When looking for a debt consolidation company there are some things to think about. What kind of fees do they charge and how much are they? What kind of services do they provide and do they fit what I need? Also, you need to research them and find out if they are legitimate and what their rating is with the Better Business Bureau.

There are many programs, companies and services out there and the best ones are usually rated by the Better Business Bureau. Looking for companies with good ratings and the least amount of complaints is the best way to go.

Typically the best idea is to go through your own bank. You already have an existing relationship with them and they already handle some of your finances. If you have a mortgage with a bank and credit card this is the best way to handle any debt relief you have. You might be able to secure a loan to consolidate debts and receive good solid advice from financial planners.

Person to person lending sites are also a good way to handle debt and receive loans. The most recognized sites are Prosper.com, Lending Club and Virgin Money. These sites work the same way online auction sites like eBay do. You create a listing for your loan and prospective buyers bid on it; usually the bidder with the lowest bid wins. Family members can also bid on your loans on Virgin Money all the while keeping it formal and legal.

LowerMyBills.com is an online option that received a good rating and is accredited with the Better Business Bureau. Receiving a rating of A, there are some complaints against the company though. Over all, it is a trustworthy company.

Care One is a BBB member in good standing since 2002 and the winner of the TopTenReviews.com gold award for 2009.

DebtWave Credit counselling negotiates better rates with creditors, helps to eliminate penalties and can consolidate loans into one payment.

Coastal Credit Solutions offers debt management or debt settlement. They offer similar services as other programs and they are a BBB member in good standing since 2005.

There are others, if you find a company you wish to check out, it’s a good idea to check with the BBB to find their rating.