There are many difficulties, emotions, and frustrations that come with having unpaid debt hanging over your head. One of them is facing numerous small payments that each have their own interest charges. Consolidation of those payments could be the answer, especially if that comes with lower interest rates and the hope of being debt-free just a little bit sooner. One of the most common ways to accomplish this consolidation is with the help of a credit counseling service or debt consolidation company to help you negotiate and combine your payments at a lower rate. The service will manage your payments and you will have a quicker, simpler way to progress toward your goal. But be sure to check out the service ahead of time so you'll know they're reliable. To find the best debt consolidation companies, you may want to look for a non-profit credit counseling service, consult a debt consolidation lawyer, or check with the National Federation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) which accredits those agencies. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau and your local consumer protection office.