Last article I wrote about for profit credit counselors and their fees. This time I would like to write about consultation fees some Trustee’s charge. I would also like to share a few of their stories about the meetings they have had with other Trustee’s.

I was scanning the Windsor yellow pages and noted that none of the advertising Trustees state that they charge a fee to meet with a new caller. However, when I speak with new callers on the phone I am hearing something different.

If you call a Trustee, ask if there is a fee to meet with them. If there is you should be calling us. We don’t charge for the initial consultation or follow up meetings if required.

I have also heard stories that some companies won’t even meet with you unless you first complete a lengthy application form and send it in first. Again, this is not necessary. Simply gather information about your debts and bring them into our office. I will even help you complete our “fresh start” form.

I have met with people who have come to us to seek a second opinion. They have met with a trustee who focusses on bankruptcy, when the person doesn’t want to file bankruptcy ; he or she wants to file a consumer proposal.

At this point they come to us for a meeting because they want to talk about all of their options, not just bankruptcy. In many cases they left all of their personal paperwork with the Trustee and now the Trustee wants money to return it to them. This is your paperwork and you shouldn’t have to pay to get it back. If you find you are in this situation, you should advise the Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy. If the Trustee didn’t tell you about a fee to meet with them, they shouldn’t be charging you to give you back your paperwork.

If you are unsure about dealing with the person you met with, don’t leave any of your paperwork with him or her. The same principle applies to paying a for profit credit counselor a meeting fee as paying a Trustee a meeting, you can speak with me at no charge, so why meet with someone who will charge you money to speak with them?

Call me at 310-PLAN or email me and I will be pleased to discuss your financial situation with you.