Credit Report Counseling
If you are burdened by excessive credit card or other debt, you are encouraged to gather as much information as possible about your options from reputable sources before deciding on the best course of action for you.
Associated Students Legal Resource Center (ASLRC)
The Associated Students Legal Resource Center provides UCSB
undergraduate and graduate students with free legal advice, education,
information, and referrals on a range of issues, including credit and
debt. ASLRC also has over 50 self-help law books written for the
layperson available for use. For more information, visit
http://legal.as.ucsb.edu. ASLRC is located at 6550 Pardall Road, Suite
B, upstairs from Grafikart. To schedule an appointment, call
(805) 893-4246.
Credit Reporting Agencies
To learn more about the three major credit reporting agencies, to
request a credit report, and to enroll in credit protection programs if
you suspect you may be a victim of identity theft, you can visit the
following sites:
- Equifax: www.equifax.com
- Experian: www.experian.com
- TransUnion: www.transunion.com
Free Credit Reports
To obtain your free annual credit report to which you are entitled by law, visit the Federal Trade Commission’s website at http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/freereports/index.shtml.
General Debt Resolution and Credit Counseling Information
Being informed is the first step to take when you are dealing with significant debt or credit issues. Start here to learn more:
- Dealing with Debt – www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/credit/cre19.shtm
- Credit Repair – www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/credit/cre13.shtm
- Choosing a Credit Counselor – www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/credit/cre26.shtm
Government-Approved Credit Counseling Agencies
If you decide that credit counseling is appropriate for you, you may
search the following directory of government-approved agencies for a
list of agencies near you:
www.justice.gov/ust/eo/bapcpa/ccde/cc_approved.htm.