Client OrientationHandbook

An Educational Resource Guide Designed To Answer Frequently Asked Questions

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C O N T A C T U S

Main Office: (954) 484-3328 (DEBT)

Toll-Free Client Services Hotline: (877) 201-7780

Creditor Services Hotline: (954) 484-3328*

AutoPay Toll-Free Fax Number: (877) 201-7780

Speed Pay Hot-line: (888) 867-3149

Dear Client:

Welcome to Consolidated Credit and congratulations on making the decision to work towards achieving freedom from debt. As you make your first payment, we will be forwarding proposals to all of your creditors, notifying them of your enrollment in our Debt Management Program. Please keep in mind that our proposals and negotiations are all done with the main credit office of your creditor, and not with the collections department. Due to this process, it may take some time for the creditor’s main department to communicate this information to the rest of their divisions. Don’t allow this to concern or frustrate you; this situation tends to straighten itself out after your first monthly payment.

If you are or begin to receive collection calls from any of your creditors, please contact our client services department; they will be happy to make a call to initiate communication with your creditors on your behalf. Additionally, your statements should not reflect any late charges provided that you’ve made three consecutive, on-time payments, if you see fees or have questions about your statements, immediately contact us with the most recent statement information and we will work with your creditors to resolve the issues.

Occasionally, you may receive correspondence from your creditors requesting payments from you or notifying you of delinquencies in your accounts. Do not allow this to alarm you; in most cases, these letters are computer generated. Please be sure to notify Client Services whenever you receive information from your creditors.

On our program, you will continue to receive your monthly statements from your creditors. It is important to keep these handy, especially having the most recent of them on hand whenever you call our office. Also, by submitting copies of these statements to us every three months, our office can ensure that you are receiving your maximum benefits of being on our program from your creditors; whether it is reduced or eliminated interest rates or any other offer. There are no rules to what creditors are to offer in this situation, but we take this on as our job to ensure that you get the best repayment plan possible. To aid us in this task, we ask you to do your part by making your payments on time in a consistent manner. Please note that your payments must be for the full amount and on time to avoid losing any benefits of our program. THE ONLY WAY TO INSURE TIMELY DISBURSAL TO YOUR CREDITORS IS FOR YOU TO MAKE YOUR MONTHLY PAYMENTS ON TIME.

We like to consider our relationship with our clients to be a partnership. At Consolidated Credit, we aim for successful partnerships and hope that you do the same by following through with your payments. Please be diligent in reviewing your creditor statements each month and notify us immediately if anything is inaccurate or if you have any questions.

Enclosed in this booklet is information for you to use on your journey to becoming free from debt. We offer multiple financial literacy programs to help you on your way. These programs are in place to support your commitment to get your finances back on track as well as to address any questions that may arise in regards to your finances.

We know this process is difficult, but don’t let it get you down. You are on your way to becoming free from debt; and that benefit alone is well worth it. We look forward to helping you achieving this goal.

Sincerely,

Gary S. Herman, President

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www.consolidatedcredit.org https://members.consolidatedcreditsolutions.org

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*Please refer all creditors to our Creditor Services Hotline at (954) 484-3328. Please remember not to give your creditors our toll-free telephone number. Your creditors can only receive assistance using the Creditor Services Hotline at (954) 484-3328.

At Consolidated Credit, we strive to provide the best possible service to each of our clients. If you ever have a question, comment, complaint, or concern and wish to write to our Board of Directors, you may do so by sending a letter to:

Consolidated Credit Board of Directors: Member Satisfaction Unit5701 West Sunrise BoulevardFort Lauderdale, FL 33313

Consolidated Credit is a member of the Better Business Bureau, United Way Chairman’s Circle, Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce, Association of Credit Counseling Professionals, and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

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1-877-201-7780

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Your success in becoming debt free depends on understanding your responsibilities and actively participating in your Debt Management Program. We cannot stress enough the importance of reviewing all correspondence received from our office and your creditors. You will need to contact our office in response to any phone calls or letters you receive so that we can ensure your Debt Management program is working for you. You may have some questions about your Debt Management Program; please review this booklet and retain it as a tool on your way to becoming debt free. Answers to many of your questions can be found in this section. Our financial literacy program guide is included to support you on the road to financial freedom.

Q. Who are we? Does Consolidated Credit rely on voluntary gifts, grants, and donations?

A. Consolidated Credit is an IRS designated 501(c)(3) non-profit educational organization, and as such operates primarily on voluntary contributions.

Clients who have regained financial stability, have completed the program, or terminate early from the program are requested to make voluntary contributions that may be tax deductible.

While donations are at the discretion of the client, it is customary that a donation equal to one month’s payment that may be gifted by extending the client’s plan one extra month, be included with the final payoff, or by enabling Consolidated Credit the right to retain any escrow balance. Your tax-deductible contribution will assist Consolidated Credit in providing education programs and other services to you and other fellow clients.

Q. I just received my New Client Orientation Packet. What should I expect next?

A. Your new client orientation packet includes critical information including your client identification number, your monthly payment amount, payment due date, payment instructions, and the client orientation handbook. Please review and become familiar with all of the information contained in the client handbook. Approximately one week after receiving your packet, you will receive a letter itemizing the creditors you have on the Debt Management Program, their account numbers and approximate balances.

It is very important that you read and confirm the information contained in the Welcome Letter and notify us of any discrepancies. Please also make sure you read The Advisor, our monthly newsletter that contains important information. Anytime you have any questions, please contact us immediately. You may visit our web site at members.consolidatedcreditsolutions.org or call us 1.877.201.7780.

Q. My counselor had advised me that from now on I need to contact the Client Services Department if I have any questions or need further assistance. Why can’t I continue to get assistance from my counselor?

A. Your counselor’s role is to partner with you to understand your financial situation, help you with your budget analysis, and help you determine the best approach in achieving your financial goal(s). If you have mutually determined that you would benefit from a Debt Management Program, the counselor will help you to understand the program, its goals, and the benefits offered by each creditor. Once your Debt Management Program is in place and consistent payments are being made, our Client Services representatives specifically trained in the maintenance of your Debt Management Program, will help you stay on the road to financial freedom. You

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can access our online Client Service Center at https://members.consolidatedcreditsolutions.org or call our Client Services specialists at 1.877.201.7780 with any questions or concerns you may have.

Q. How will my creditors know I am using Consolidated Credit’s Debt Management Program to liquidate my debts? How do I know if they are satisfied with the arrangements?

A. Consolidated has worked with and developed positive relationships with virtually every creditor. Upon receiving your first scheduled monthly payment, we will send proposals to your creditors to inform them that you have engaged in a partnership with Consolidated Credit’s Debt Management Program. Each proposal lists the terms and conditions of your repayment plan.

