If you are in financial trouble, one of the best places to start solving your problem is by getting that debt consolidated and lowered into one monthly payment that is smaller than the many payments you have been unable to make in the past. There are a number of ways to do that, including taking out a debt consolidation loan to pay off high interest cards with a lower interest loan. You can also negotiate with your creditors yourself, which is not always successful, but it can save you the fees that other services may charge. You can also enlist the aid of a credit counseling service. They are often non-profit organizations with low fees but surprising influence on creditors to lower rates and fees and manage with a payment plan that fits your budget. There are also for-profit companies that may charge higher fees and may be less inclined to consolidate your debts quickly since the longer it takes, often the more they make. Finally, an attorney may be an important option since they can help you file bankruptcy if you are in serious financial trouble.