debt consolidation help

[Sick&Tired]

Are any debt consolidation companies legit? I've found one online: Four Peaks Financial Services that has an A- rating with the BBB. I feel like we would have just a little more flexibility with a program like this vs. filing Chapter 13. Either way, we need to do something ASAP. I'm currently 12 weeks pregnant with our first child, and we are going to have a lot of expenses soon: baby furniture, clothes, etc. We will be so extremely strapped for cash with our Chapter 13 payment, it makes me really nervous. Any advice? TIA

[magyar123]

Those debt consolidation outfits are SCAMS.
Go ahead/see a bankruptcy attorney - try for a Chapter 7.

[keepmine]

Any reason you can't file a 7?
Don't do anything until after the baby is born and you have a handle on any unexpected medical expenses. Also, the addition to the family will certainly help with the means test plus, lower any disposable income . That 'll heelp in qualifying for a Chapter 7.

[Sick&Tired]

We make too much for Chapter 7.

[keepmine]

Which, is why you need to wait and see if the addition to your family will help you file a Chapter 7.

[wonkettegirl]

I wish someone would answer the OP's question instead of asking her why she isn't trying for a 7. Some people simply don't qualify for a 7. My bf is one of these people - he lives a frugal life, so his living expenses are not high, and he makes way above the median. However, certain costs got away from him and now he carries a big consumer/medical debt load. He wouldn't qualify for a 7. Period. He would like to look into a debt management program and, like the OP, we'd like to know if there are any legitimate ones. Does anyone know of any? I know that some of the companies that do bankruptcy consumer counseling also offer consumer assistance. Are they for real? Would they work?

[BillyRip]

Modify your 13 if the baby and related expenses do not get you past the means test.

DO NOT use a debt settlement/management company.

You will pay them more than you would pay an Atty. to modify your 13.