Most creditors will respond directly to you. If you receive any information from your creditor regarding the proposal status, please promptly contact our Client Services Department.

If your creditor informs you that the proposal was accepted, please contact our Client Services Department and share this information. Once your creditor has accepted you into the Debt Management Program, check your monthly statements to ensure the benefits are being applied. While benefits vary, most creditors will waive late and over the limit fees in addition to offering reduced interest rates. In particular circumstances, some creditors will accept the terms once the past due amount is paid. Until then, you may continue to receive over-the-limit and/or late fees.

Occasionally, a creditor with whom you are very delinquent or who has placed you with a collection agency may initially react by rejecting proposals from a debt management program. Our experience is that once these creditors begin receiving payments from our office, they will apply the payments and work with you. If a creditor finds the proposed plan unacceptable, they may return the proposal with a counter offer, requesting a slightly higher monthly payment. Typically, your monthly payment is based on a percentage of the current balance, so if the actual balance is higher than the balance you provided, your monthly payment amount may need to be adjusted to meet your creditor’s guidelines.

Should we receive a request from your creditor, we will notify you to discuss payment feasibility. It is critical that you respond quickly to our notification because if you do not remit the increased payment amount, the creditor may continue to assess late fees on your account. You may risk not receiving any benefits or have existing benefits terminated.

Q. When will my creditors be notified and receive my payment?

A. Your first payment is due to our office within 30 days of receiving your membership agreement and as outlined in your payment instructions. We will then verify your creditor information, arrange payment schedules, and send proposals to your creditors. Each proposal lists the terms and conditions of your repayment plan including a promise of your payment every 30 days or with every billing cycle.

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Q. Should I send any further payments directly to my creditors?

A. Making consistent monthly payments is the key to keeping your account in the best possible standing with your creditor. If you can afford to continue to make your payments to your creditor while we are negotiating on your behalf, you should do so. In any event, it is imperative to make your first payment to Consolidated Credit by the scheduled due date so that arrangements with your creditors will not be disrupted. Making on time payments is the key to your success.

Q. What do I do if I continue to receive letters and telephone calls regarding my payments?

A. During the transitional period, as we take over the payment disbursements to your creditors, you may continue to receive both telephone calls and letters from your creditors.

If you are receiving occasional telephone calls from your creditors, try not to get frustrated. Tell the collector that you have arranged to make your payments through our office and insist that they call us at (954) 484-3328. If the collectors say anything that concerns you, please relay that information to our office. Our partnership is the key to your success to financial freedom. We will continue to work with you and your creditors.

With proposal acceptance it usually takes approximately three consecutive and on time payments remitted through our office on your behalf, before the calls stop and the benefits reflect on your statement.

If for some reason you miss a scheduled plan payment and become delinquent while in the program, you may receive past due notices. It is important for you to advise our office of any notices, legal notifications or demands resulting from a missed payment to the Debt Management Program.

Please refer all creditors to our Creditor Services Hotline. Remember not to give your creditors our toll-free telephone number. Your creditors can only receive assistance using the Creditor Services Hotline at (954) 484-3328.

Q. May I continue to use the accounts that are in the Debt Management Program?

A. No. While you are in the program, your accounts will be closed and further charging is not allowed.

Q. My statements reflect a past due balance, when will I receive the benefits of the program?

A. Consolidated Credit does not grant you the benefits; your creditors do. If you are not already receiving benefits, you will be soon. The benefits of reduced payments and interest rates, waived late fees and the elimination of collection calls usually occur with the proposal acceptance and after you have made at least three on time and consecutive payments, or once a delinquent account is brought to a current status.

Normally this process called “reaging” occurs within 3 – 4 months or after the past due amount is paid. Keep in mind, each creditor has different terms and conditions, so the benefits will vary according to each creditor. If you are concerned that this requires immediate attention, simply call us and we will answer any questions you may have. However, if you are still receiving late charges and or phone calls after one month of being on the program, and have not received information from your creditor regarding proposal acceptance, please contact our office so this may be thoroughly investigated.

Remember, it takes time and patience in order to properly set up an account.

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Q. I have insurance products and club memberships charged to my account with my creditor; do I need to make any changes?

A. You need to determine if these products or services are still needed. Even though your creditor closes your account, these fees can still be charged and increase your balance every month. Should you determine that these services are not needed, contact your creditor directly to stop the charges. If you wish to continue with these services, you will need to add this amount to the payment made to the creditor each month. Please contact our office to adjust the amount of your payment.

Q. Do I need to change my due date with my creditor?

A. When we send a proposal to your creditor, we advise them of the date we will be disbursing your payment. Should you see that your payment is posting after the closing date on your statement, you can contact your creditor to determine if the due date with them should be changed. Creditors typically do not let anyone other than the cardholder change the due date.

Q. Why am I receiving late charges on my statement?

A. If you are receiving late fees after your proposal has been accepted by your creditor and you have made three on time and consecutive payments, you need to contact our office or circle the late charges on your statement and mail the statement to our office so that we can work with your creditor in getting the problem corrected.

Q. Does Consolidated Credit pay my bills in full and I in turn pay Consolidated?

A. No. Consolidated is NOT a loan company.

Q. Can I pay by automatic withdrawal? A. Absolutely. And we recommend this option. Due to the inconvenience of obtaining and mailing cashiers checks and

money orders, we urge all clients to participate in AUTOPAY, our automatic payment system. With AUTOPAY you can make your monthly payment via bank draft. Clients who participate in AUTOPAY have a higher success rate in becoming debt free.

Q. Can I pay by personal checks or online checks/bill pay?

A. No, we cannot accept this form of payment. The best option to ensure on time payments is to enroll in our Autopay Program. We now also offer the convenience of making a payment by phone, through our Speed Pay option (please see page 30 for details). We offer other payment options such as cashiers checks, money orders, wire transfers, military and employer allotments. Personal checks and online checks are not permitted at this time.

Anytime you find that you are not able to mail your payment by your due date, please contact our office so that we may discuss these options to expedite getting a payment to your creditors.

Q. What happens to my accounts if I fail to make a payment or make a late payment?

A. Should an unexpected situation arise that prevents you from making your full payment, please call us immediately so we can note our records and make arrangements for a revised disbursement. If we do not receive your scheduled payment by your payment due date, you may receive a letter from us. Please do not consider us another creditor. Consolidated is not a collection company.

We are here to help you in any way we can. Disbursements to your creditors will be made when we receive your payment. Therefore,

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rather than skipping a payment, try to send in a partial payment and your funds will be disbursed as they are available. Please note, without full payments, some creditors may remove your account from their hardship programs. As a result, some of the benefits you receive from our Debt Management Program will be stopped.

