With unemployment high and foreclosures on the rise, more Illinois residents are putting off paying their credit card bills. Sometimes the minimum payments are not made because they have to use their available cash for necessities like food and utilities. As a result, there are a growing number of individuals and families in desperate need of debt relief who ultimately consider bankruptcy protection when other alternatives fall short.

When people are under financial stress it, they can become increasingly vulnerable. Unfortunately, there are many credit service organizations that prey on these people and lure unsuspecting consumers to their doorsteps with enticing words like credit repair and rehabilitation.

The promise to improve credit scores leads some individuals to believe this is the best path to lasting debt relief. In today's economy, one's credit score has become vitally important. Lenders and vendors have tightened the reins regarding financing. Many people are now denied financing of goods and services if they have a credit score below 740. People who find themselves in this predicament may need assistance. A reputable credit service organization might be able to assist them, but it is a complex process and likely is only a partial fix.

Every service that is provided by a credit service organization can normally be accomplished by an individual for free. Many times, debt relief requires a deeper intervention, like filing for personal bankruptcy. Reputable CSO's often refer these clients to legal professionals who can help them make these important decisions. A person under this type of pressure will want to act with confidence that they are embarking on a course of action that will directly address their financial problems as they search for a path back to economic stability.

Source: examiner.com, "Protect yourself against credit repair scams," William Lewis, Feb. 1, 2012