The Next Steps to begin the program

You are about to take a very important first step. One that will help you take back control of your life. It begins with organizing your finances. At Consumer Credit Counseling Services of Rochester (CCCS), we understand gathering your financial information can seem overwhelming. We want to assure you, we have helped thousands of people having the same kind of financial trouble you are, become debt free.

Our counselors are friendly, supportive, certified professionals. They have seen how they can help people change their lives for the better and are happy to answer any questions you may have, to help you get started.

During your appointment with our office, we will need an accurate picture of your finances to recommend the next course of action. We will need the most current financial information available to you. Please use the outline below to guide you through organizing your financial information; and taking the first steps towards achieving your goal of becoming debt free.

Let's get started!

1. Your monthly income:

   • Gather your most recent pay stubs and be sure to tell your Certified Counselor your approximate take home pay.

2. Your monthly living expenses:

   • Gather all of your household and monthly living expenses. Most people find it easiest to have their most recent bills available at the time of their appointment.

3. Who your Creditors are:

   • Gather all of your debt information. Since we will need to know who you owe, how much you owe, as well as specific account information; we request that you have either the most recent billing statements available or collection letters if applicable.
   • Commonly Asked Questions:

     Q: What if I don’t have the most recent bills or collection letters any more?

     We are able to use a copy of your credit report to do the appointment. You may obtain a free copy of your credit report by visiting www.annualcreditreport.com

     Q: What if I don’t have access to the internet?

     For a small fee, we can pull a copy of your credit report for you (please be sure to mention that you will require this service when scheduling your appointment).

4. Your Assets:

   • We need to know your financial assets such as a car or home.
   • Commonly Asked Questions:

     Q: Does CCCS try to put a lien on my assets?

     No. We simply ask for this information to assist us with setting you up with a budget based on your income and your living expenses. This gives us an accurate picture of your overall financial situation.

Thank you for allowing CCCS to assist you with your goals to become debt free! It is our goal to help you lay a solid foundation for your financial future. A solid foundation begins with a confident step forward and a fearless look at your current financial picture. Whether you feel like your finances are just a little shaky, or you feel like your financial freedom is collapsing around you; we are here to help you make the financial decision that is best for you.