Not every service calling itself “debt counselling” (Schuldnerberatung) is non-profit. These points can help you assess services.
Key points
- Non-profit providers include Caritas, Diakonie, AWO, DRK, Paritätischer Wohlfahrtsverband, consumer advice centres (Verbraucherzentralen) and local authority services.
- State-recognised insolvency counselling services (Insolvenzberatungsstellen) are authorised to certify an attempt to reach an out-of-court agreement (außergerichtlicher Einigungsversuch).
- Before signing a contract, get written confirmation of what the counselling will cost.
✅ Good signs
- Costs are explained transparently
- It is clear who runs the service
- No unrealistic promises
- Qualified advisers
- Clear contact and provider details
- No aggressive sales tactics
⚠️ Watch out for
- “We guarantee to wipe out all your debts”
- High upfront payments
- Pressure to sign immediately
- New loans as the standard solution
- Unclear fees
- “Guaranteed deletion of SCHUFA records” or no clear provider identity
What does debt counselling (Schuldnerberatung) cost?
Public and non-profit counselling – for example, from local authorities, consumer advice centres (Verbraucherzentralen) or welfare organisations – is often free or publicly funded. But this is not the same everywhere: ask the counselling service directly about costs. Commercial providers may charge fees.
MeaNext provides general information about debt, payment reminders (Mahnungen), garnishment (Pfändung) and financial problems. This information does not replace individual debt, legal or financial advice. Deadlines, contracts, types of claims and personal circumstances may be crucial in your particular case.
Last reviewed by a specialist: 09/10/2026