Estimated read time: Less than a minute
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
(KSL News) -- The government has a warning for anyone in financial distress--be careful when looking for help.
The Federal Trade Commission, IRS, and state agencies are teaming up to investigate nonproft credit counseling services.
Officials say some of those services charge high fees that may only worsen a person's debt and defeat efforts to pay off bills.
They say before signing up with a debt counseling service, consumers should make sure the organization offers educational programs and call the Better Business Bureau.
You should also read all contracts and look for sign-up fees and monthly charges.