Vision Credit Education, Inc.

WRAL held a 2 hour call in show for viewers to consult credit and financial experts with their own problems. I joined representatives from other credit counseling organizations, law firms, credit unions and the office of the NC Attorney General.

After the call in telephone number was aired, phone calls immediately began streaming in. One caller said she had been on hold for almost 2 hours to get through.

Questions ranged from “how can I order my credit report?” to “what can I do to prevent foreclosure on my home?” We answered questions, offered feedback and provided referrals to supporting organizations that could provide further help.

Some of the common recommendations for seeking referrals included:

• For housing counseling help, contact a HUD-approved housing counseling organization. You can search for an approved agency by calling 1-800-569-4287 or visiting the US Department of Housing and Urban Development. You may also call the HOPE NOW hotline at 1-888-995-HOPE.
• For credit counseling help, seek assistance from a nonprofit charity that has a good rating with the Better Business Bureau.
• To order your free credit report, visit annualcreditreport.com or call 1-877-322-8228.

While we were unable to answer all of the incoming calls, we encourage viewers to still contact an organization that is ready to help them. All of us still take calls at our own agencies or place of work, and there are many other community resources available to meet those needs.

Here is footage from the WRAL call in segment for Five on Your Side: Credit on Call