Free financial counseling, debt repayment options, teaches saving, works with the IRS and other financial institutions, bankruptcy counseling, budgeting, credit card management, and managing a checking account. Debt management goes onto your credit report. Tips on how to raise your credit score.  People have to get counseling before they can apply for bankruptcy. Then a class needs to be taken before it is dismissed. HUD approved for Housing Counseling First time buyers class – 6 hours. Debt management plan application has to be filled out with fixed living expenses. This plan is to help you get out of debt in 5 years.