Whether you apply online or by telephone, you will need to have your most current credit card statement information as well as your monthly income and expense information. This will enable us to put together a program that will be the most beneficial to you.

There is other information that will be needed and your Certified Credit Counselor will ask you as you go through the process.

2. What kind of debt can be included in the Debt Freedom Program?

Most unsecured debts may be included in the Debt Freedom Program. This means major credit cards, store cards, gas cards and personal loans from banks or financial institutions. These accounts need to be opened at least 6 months to qualify. Also, there can not have been a balance transfers nor cash advance on the credit card in the last 90 days. These are both creditor requirements for the program.

School loans, medical/hospital and collection bills can not be added to the freedom program. However, we do have referral sources that we can give you for help with these debts.

3. Once I have given you the information that you need, what happens next?

Your Certified Counselor will send you a completed application via email, mail or fax. Once you receive the application, you will need to sign and return the 4 forms that come with the application. These forms are the Debt Management Agreement, the Credit Report Authorization Form, the Authorization to Release Financial Information, and the Automatic Checking Authorization form. These can either be sent back electronically, by mail or fax. You will also need to send your Counselor copies of your most current credit card statements at that time. Most often, the statements are faxed or emailed to us.

4. How long will it take to start the Debt Freedom Program?

You can be ready to join the program in a matter of minutes from the time you contact us. This requires all forms and credit card statements are in our possession.

Once all the forms and statements are received by your Counselor, it is forwarded to our Administration Department for final processing. They are required to perform many tasks, including getting your program ready for your first payment. We can have you up and going on your program in a matter of days from when you contacted us.

5. How much does it cost to enroll in your program?

There is no charge for contacting us and thoroughly reviewing your current situation. We are blessed to have the Lord lead you to us and give you our input.

If you do become a Debt Freedom Client, there is a one-time initial counseling fee. The amount of the fee varies from state to state, but is always under $90. The initial counseling fee covers the cost of thoroughly reviewing your financial situation, preparing your application for joining the program and providing all the administrative functions necessary to ensure your program’s success. The initial counseling fee is non-refundable.

Lastly, there is an on-going monthly contribution we request clients to pay. This contribution allows TPFC to continue as a ministry by covering the costs we incur each month. It also allows us to help out those less fortunate by providing the services to them at a reduced cost. The monthly amount varies state-by-state and is dependent on many factors, including your current payment to your creditors. As a reference, it is rare for the contribution to exceed $50 a month on our program.

The contribution may be tax-deductible, and you will want to ask your tax advisor for guidance on this issue.

6. Can I keep my credit cards?

All credit card accounts enrolled in the Debt Freedom Program must be closed. This is a creditor requirement. This also should be regarded as a prudent course to take since it was probably the ease of using these credit cards that created your current financial situation.

However, in some circumstances, where the creditors dictate, clients may be allowed to retain a credit card and not place it on the program. This depends on the creditors you have. We can let you know when you contact us with your list.

7. Should I pay my bills in the time before I send you may first payment?

Yes. We always recommend that you do so if you can. It is always best to stay current with all of your accounts. This will help prevent any late fee charges and a negative payment history on your credit report.

8. How will enrolling in the Debt Freedom Program benefit me?

Enrolling in our program has many benefits. One benefit is the ability to consolidate all your payments into one easy monthly payment, even if you are current with your creditors. This allows you to budget your finances in a much more effective manner. Most importantly, it takes away battle fronts with the enemy from your life.

In addition, you get the benefit of a lower overall interest rate on the program. In most cases, the Debt Freedom Program is able to reduce your interest rates substantially, which allows more of your payment to go towards the principle on your debts. This allows you to get out of debt many years sooner than on your own.

Another major benefit is the benefit of returning God's hope to your life and circumstances. It is the knowledge that you are breaking from the grasp of the enemy to become a better steward of God's blessings upon your life. Now you can focus on the things that are really important, such as the continued building of the Kingdom of God. To us at the ministry, this is the biggest blessing of all.

9. Will the monthly payment be reduced on all of my accounts?

Each situation is unique, depending on the creditors you have. On our program, the creditors determine the minimum monthly payment percentages that they will accept. This payment percentage varies from creditor to creditor. There is a strong possibility your payments will decrease, as the creditors have been required by the federal government to increase the minimum payments on your debts.

If you are behind in your monthly payments, some creditors will require that you become current before they will give you the full benefits of the program. Your Counselor will be able to discuss this in greater detail with you.