Q. What happens if I stop making payments through Consolidated Credit?

A. Your communication with us is of the utmost importance in this situation. Your creditors are expecting payments to be remitted from us on your behalf. If there is any disruption to the payment schedule, you risk losing the benefits provided by your creditors. To become debt free, consistent payments are important. We understand that unforeseen problems do arise. If you fail to make payments without communicating with us, termination of the program will occur after 90 days of non-payment. Your creditors will be notified; in most cases, your creditors will no longer extend benefits to you and your interest rates will revert to the contractual terms with your creditors.

Q. Can I make extra payments or pay off my accounts early?

A. Absolutely! If your financial position allows you to pay off one or more accounts early, please contact the Client Services Department to discuss your options and make arrangements for payments. Any extra payments you wish to make must be made through our office; do not make extra payments directly to your creditors. Any violation of this may have a negative effect on the agreements previously negotiated with your creditors. A Client Services Representative will obtain your current balances and discuss payment rescheduling for any remaining accounts.

If you make additional payments through our organization, the extra payments will be applied to your accounts as we see fit, unless otherwise instructed by you. Always include a letter with your extra payments notifying us that the extra funds are designated for increased disbursement. Please remember to include your name and client identification number. Making extra payments or paying off your accounts through our service does not cost you anything, there is no penalty, and it will save you time. Once those accounts are paid off, then we will direct any extra funds to your other accounts.

Q. What happens if I get laid off or lose my job?

A. If either of these unfortunate situations were to occur, please advise us as soon as possible. Because most of your creditors must see that you have made at least three consecutive and timely payments before extending benefits to you, you should do all that you can not to miss a payment during this critical period. If you find yourself in this situation, please contact us for further assistance and or advice.

Q. Will I continue to receive monthly statements from my creditors?

A. Yes. It is critical to review your statements each month to ensure that the respective accounts are properly credited. If you do not review your statements on a regular basis, you may not know if there is incorrect information until it causes a problem. If there are any discrepancies, please contact our Client Services Department as soon as it occurs; we will work with you immediately to correct the error.

Most creditors will send information directly to you; they do not supply us with this information. Open and read EVERYTHING, your

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creditors send you and contact us regarding anything relating to your payment plan. Please remember to send us the most recent creditor statements in their entirety every 3 months for our review.

Q. May I add new bills to the program?

A. Yes. There is no charge to add a new bill to the program. Please mail or fax (954-377-9507) Consolidated Credit the bill and clearly print your name and your client identification number on it. It is also very important to mark the bill with the words “NEW BILL – ADD TO PROGRAM”. We will need your client identification number, your creditor’s name and the account number, the payment address also the account balance on the portion of the bill you submit in order to accurately add the bill to your program. If your account is with a collection agency, please provide us with the original creditor information. Once we have added the bill to your account with us, we will send you notification. You will need to continue to make payments to your creditor until you receive notification from us of your revised monthly payment amount. Your monthly payment will increase to allow for the liquidation of the new debt. Please be advised, we cannot add secured debts such as auto loans and mortgages to the program.

Q. What if I move or change my telephone number?

A. Please contact the Client Services Department as soon as possible to notify us of your new address and or telephone number. It is vitally important that you always keep us informed of your contact information. Don’t forget to notify your creditors directly as well.

Q. After I complete Consolidated Credit’s Debt Management Program will my accounts be reactivated?

A. Reopening your individual accounts can only be done through the credit department of the respective creditors. You may be

required to submit a new credit application. Some creditors may automatically reactivate your account, provided that you made all your payments as agreed.

Q. What information does Consolidated Credit report to the credit bureaus?

A. Consolidated Credit does not report any information to the credit bureaus. In most cases, joining a debt management plan, making consistent on time payments, and liquidating your outstanding debt will have a positive impact on your credit rating. However, missed payments, whether enrolled in a debt management plan or not, will have a negative effect on your credit rating. If you can continue to pay your creditors and make your first and subsequent payments on time, your credit report should reflect a positive payment history. Consolidated Credit encourages you to review your credit reports from each of the three bureaus every year. You should confirm that all accounts listed are yours and check carefully for inaccuracies.

Be sure that any negative items older than 7 years are removed. Please understand you are responsible for your debts and should you fall behind, the information will reflect on your credit report. Keep in mind, there is a difference between incorrect information and negative information.

If the negative information is accurate, it will remain on your credit report. The best way to work towards a positive report is by making consistent on time payments.Q. I received correspondence from your office, why are you contacting me?

A. It is imperative that you read and respond to all information sent from our office. Generally we are attempting to contact you

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as a result of a request from you or your creditor, and was unable to reach you via telephone.

You will also receive correspondence from us if we have not posted a payment to your trust account by the scheduled due date. Please do not view this as a collection letter.

If the client identification number is missing or your name is illegible, we may not be able to identify your payment. Please be sure to clearly mark all payments with your Client ID number and print your full name.

Your prompt response will assist us in getting the payment applied to your account and disbursed to your creditors. Our office may also send a letter requesting you to confirm a balance on your account. If you receive such notification, it is important that you contact us immediately with the information provided on your statements from your creditors.

Q. Whom do I contact if I still have questions?

A. First, read this booklet in its entirety. It is designed to answer many of the most frequently asked questions. If you need further clarification or help, please call our Client Services Department. The telephone number is: (954) 484-3328 or toll-free at (877) 201-7780.

You may also contact us via our web portal:https://members.consolidatedcreditsolutions.org.

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Education Is The Key To Financial Freedom

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A Letter from our Director of Education

Congratulations on taking this important step to a brighter financial future. In today’s “spend, spend” consumer society, you are to be commended for making a commitment to getting out of debt and taking charge of your finances. I am confident that with Consolidated Credit’s help you will be motivated to make positive changes in your life.

As a consumer educator and advocate, I have been helping people solve their credit problems for more than a decade. I know that the personal financial education that Consolidated Credit offers works. Our Educational Team has created numerous publications to help you improve your personal finances. You’ll get the tools you need not only to become debt free, but also to use your money wisely, plan for the future, and build financial reserves. The topics that I have developed cover a wide range including identity theft, how to build a better credit rating, how to buy a home, and how to pay for college. Everyone at Consolidated Credit is here to support you and help you.

We look forward to making our partnership a successful one and offering you the best personal financial literacy courses available.

April Lewis-ParksDirector of Educationand Community Relations

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Tools for Financial Freedom

Personal financial literacy is crucial to successful money management. At Consolidated Credit, we hope to provide you with the tools to achieve freedom from debt and help you reach your financial goals.

Our monthly newsletter, The Advisor, is emailed and includes financial news, current events, seasonal money saving ideas, and updates on Consolidated Credit’s happenings. If you have provided us your email and have not received The Advisor, call a Client Service representative and please let them know.

