If you are looking at Debt Consolidation as a way to "save your credit standing" you are really barking up the wrong tree. They will do absolutely nothing that you cannot do yourself. Trust me..I went through Consumer Credit Services about 15 years ago. I only had a couple of accounts that I needed help with after my divorce. Well they totally ruined my credit with the companies that I was in good standing with due to slow pays. It is basically a gimmick for the credit consolidation company to make a buck off of your misfortune.
There is good news! I found a great program that has helped my husband and I work our way almost into a debt free lifestyle...Dave Ramsey. He is awesome! He teaches you HOW to change your lifestyle so that you can be in control of your money and not have your money control you. Be warned... you may not like what he has to say. Most of us (me included) have to learn to handle our money like grown-ups and how to get rid of the "5yr old I want it now" mentality. Once that is gone, our finances seem to straighten up.
Good Luck!
D.
SAHM of two: 19(in college) and 6(kindergarten). Owner of LittleSnowflakes. Married to my best friend for almost 13 years.