FAQ
Credit Counselor FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a credit counselor.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a credit counselor: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about credit counselors
Is credit counseling free?
Many nonprofit agencies offer free or low-cost sessions.
Is bankruptcy counseling required?
Yes, before filing, from an approved agency.
What certification is common?
NFCC certification.
How much does a credit counselor make?
The median annual wage for credit counselors was $52,230 ($25.11 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $38,350 and the highest 10% earned more than $80,440.
How long does it take to become a credit counselor?
Most people need about Moderate on-the-job training of training. A bachelor’s degree is typical, plus certification and on-the-job training.
Do you need a degree to be a credit counselor?
Usually, yes. BLS lists a bachelor's degree as the typical entry-level education, although skills, certifications and experience can sometimes substitute.
Is credit counselor a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +3.3% from 2025–35 (about as fast as average), with about 2,000 openings each year. Upsides include help people in hard times; a common challenge is that modest pay.
What skills does a credit counselor need?
Key technical skills include budgeting, debt management, consumer credit law, and creditor negotiation. Employers also value empathy, patience, and listening.
What certifications are available for credit counselors?
Common credentials include NFCC certification, HUD housing counselor certification, AFC, and FinCert credentials. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Credit Counselor fit quiz, compare with Financial Advisor, or explore Credit Counselor training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 13-2071 (Credit counselors).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Credit counselors (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.