Our Website www.ConsolidatedCredit.org also has a comprehensive learning center with article topics ranging from how to find a home mortgage and handling financial stress to the danger signals of credit card abuse. Forbes.com recently named Consolidated Credit’s debt calculator in its “Best of the Web” directory.

If you are a South Florida resident, or happen to be in the area, please consider attending one of our free workshops. The monthly workshops are held in our 1,200 square-foot Community Education Facility in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Seminar topics include: Budgeting Made Easy, Managing Credit and Reducing Debt, Making the Most of Your Credit Score, Home Buyers Education and Counseling, and Surviving the Holidays Debt Free. Workshops are usually posted two months in advance so check our Web site each month for the upcoming workshops. For more information about our seminars programs, send an email to workshops@consolidatedcredit.org.

Our client educational programs are delivered using a wide variety of approaches. Consolidated Credit’s Education Department has created the following workbooks, guides, and courses. Please read through this listing carefully to see which publications will be most beneficial to you and your family. All guides, workbooks, interactive

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credit courses and videos are available free of charge on our web site at www.consolidatedcredit.org. To have a copy of a publication mailed to you please call 877-201-7780.

The following is a list of the booklets we provide:

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Affording CollegeThe cost for college can be enormous and the best way to save moneyon college is to plan ahead and get started early. In fact, starting early in many ways can be the key to making college affordable. This parents’ guide discusses various ways to save for a college education.

Avoiding Foreclosure This publication is for those who are having trouble keeping up with their mortgage. It provides strategies for getting back on track and becoming current with a mortgage. The thought of losing one’s home may be so overwhelming that many people try to avoid thinking about it, but that’s never the best approach. This publication is designed to help consumers figure out the best course of action to save their homes.

Banking 101This booklet helps you learn about all of your available banking options; from checking and savings accounts, to money markets and CDs, and even loans. Learn what options will work best for you and your family.

Budgeting 101Many college-bound teens receive credit card offers before they even set foot on campus. Once at school, they are enticed with offers for free T-shirts, concert tickets, or other freebies simply for completing an application. This publication teaches how to successfully manage money, use credit wisely, and avoid credit problems. This course provides stu-dents with money management techniques that puts them in control of their money and helps them to graduate with a plan for a successful financial future.

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Budgeting Made Easy This publication teaches how to successfully manage money and avoid credit problems. This guide provides money management techniques that can put readers in control of their money and help them plan for a successful financial future. We have created this guide with two pur-poses in mind; first, to help people create and use a successful budget; second, to provide proven strategies for avoiding excess debt.

Budgets Are Cool to Learn About in School This workbook is designed for middle and high school students to help them establish a foundation for a lifetime of financial responsibility by teaching about budgeting concepts, opportunity losses, wise use of money and the importance of saving money.

Coping With Financial Stress If you’re under financial stress, you may be arguing with your spouse or family members about money, experiencing headaches or panic attacks, hiding bills or receipts from family members, or finding it difficult to sleep at night. Your eating habits may deteriorate, and you may find it hard to make it through the day. Use this guide to help you deal with your stress.

Credit Cards: What You Need to Know This basic ‘Credit 101’ publication explores the pros and cons of using credit, provides a guide and calculation formula to help consumers find out how much credit they can afford, and offers advice on what elements should be considered before applying for a credit card, how to build a positive credit history, and existing credit rights.

Credit in a New Country Establishing good credit is often frustrating for those who are new to thiscountry and don’t understand how the system works. Establishing credit is a critical component for financial survival. Use this booklet to guide you through the basics of developing credit in this country.

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Cutting Car Costs People pay a tremendous amount of money for a new vehicle and con-sumers are stretching out their loans to an average of over 62 months - just over five years. Over that 5-year period finance charges can be astronomical. This booklet reviews how consumers can save money when buying a car and details what common mistakes to avoid.

Cutting Healthcare CostsWhile it can be difficult to afford health insurance these days, it can be very risky to go without it. In fact, just over half of Americans who file for bankruptcy list medical bills as a significant reason for filing. This publication is designed to provide consumers with options regarding health care issues.

Death of Your Spouse Losing a spouse is a very stressful event and usually the last thing on aperson’s mind is getting their financial situation organized. This can be an overwhelming task, especially if the spouse who has passed on did not keep an organized record of his or her financial affairs. It is also very important not to do anything rash; this booklet will help you make a plan as you go through a time of adjustment, personally and financially.

Disaster Planning Each year families across the region watch their money suddenly disap-pear as they prepare for disasters. Stockpiling water, ice, batteries, pro-pane and canned goods can get expensive. Add to that, the money spent on plywood, shutters, filling up gas tanks, hotel costs if evacuating, lost wages because of missing work and soon all your savings is spent - but the monthly bills continue to pile up. This guide will help prepare you for a disaster.

Divorce & Your CreditThis publication addresses credit issues people need to consider before and during divorce proceedings to avoid a financial disaster, and helps consumers get their financial house in order.

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Does Your Financial Situation Scare You? Are you having trouble making ends meet each month? Do you find that your spending often spins out of control? Is it nearly impossible to save or invest money? The secret to financial well-being is not always in black and white.You can also fool yourself into saving more money.

Financial Realities for Recent College GradsThe joy of graduating from college can quickly disappear once the graduate understands that they are on their own and the bills start to pile up. Graduation usually marks the point at which grads find their first real job and take on the responsibility of their financial future.

Financial Strategies for Single ParentsFor most single parents, it’s more important than ever to have a spending plan and to make sure you are setting aside money for emer-gencies. While most people think of a budget as limiting and painful, it can actually be liberating to learn how to make the most of what you bring in. This booklet educates single parents on ways they can save and provide for their children.

Holiday Survival Guide No matter how much people love the holidays or how well they’ve planned, many people find themselves frazzled at some point. This publi-cation can help them spend some time thinnking about what they really want and create a plan for how they want to spend their time, energy, and money.

Identity TheftThis publication discusses the fastest growing federal crime in the country and provides steps one can take to minimize the chances of personal in-formation being stolen and used by a thief. The first part of this brochure is organized into checklists you can use to put these ideas into practice. The second part of this brochure will give you steps to take if you are a victim.

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Make the Most of Your Credit ScoreThis publication is designed to demystify the credit scoring process. Creditscores can change frequently as information is updated in credit reports. Lenders may use different credit scoring formulas that are customized for their loan products. Additionally, this booklet has been formatted as an animated on-line interactive module that includes participant testing.

Medical Bill and Credit CardsAs healthcare costs spiral out of control, more and more Americans are using their credit cards to pay off their medical bills according to a report by Demos and the Access Project. Based on data from a national survey of low and middle income households with credit card debt, credit card users who pointed to medical expenses as a factor in their credit card balances had a significantly higher credit card debt than those who did not have medical expenses on their cards.

