With all the concern about financial problems and out-of-control debt, many people have sought fee-based solutions through credit counseling services and debt consolidation businesses. What many haven't considered is debt reduction software that they can often download for free over the internet. This software can do much of what a credit counseling service can do. That includes helping you design a budget that will keep your expenses low and provide extra cash to pay off debts. There are often several options for debt reduction plans, including the snowball and avalanche strategies, that will help you get started, track your progress, and reach your goal if you follow the plan. These software packages won't make you exercise discipline, but they will provide the advice and insight you need if you are serious about reducing debt and restoring your credit score. You can download a free package or download several lower-priced packages for short trial periods to see what will work for you. If you are computer literate, it can only help to have this information at your fingertips to enable you to better understand and succeed in your debt reduction plan.