Debt counseling is a good resource for those who are struggling to get out of debt. Unfortunately, few debt counseling services are free, and many businesses out there are more concerned with taking your money than helping you become debt-free.

Before you reach out to a paid service, consider using one of these four methods that are just as effective and won’t cost you a thing.

1. Consolidate your debt

Imagine your income as a pie; the more slices that have to be cut, the less everyone gets. Instead of paying multiple creditors every month, look into debt consolidation options. You can get a debt consolidation loan or transfer balances to the credit card with the lowest interest rate. By consolidating your debt, you’ll not only have fewer payments to make but will also reduce the number of different interest rates your debt is affected by.

2. Keep your creditors in the loop

One of the biggest mistakes those in debt make is to pretend they’re not in a state of crisis. Having debt hanging over your head reduces the amount of financial freedom you have and the choices you can make regarding your job, living situation, hobbies, etc. It might feel embarrassing or shameful to admit you need help, but reaching out to your creditors and letting them know your problem will be better for your situation than avoiding their calls and letters.

Reach out to their debt settlement department and explain what’s going on. You might have negative feelings associated with making this call, but the managers in these departments deal with issues like yours every day, so they’ll know what options are available for you. You may be able to reduce your payments, lower your interest rate, or even come to a lump sum settlement that absolves a portion of your outstanding debt. If you don’t ask, you won’t know what avenues are available, so be proactive and reach out to get help.

3. Use a free credit coaching service

Most debt settlement counseling companies will charge you a fee for their services. Since you’re most likely reaching out to them because there’s not enough money to go around, having to pay another company could just make the situation worse.

Before you reach out to a paid firm, consider utilizing free credit coaching services. Many nonprofits run credit counseling programs to help you create a path toward getting out of debt and work with people regardless of your income or financial health. Search for a local nonprofit that specializes in credit counseling or ask around your community. Some religious institutions will also provide this service for their congregants, so reach out to your place of worship to see what they can offer in terms of debt coaching.

4. Re-evaluate your budget

Getting yourself out of debt means having to change the way you let money flow in and out of your life. If you haven’t used a budget before, this is the perfect time to start. Begin by tracking every cent that leaves your bank account and where it goes. You can create a spreadsheet or even just a small notebook that never leaves your side. Once you notice patterns for where your money goes, you’ll get a better idea of where those money “leaks” are that keep you from making ends meet. You can then decide to reduce your expenses, if possible, or find ways to earn extra income.

The bottom line

No matter which method you choose, you’ll need to stop avoiding the issue and face your problem head-on to become debt-free. Take some time to sit down and understand the full scope of your debt situation so that you can create the best plan possible. Use one of the methods above to start and add on as you get better at developing your new spending habits. Remember that you didn’t get into this situation quickly, so it may take time to get yourself out of debt. Forgive yourself, take it one day at a time, and focus on making better financial decisions today.

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