Take Charge America

Take Charge America: Nonprofit Credit Counseling in Phoenix

Take Charge America is a nonprofit organization dedicated to credit counseling and debt management. Its approach is built on education, transparency, and personalized guidance, without selling loans or pressuring clients toward quick fixes. The organization works with individuals and families seeking to regain control of their finances through realistic plans and ongoing support.

Counseling and Debt Management Services

The organization offers several programs designed to address different financial needs:

• Credit Counseling: Certified counselors review income, expenses, and debts to help clients understand their financial situation and explore options. Initial sessions are confidential and free, with no obligation to enroll in any program.
• Debt Management Plans (DMP): Through this program, Take Charge America works directly with participating creditors to reduce interest rates and waive certain fees. The client makes a single monthly payment that the organization distributes among creditors. Most plans are completed within three to five years.
• Housing Counseling: HUD-certified counselors provide guidance for first-time homebuyers, foreclosure prevention, rental concerns, and homeownership planning. This service has specific hours of operation.
• Bankruptcy Counseling and Education: The counseling and education required before and after filing for bankruptcy are offered, with certificates to meet court requirements.

Debt Management Plan Features

The debt management program aims to simplify debt repayment through negotiation with creditors. Features include possible interest rate reductions and fee waivers from participating creditors, a single monthly payment, and a personalized plan tailored to the client's budget and financial goals. The organization clarifies that benefits vary based on each creditor's participation and individual circumstances.

Nonprofit Approach and Financial Education

Take Charge America defines itself as a nonprofit organization that does not make loans or sell financial products. Its work focuses on education and long-term support. The organization publishes educational resources and articles on topics such as running out of money after paying bills, signs of financial difficulty, and how nonprofit credit counseling works. It also celebrates its track record: in 2026 it marked 39 years of operation since its founding in 1987.

Frequently Asked Questions and Transparency

The organization clarifies on its website that initial credit counseling is free and confidential, that enrolling in a program is not required to receive guidance, and that counseling itself does not affect your credit score. If the client opts for a debt management plan, there may be a temporary impact, though many clients experience long-term improvement as they reduce their debt.

Service and Contact

Take Charge America serves new and existing clients through separate phone lines. General debt management hours are Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (MST), while housing counseling operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (MST). Weekends remain closed. The main office is located in Phoenix, Arizona.

Location and Contact

20430 N 19th Ave, Suite B155, Phoenix, AZ 85027