It is to your advantage to abide by the rules as these agencies are perfectly safe. They are non-profit and will not ask you to pay for their services. Although the repayment period may be long, do not accept offers of credit while receiving services from these organizations since this will only delay the process and could possibly result in you being refused further services. Do not return to the bad financial habits that resulted in credit problems the first time. Know where all your money is going.
Small purchases can add up and make it difficult to meet important obligations.
Keep records of all money spent for one month. This detailed record will show where spending cuts need to be made. It will also alert you to any spending problems. Do this as if paying another monthly bill. This money will insure that emergencies such as illness or loss of job do not catch you totally unprepared.