Money MistakesEveryone makes mistakes with money. It happens, but it can lead to problems, and these problems may escalate if you don’t do the right things to correct them. This guide is to help you solve the money mistakes that could occur during your lifetime. The world of finance can be tricky and if you don’t act to correct these mistakes you could be put-ting your financial future at risk.

Money Savers for New ParentsChildren may be priceless, but they are also expensive. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, raising a child to the age of 18 will set the average family back nearly a quarter million dollars! This guide is designed to save parents time, money, and give guidance on issues effecting raising children in today’s environment.

MortgagesThis booklet will give you an overview of the basics of getting a mortgage, buying a home, and building equity.

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Planning Your Golden YearsWhile most Americans think they are on the path to a long and comfortable retirement, many will learn at retirement age that they’re not as comfortable as they’d like to be. This publication guides con-sumers to take time now to plan for retirement, so their future will be more secure. This document also highlights financial concerns to consider when living on a fixed income to avoid becoming troubled with debt.

Protect Yourself from Debt CollectorsThe debt collecting industry is a thriving one, and it can be a very intimidating one, too. You will discover consumer credit laws and how to protect yourself.

Rebuilding Your CreditThis publication reveals proven strategies for building better credit. The fundamental purpose of this publication is to help those who have had credit problems. This document includes strategies and concepts that can be used to improve one’s overall credit rating.

Repair Your CreditThis publication is designed to help those who have had credit problems in the past. Many people feel frustrated and worried that a damaged credit history will remain with them forever or at least for a very long time. In almost every case there are strategies and concepts that one can use to put their credit back on track.

Save Energy, Save MoneyThis guide includes tips for cutting energy costs in your home. With changes, you may be able to save a little money, or perhaps even cut your energy costs in half! Best of all, many of the tips in this booklet won’t cost you a penny.

26

Shop Smart and SaveThis booklet contains solid, everyday money saving advice. It includes tips on how to save money when traveling, buying or leasing an auto-mobile, buying insurance, major appliances, utilities and more.

Surviving A LayoffLosing a job is one of life’s most stressful events. There are both practi-cal and emotional sides to losing a job. On the practical side, you’re faced with how you will pay your bills and find a new job. On the emotional side, you may feel ashamed, betrayed or angry that you’ve lost your job. It’s easy to become overwhelmed and take actions that may affect you for years to come. Use this guide to help you through this tough time.

Talk To Your Aging ParentsWe all know that talking about your parents’ personal finances can be difficult.You are use to getting advice from your parents rather than giving it, but there comes a time when children must act like the adults and safeguard their parents’ finances. It’s a huge step that must be taken while your aging parents are in reasonably good health. If you fail to take this step, then the consequences could be financially devastating. This booklet was designed to help you with this difficult milestone.

Talking Money with Your KidsIf you’re like most people, you probably learned about money from the“School of Hard Knocks.” If your lucky, you may have had parents who talked openly about money with you and perhaps they even showed you how to earn and save money. This guide helps parents talk to their chil-dren about smart money management and the value of money.

Teenagers and Credit CardsDid you realize that credit card companies set their sights on the teenagepopulation as their next great consumer group? Although most teenagersdon’t fully understand the repercussions of using a credit card and the impact it can have on their future financial situations, it’s not stopping credit card companies from luring them in. More teens are working full or part-time jobs and are spending their own money. Last year, youngsters shelled out $105 billion of their own money, compared with $94 billion in prior years, according to Teen Research’s survey of 2,036 respondents in demographically selected areas.

27

The Wedding PlannerThis is the ultimate wedding savings guide. It helps the bride and groom decide what is really important when planning their ceremony, reception, and future. It provides the average cost of items nationally, so consumers can compare.

Understanding Your Credit Card StatementUnderstanding your monthly credit card statement can help determinewhether your spending is in line with your budget. By reading andunderstanding the fine print (especially the fine print) of your state-ment, you can prevent overspending and become more educated on how your credit card program works. Use this book to learn the ins and outs of your credit card statement and better balance your budgeting and debt.

Vacation BudgetingEveryone needs a break now and then. But when your vacation leavesyou with a stack of bills you can’t pay, it’s hardly relaxing! Next time plan a vacation that will leave you with good memories instead of debt. This guide gives you our roadmap to plan a vacation that won’t break the budget.

When Love, Marriage, & Money Come TogetherThis guide is designed for newlyweds. It addresses financial concerns forpeople who are married for the first time, as well as for those people blending families from prior marriages. It teaches couples how to com-bine their finances, set mutual goals, and decide how to manage their money to achieve their goals.

Women and MoneyWhen it comes to women and money, the news can be gloomy. We livelonger, we earn less, and we are less secure in retirement. But the news isn’t all bad, because women can also be terrific budgeters, investors, savers and entrepreneurs.

28 29

Online Interactive Tools

All About Credit This course educates you on credit basics, including how creditors determine to whom to extend credit and credit limits, how interest rates are compounded, and how to make the best use of credit to improve your financial life.

Make The Most Of Your Credit ScoreYour credit score is a number based on information in your credit report and other factors. The number represents a prediction of how likely you are to pay your bills. If it sounds unimportant, you couldn’t be more wrong. Credit scores are used widely, and if you’ve gotten a mortgage, a car loan, a credit card or auto insurance, the rate you received was directly related to your credit score.

Debt Calculator Our on-line debt calculator can show you how long it will take to pay off a debt at a given interest rate when paying the minimum amount due. We also provide an alternate calculation that shows you how long it will take to pay off the same debt and how much interest would be paid if you made a payment that was more than the minimum amount due. You can receive an amortization schedule that reflects the debt being paid off in regular installments as well.

Personalized On-line Budgeting Tool This interactive Web-based tool enables you to conduct a budget analysis. You enter required information (i.e. income and expenses) and the Personalized On-line Budgeting Tool provides a pie chart displaying a breakdown of your expenses. It then compares your spending with Consolidated Credit’s recommended spending for each category to further help you. You will also receive customized tips to help you better align your expenses with your income.

Free Budget Tool iPhone ApplicationConsolidated Credit is proud to introduce its Free Budget Tool iPhone Application. You can use it to find out if you are living within your means and how your budget compares to an ideal, recommended budget. Use this App to find tools and new creative ways to better organize your budget and identify areas of high spending.

The Budget Tool is a money management application that tracks your total expenses and creates a simple budget to control your personal finances. You can use the Budget Tool to find out if you are living within your means and compare your current budget to the ideal budget. The Budget Tool allows you to track your spending and conveniently organize your budget in a visually appealing way.

Budget Tool Features:

• Quick & easy to use interface • Export reports via email • Highlighting budget excesses • Backup important financial data • Keep track of your spending in real-time • Generate spending graphs for a visual overview of your finances • Compare your current budget to recommended and ideal

budgets • Six common spending categories with numerous sub-categories • Provides tips on saving money and cutting your spending • Best feature of all: It’s FREE!

