Another important point that you should consider is that for some
there is no need to go through a 3rd party for help with your
debt.  It's very possible that you have all the money you need
to pay your debts and other expenses and have the ability to
impact the interest rates you pay.

I'm not just talking about a budget but a real plan for what you
want your money to do for you.  A budget is just part of the
process.  A real financial plan starts with setting your long
and short term goals and working backwards from there.  Every
financial decision you make should be directed toward achieving
your goals.

Your budget will simply be a tool to show you what you have and
what your obligations are.  Most importantly, it will put you in
control of your finances so that you can make educated decisions
regarding your spending and savings.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with consolidating your debt to
get out from under those high interest rate credit cards.  But if
you are not careful you may end up with the consolidation loan
payment and even more credit card debt.

If you are dead set on using one of the debt elimination methods
to reduce your payments, take the time to consider what you are
going to do differently in the future to make sure you don't
wind up in the same situation, or worse in a year or so.