Benefits of Consumer Credit Counseling
Consumer credit counseling is completely voluntary. The counselor will tell you to list everything, but some people opt to leave out some cards for emergencies. This way, they can add them back later. Any accounts that are included in the plan will be frozen during the enrollment process. Most consumers find that the service is beneficial, but there are several things to consider before signing up. Here are some tips to make the process go as smoothly as possible. Here are some of the benefits of consumer credit counseling.
ACA International
ACA International’s corporate counsel Colin Winkler brings diverse legal, professional, and business experience to his role. He helps clients avoid and resolve disputes, and has successfully defended clients against thousands of consumer lawsuits. His extensive experience includes serving on the Board of Directors for ACA International and serving as past president of the Great Lakes Credit and Collection Association. He has helped clients obtain over $100 million in settlements. In addition, he helps members improve their business by offering professional development programs and networking events.
ACA International, formerly known as the American Collectors Association, is a trade organization in the United States that represents debt collection companies, creditors, and attorneys. Founded in 1939, the organization is comprised of more than 5,000 members worldwide. Members include third-party collection agencies, asset-buying companies, attorneys, and vendor affiliates. The organization works to set ethical standards and provides education and information for its members, as well as to educate consumers on how to handle difficult consumer debt cases.
The ACA International Credit Counsel Certification is an industry-wide accreditation program that certifies professionals in all aspects of the credit and collection industry. Credit counsel can earn this credential through continuing education. The CCCA program consists of six Professional Development Units that can be applied toward renewal of a CCCO. Approximately six hours of CLE credit are available for this program, including 1.5 hours in ethics. However, credit hours may be obtained individually. Individual attendees should contact their state CLE board to secure CLE credit.
As part of the association’s membership, ACA International has submitted comprehensive comments to the CFPB on behalf of its members. It did so after participating in a town hall held by the CFPB in Philadelphia. CEO Mark Neeb represented the industry at the meeting. The proposed rule will be the first since the FDCPA was enacted 40 years ago, and will have far-reaching implications for the accounts receivable management industry.