1 Have your Consolidated Credit client identification number available.

2 Have a blank check available for bank account and routing purposes only.

3 Call our special toll-free Speed Pay Hot-line at 1-888-867-3149.

This convenient Speed Pay program allows all payments to be made with just a simple phone call and will cost less than most overnight alternatives!

Please note, there may be a service fee charged for this transaction. Additionally, there is a 5 day hold on funds transmitted via this service. All return drafts may be assessed an administrative charge. All conversations will be recorded for verification purposes only.

To use Speed Pay, follow these 3 easy steps:

It is easy and very convenient!!You can now make your monthly

payment by phone!!

Is a new way to make a payment!!

Speed Pay

Call Toll Free1-888-867-3149

30

USA BANK

Your Account: John Doe

123 Main Street

Hometown, USA 34567

Account Number: 0000 0000 0000 0000

Total Credit Line: $0.00 Available Credit:

$0.00

Cash Limit: $0.00 Available Cash:

$0.00

Overlimit Amount: $0.00 Billing Date: 07/07/04

Minimum Payment Due: $60.00 Payment Due Date: 08/06/04

24-Hour Customer Service 1-800-000-0000

For Lost or Stolen Cards 1-800-000-0000

Transactions recent transactions and pay your bill on-line at www.bank.com

Post Trans Ref Description

Amount

Date Date No.

Cr=Credit

June 10 June 10 0APR56 0000000000000000000M1 0000000000000000000 CR$60.00

June 19 June 19 057 0000000000000000000M1 0000000000000000000 CR$60.00

Account Summary

Previous Balance

$3,956.17

Purchases

$ 0.00

Cash Advances

$ 0.00

Other Debits

$ 0.00

Credits

$ 0.00

Finance Charges

$ 0.00

Payments

$120.00

New Balance

$3,836.17

Finance Charge Summary

Corresponding Daily Periodic

Average Daily Minimum (M)/

APR Rate(DPR)

Balance (ADB) Periodic (P) Charge

Purchases 0.000% 0.00000%

$0.00 $0.00P

Cash 0.000% 0.00000%

$0.00 $0.00P

Annual Percentage Rate: 0.000%

1

2

3

6

7

4

5

8

Understanding Your Credit Card Statements

31

While on the program, you will continue to receive monthly statements from your creditors. It is your responsibility to read your bills as they will confirm receipt of payments made by Consolidated Credit on your behalf. Within the first few months you will begin to see the benefits of our program reflected on your statements.

Consolidated does not receive monthly bills from your creditors, therefore, we rely on you to review your Credit Card Statements each month. This example will assist you in knowing what to look for on a statement:

1) Personal information such as your name and mailing address should be verified. Any changes in name and address should be reported to your creditors immediately to ensure that you receive future Credit Card Statements. It is critical to inform us of any changes.

2) The name of the company that extended credit to you.

3) This portion of the bill displays the minimum payment due which includes past due and over-the-limit amounts.

4) The Billing Date, also referred to as the Statement or Closing Date, represents the last day of the billing period. Please confirm that a payment has posted within the billing period and prior to your due date on the account.

5) Your Credit Card Company’s contact information.

6) A summary of all activity on your account including recent purchases, payments, and optional insurances.* Review for accuracy and call Consolidated Credit if there are any discrepancies such as late or over-the-limit fees.

7) This is a progression of your account balance over the billing period. This section includes your previous balance, purchases and debits, payments and credits, and finance charges resulting in your balance. Confirm that your payment has been applied to your account and that your balance is decreasing.

8) The Annual Percentage Rate (APR) is the rate of interest you are charged for

borrowing the creditors’ money. This rate is used to calculate the finance charges on your account. Interest rate concessions vary by creditor.

Please call our office if you find any inconsistencies or errors on your bill. Remember to send your statements to us every quarter to review so that we can monitor your accounts and make sure that you are receiving all of the benefits for which you are eligible.

*Now would be a good time to review your needs for optional supplemental insurances/benefit programs as these charges continue to add to your balances each month and may slow down the rate of liquidation.

32

BUDGETING MADE EASYA STEP-BY-STEP IMPLEMENTATION OF A SPENDING-PLAN

We suggest that you make several photocopies of the worksheets on the few next pages. This will allow you to adjust your budget and track changes as the months pass.

STEP 1List all sources of monthly income including gifts, bonuses, tax refunds, cost-of-living increases, allowances, etc. To keep track of your income, use the Income Worksheet on the next page.

STEP 2Expenses are separated into three categories: “fixed,” “flexible” and “discretionary”. To keep track of your expenses use the Expense Worksheets. Fixed Expenses remain the same each month. These include rent, student loan payments, car payments etc. Total all fixed expenses.

Flexible expenses are those in which you control the amount of money you spend. These include household and grocery items, restaurant expenses, utilities, entertainment, out-of-pocket expenses, etc. Total all flexible expenses.

Discretionary expenses are items that are not necessary for survival. If your expense to income ratio is out of balance and you are spending more money than you earn, items from this category should be eliminated or cut back. Total all discretionary expenses.

STEP 3Total all of your expenses from each sheet (fixed, flexible, and discretionary). The next step is to subtract that figure from your total monthly income. This figure will tell you where you are - in the RED or in the BLACK.

If the expense total is greater than the income total, you are off track financially. If you are in the black, that’s great! Now you just have to figure out how you should use the extra money. It should be for savings or allocated to an emergency fund. If you are in the red, you must adjust your income or reduce your expenses.

The goal is to bring your finances into balance so you can get out of debt. Adjust your flexible and discretionary expenses as best as possible and write the new amount you want to spend in the right column of the expense sheets.

STEP 4Next, you have to allocate what expenses will be paid from which pay period. On a calendar write down what dates you will be receiving income. Using a different color ink, write in the dates of when your individual bills are due. This will help you figure out what bills and/or expenses you must pay from which pay period and will give you a clear idea of how much money you must set aside from each paycheck/allowance.

STEP 5Once you adjust your expenses to your income, find ways to dedicate a certain amount of any surplus money to pay off your most costly debts. When your credit cards and loans are paid off, your priority should be to allocate 5% of your monthly income to a savings account. The goal is to build enough savings to create a reserve account. This method will save you from living paycheck to paycheck and help you deal with the surprises of life.

Review your spending plan each income period. At the end of each, compare actual expenses against what you budgeted. Don’t be afraid to change your budget and re-work the numbers. It must evolve as your life does. If you find a particular thing is not working - change it! As time passes, and you fine-tune your budget, you may want to only perform this comparison on a quarterly basis.

