial information, without verifying the authenticity of the company.

4. Never pay in advance – Don’t pay any fees to a company, before they provide any solution to your debt problems. Besides, many such companies ask for your bank account details, and seek permission to deduct their fees directly from your account. Do not fall for these traps, as later on they may wipe out your savings.

5. Ask for written confirmations – Never be fooled by verbal promises. Whatever the companies pledge to you, seek the same in writing. Preserve the documents for future reference, so that they cannot deny the services offered.

6. Test out the ‘non-profit’ status of the company – Most companies that bear the label of ‘non-profit’, pretend to offer you free services. They may not actually charge you any upfront fees. Yet, later on they will seek voluntary donations and charge you hidden fees.

7. Request for payment receipts – After you make payments for any solutions provided by the debt relief companies, don’t sit back. See whether or not your creditors have actually received the payments. It is probable that the scam companies may keep on taking your payments, and don’t pay your creditors. Such missed payments may ruin your credit records, and increase your debts all the more.

Educate yourself about the possible solutions that suit your financial condition. Don’t commit to any debt relief company, if you don’t approve of their plans. Hasty decisions on your part may weigh you down, instead of relieving you.