First of all you need to check your monthly budget.   Does your monthly budget allow you to make payments? Many people do not consider it an important factor but it affects success of your consolidation program.

Another consideration is your credit report.  You should be aware of your credit report. You need to know where your immediate financial problem lies. Also, do not blindly trust your credit counselors and loan agents.  Once they   suggest you some solution, do your own math also. It will save you from paying more interest in the long run. Before consolidation starts, compare your calculations with those   given by the loan agent.

Take into account all the debts while considering debt consolidation. When you use several credit cards at the same time, you may miss   few credit card debt.  Make use of invoices and credit reports. However, if some debts are already at lower interest rate, it is better to overlook them.

Also before joining any debt consolidation program, have full understanding of consolidation services, their results, your expectations and its fees. Do not leave anything to surprise.