Debt help FAQ
Quick answers. For advice about your own debts, use the free counselors and legal aid in the directory.
Is Debt Rolodex a debt relief company?
No. Debt Rolodex does not negotiate debts, lend money, give legal or financial advice, or take payments. It is a free directory of official and nonprofit resources plus plain-language guides and a payoff calculator.
Are the resources in the directory free?
Every listed government service is free. Nonprofit credit counseling is often free or low cost, but a debt management plan may carry a modest monthly fee, so ask about fees in writing. Debt Rolodex does not receive money from anyone it lists.
How do I check that a phone number is real?
Type the organization's web address yourself rather than following a link in a text or email, and look for the number on the official site, which usually ends in .gov for federal agencies. Each card in the directory links to the official site; check it before you call.
A collector called about a debt I do not recognize. What should I do?
Do not confirm personal details or pay on the call. Ask for the collector's name, company, and mailing address, wait for the written validation notice, and dispute in writing within the validation period. See Debt collector rights.
Should I use the snowball or the avalanche method?
The avalanche (highest rate first) always costs the same or less in interest. The snowball (smallest balance first) gives quicker wins. Compare both with your own numbers in the payoff calculator and read Snowball vs avalanche.
Will checking my credit report hurt my score?
No. Checking your own report is a soft inquiry and does not affect your score. Free reports from all three nationwide bureaus are available at AnnualCreditReport.com.
Does Debt Rolodex cover my country or state?
The directory lists United States federal resources and national nonprofits. Many states have their own programs and stronger collection laws; your state attorney general is a good place to start.