33

INCOME WORKSHEET

Use this form to track your income. List all sources of income including cash gifts, bonuses, tax refunds, cost-of-living increases, etc.

All earnings you list should be net amounts (after tax).

Income Source Weekly/Bi-Weekly Income

Monthly Income

Your Wages

Spouse’s Wages

Part-Time Wages

Child Support

Alimony

Social Security Benefits

Veteran’s Benefits

Other

Other

FIXED EXPENSES

Use this form to track your fixed expenses. These expenses remain the same each month and include student loan payments and car payments.

Monthly Expenses Current PaymentsMortgage/Rent

Real Estate Taxes

Home Owners Insurance

Car Loans/Lease Payments

Car Insurance

Student Loans

Alimony/Child Support

Medical Insurance

Consolidated Credit Program Payment

Other

Total

34

FLEXIBLE EXPENSES

Flexible expenses are those that allow you to control the amount of money spent. These include household and grocery items, restaurant expenses, utilities, out-of-pocket expenses, etc.

Monthly Expenses Current Payment Adjusted to Balance Income

Telephone Bill

Electric/Gas

Oil/ Fuel Bill

Cable Television Bill

Groceries

Household Supplies

School Supplies

Clothes

Dry Cleaning

Laundry

Savings (5% is your goal)

Other

Total

DISCRETIONARY EXPENSES

Discretionary expenses are items that are not necessary for survival. If your expense to income ratio is out of balance, items from this category should be eliminated or cut back.

Monthly Expenses Current Payment Adjusted to Balance Income

Recreation

Movies/Plays

Dining Out

Sporting Events

Magazines

Newspapers

Barber/Beauty Salon

Hobbies

Fund Raisers/Dues

Other

Other

Total35

End of the Month Budget AnalyzerMonth/Year___________Monthly Salary___________Other Income___________Expenses Budgeted ActualHOUSINGMortgage/Rent $_____________ $_____________Electricity $_____________ $_____________Gas/Oil $_____________ $_____________Taxes $_____________ $_____________Insurance $_____________ $_____________Telephone $_____________ $_____________Repairs/Upkeep $_____________ $_____________Other $_____________ $_____________HOUSEHOLD ITEMSGroceries $_____________ $_____________Supplies $_____________ $_____________Self Care $_____________ $_____________Toiletries $_____________ $_____________Clothing $_____________ $_____________Accessories $_____________ $_____________Dry Cleaning $_____________ $_____________Life Insurance $_____________ $_____________Medical $_____________ $_____________Dental $_____________ $_____________RECOVERY Spiritual $_____________ $_____________Therapy $_____________ $_____________Financial Counseling $_____________ $_____________CAREChild Care $_____________ $_____________Parental Care $_____________ $_____________Pets $_____________ $_____________TRANSPORTATIONCar Payment $_____________ $_____________Insurance $_____________ $_____________Gas $_____________ $_____________Parking/Tolls $_____________ $_____________Bus/Train $_____________ $_____________ENTERTAINMENTMovies $_____________ $_____________Video Rentals $_____________ $_____________Concerts $_____________ $_____________Sporting Events $_____________ $_____________Dining Out $_____________ $_____________Other $_____________ $_____________SAVINGS/INVESTMENTSSavings Account $_____________ $_____________Emergency Fund $_____________ $_____________Retirement $_____________ $_____________Stock/Mutual Funds $_____________ $_____________MISCELLANEOUSPetty Cash $_____________ $_____________Allowance $_____________ $_____________Gifts $_____________ $_____________Periodicals/Magazines $_____________ $_____________Dues/Donations $_____________ $_____________Other $_____________ $_____________

36

Time and time again clients call us regarding certain problems they may be experiencing with their account. The cause is usually the same: INCONSISTENCIES WITH PAYMENTS.

Our program is designed so that client payments are due at a certain time of the month, each and every month. If full payments are not received by your creditors on the agreed upon date, current and future payment periods will be disrupted. Clients must realize these problems will continue to linger until the account can be re-aged* again (usually after one year or more due to federal regulations) or the past due amount is made up.

In order to protect your relationship with your creditors and ensure the success of this program, we must insist that all clients make their full monthly payment by their assigned due date. Any late or partial payment will disrupt the task of keeping finance charges down, as well as late charges off your account.

If a creditor drops you from the program, all the interest charges and late charges will be reinstated and you will be in the same boat you were in prior to joining our program. Don’t make this mistake. Don’t throw your future away!

Due to the volume of payments we receive, all clients must clearly print their name, address, and client identification number on each remittance made to our office. Remember to put your correct client identification number on each money order or certified check that you send, as well as all correspondence to our office. If you are not sure of your client identification number, please call our office.

*Re-aging debts is the process by which a collection agency reports the debt as becoming delinquent on the date it was referred to the collection agency in an effort to extend the time during which the debt can be reported on a consumer’s credit report.

Attention Military PersonnelPay your bills when you are on the other side of the world! Make your life easier and contact your base payroll coordinator to set up an automatic monthly allotment to be forwarded to our office each month.

The Power of Consistent Payments

37

Client Services

As part of our continuing effort to provide you with superior client service, we have installed a toll-free client service line. By calling 1-877-201-7780 you will have direct access to our office at no cost to you. However, this toll-free number is for clients only and is not to be given to your creditors. Creditors must call our Creditor Service Hotline at (954) 484-3328. You can also access our online Client Service Center at https://members.consolidatedcreditsolutions.org where you can conveniently manage and review your accounts online.

We currently have representatives who speak English, Spanish, French, Russian, Portuguese, and Creole. If you wish to be assigned a representative who speaks one of the above languages, please let us know. We are here to help you fulfill your goals and we are willing to make any necessary adjustments to meet your needs. If by chance you do get forwarded to voice mail, please leave your name, client identification number, home and work telephone numbers, as well as a detailed message regarding the reason for your call. We will return your telephone call as soon as possible.

Dropping a note in with your monthly payment regarding inquires can be a beneficial time saver. Always make sure that your name and client identification number is noted on all correspondence. Sending us a letter ensures that the correct person will be answering your questions. We will also have a written record of your request that can be added to your file for future reference.

38

You have certain rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Congress passed the Act in 1977. This law covers personal, family, and household debts. This includes money owed for the purchase of a car, medical care, and for charge accounts.

The following is a list of the debt collection practices that are prohibited:Harassment: Debt collectors may not harass, oppress, or abuse any person. They may not use threats of violence or harm, profane language, or publish a list of consumers who refuse to pay. Additionally, the collectors cannot repeatedly use the telephone to annoy someone without identifying themselves.False Statements: Debt collectors may not use any false statements when collecting a debt. They are prohibited from falsely implying they are an attorney, or that you have committed a crime. They may not say that they will seize, garnish, attach or sell your property or wages, unless they intend to do so and if it is legal in your state.Unfair Practices: Debt collectors may not engage in any unfair practices! They cannot collect more than you owe. They cannot deposit a postdated check before the day it is dated. They cannot call you collect or send you a collection postcard.

If you feel you are being harassed, it is imperative that the following procedures be followed exactly if you want to get these calls stopped!

1) When you receive a call, immediately have the caller identify themselves with their name, address, and phone number.

2) Do not make promises that you don’t have the ability or desire to keep.3) If a collector calls you at work at the completion of the call say, “Calling me

at my job may jeopardize my employment. I realize that I have a financial obligation to you; however continuous calling will not get this matter resolved. Consolidated Credit is helping me rectify this problem. Please stop calling me, call Consolidated at (954) 484-3328. Thank you.” Then politely hang up.

4) If the calls continue, send the creditor a letter following the guidelines on the next page. Write the letter to the attention of the person that called you and their manager. This correspondence should be sent via certified mail, return receipt requested.

Know Your Rights!!!

Remember, knowledge is power!

39

LETTER TO STOP HARASSMENT(Sent Via Certified Mail)

DATE: ___________________

TO: ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ (Name & Address of Company)FROM: ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ (Your Name & Address)

SUBJECT: MY ACCOUNT ___________________________ (Client Identification Number)To Whom It May Concern:

Please be advised that on __________________ I requested that your representative _________________ stop calling me at home or at work. These continuous calls are serving no purpose but to harass me. I realize that I have a financial obligation to your company. However, my present financial situation makes it impossible for me to meet our original terms.

I have enlisted the services of Consolidated Credit to help me rectify my situation. Please make any further calls pertaining to my account to them at (954) 484-3328.

I am exercising my right granted by the Bureau of Consumer Protection, a division of the Federal Trade Commission, to request that no one from your company call me at home or at work again. If you must contact me, please do it via U.S. Postal Service.

I have every intention of fulfilling my obligation with your company and I hope you will work with Consolidated Credit and myself to achieve this goal.

Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

Sincerely,_______________________________________ (Print Name)

_______________________________________ (Sign Name)

40

If you ever fear that your payment may be late...

With AutoPay you will never have to:• Buy money orders or certified checks.

• Worry about your payment being late or lost.• Make unnecessary trips to the post office.

Is a new way to make payment!!You can now pay your monthly payment by phone!!

It is easy and very convenient!!

Call Toll Free1-888-867-3149

Western Union

Western Union is a fast, reliable, and convenient service allowing you to send us your payments within minutes!

Call 1-800-325-6000 to locate the Western Union agent nearest you.

Fill out a Western Union Form using the following information:Pay to: Consolidated Credit

Code City: CCSolution State: FL

Please remember to include your Consolidated client identification number.

41

Speed Pay

PRIVACY NOTICE

We at Consolidated Credit (Consolidated) respect your right to privacy. We understand that maintaining the confidentiality of your financial situation is important to you. We want you to understand what information we gather about you, how we use it and the safeguards we have in place to protect it. We also want you to understand that in connection with a request for our assistance, you may ask us to intervene with your credi-tors on your behalf, and that the sharing of certain non-public information with them is a necessary part of the credit counseling process.

Our Principles for Privacy ProtectionConsolidated does not share your financial information with any non-affiliated third parties other than those who help us in providing assistance to you, and they are required to maintain it in strict confidence. We do not rent or sell your personal financial information to any outside marketer. We maintain security practices and procedures designed to ensure the security, integrity, and confidentiality of your personal financial informa-tion. We educate our employees about safeguarding client information and preventing unauthorized access, disclosure or use, while limiting employee access to client information to those who need it to assist you.

What information do we collect?We collect non-public personal information about you from the following sources: • Information we receive from you on applications or other forms, whether submitted through the Internet or manually, as well as through face-to-face conversations, telephone calls, and e-mail communications. This information may include your name, address, telephone and social security number, as well as your creditors’ names and addresses, the amounts you owe your creditors and their account numbers, credit card account information, and your living expenses. • You may provide us with certain banking information, via the Internet, on the phone or in person, in order to process ACH payments. • Information about your transactions with us. • Information we receive from your creditors.

What information do we disclose?We may disclose the following kinds of non-public personal information about you in the course of providing credit counseling services on your behalf: • Information we receive from you on applications or other forms and from other communications with you, such as your name, address, financial account numbers, social security number, assets and income. • Information about your transactions with us, such as your account balance, monthly payment obligations, payment history, and method of payment.

To whom do we disclose information?We do not disclose any non-public personal information about our clients, or former clients to anyone, except as noted below, or in response to a court order; when required by law or when we believe in good faith is required by law or to enforce our terms and conditions or other agreements and polices. We may disclose non-public personal information about you to your financial service provider creditors such as banks, saving and loans, credit unions, mortgage bankers, finance companies, and credit card issuers. For the purpose of fulfilling our mission and providing you with certain services and to process your requests and payments, we may disclose your personal information to one or more service providers or other third parties who are assisting us in performing such services. Without limiting the foregoing, these third parties may provide us with data management, payment processing, and similar services. Additionally, in the event that you fail to complete a program you enroll in, information may be referred to a servicing agent to contact you to provide additional financial services that you may want to consider.

How do we protect information?Only those employees or servicing agents obligated to maintain the confidentiality of information who might need to know non-public personal information in order to provide assistance to you have access to such information.

Questions or corrections?If you have any question about our privacy policy and practices please contact us at (954) 484-3328. If you want to correct any personal information in our files, please submit a written request to us.Thank you for choosing Consolidated to assist you in restoring your financial well being.

Revised Privacy PoliciesPlease note that we reserve the right to change or modify our privacy practices that are described above from time to time simply by posting a revised Privacy Policy on our Website www.consolidatedcredit.org. Any such change shall be effective immediately upon posting of the revised Privacy Policy on the Website. The revised Privacy Policy shall be effective for information we already have about you, as well as any information we receive in the future. You should refer to this Privacy Policy on an ongoing basis so that you are aware of our current privacy practices.

42 43

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Now you can find FREEDOM FROM DEBT!

Consolidated Credit, a nationally recognized organization, will provide you with professional financial education, counseling and resources.

In addition, you can benefit from customized Debt Management Programs, which incorporate a bill consolidation plan to help you regain your financial freedom.

5701 West Sunrise Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33313

Call today, and take your first step toward financial freedom!

1-800-210-3481or visit www.ConsolidatedCredit.org

Our professionally trained Certified Financial Counselors

will negotiate directly with your creditors to:

• Reduce or even eliminate interest rates!

• Eliminate late charges and over-limit fees

• Consolidate debts into one lower payment

• Help you pay off debt faster

• Rebuild your credit rating

• Save you thousands of dollars

• Get you on a plan to be debt free!

R-031918