How To Start A Credit Repair Business

By Amber Hayden – Start A Credit Repair Business MBA, Financial Business Research Specialist

  Are you considering launching a credit repair business or a service focused on improving credit scores?

Let me reassure you, it’s easier and more straightforward than you might think. However, the overwhelming amount of information on social media and YouTube can make finding the right training a daunting task. But don’t worry, this post will guide you on how to start a credit repair business effectively while saving you money.

When you search online for “how to start a credit repair business” or “credit repair training,” you’ll mostly find results from credit repair software companies. They dominate the search results due to their advertising spend, but their advice might lead you to the most expensive way to start your business.

This post aims to clarify the process and offer you the best approach to start your credit repair business from home, saving you both headaches and money.

Here’s what you need to know:

1. Qualifications: You don’t need a specific degree or a government license to become a credit repair specialist. However, adhering to compliance is vital, as there are enforced laws in this field. Being a member of a reputable credit repair trade association is advisable. These associations advocate for high industry standards and ethical practices, encouraged by regulatory bodies.
2. Choosing the Right Association: The Credit Consultants Association (CCA) is one of the leading organizations in the field. They offer affordable membership, handle consumer complaints, certify individuals, and perform undercover checks to identify unscrupulous businesses. They require members to pass exams and adhere to ethical guidelines. The CCA is even introducing a new compliance vetting system to further ensure high standards among its members. This system, going live in the fourth quarter of 2024, will perform thorough background checks and verify education and certification credentials.
3. Training and Certification: It’s crucial to receive your certification and initial training from a recognized trade association in the credit repair industry. Avoid certification training not associated with a reputable trade body.
4. Market Potential: The credit repair industry is poised for growth, particularly in the post-Covid-19 era. With low startup costs, this business can be highly profitable if you approach it smartly. Beware of the allure of free training offerings, as they often lead to hidden costs. Instead, seek out reliable sources that provide comprehensive information at no extra charge.
5. Starting Smart: The key to a successful start in the credit repair business is to do your research and avoid being swayed by hype. Be cautious of the costly paths suggested by some social media influencers and YouTube personalities.

Navigating AI and Consumer Law in the World of Credit Repair: For the Tech-Savvy Generation

In today’s digital age, where AI (Artificial Intelligence) buzzes in every corner of our lives, it’s no surprise that it’s also making waves in the credit repair world. But, before you jump on the AI bandwagon, there’s more to the story you should know.

First up, let’s talk AI. It’s like that smart assistant on your phone – super helpful for sorting and suggesting stuff, but not always spot-on. When it comes to fixing your credit, AI can sort through your credit report, spot errors, or suggest strategies. However, just like double-checking that auto-corrected text before hitting send, you need to verify AI’s suggestions for accuracy.

Now, onto consumer law – it sounds heavy, but it’s basically the rule book that protects your financial rights. Knowing these laws is a power move in credit repair. But, beware of the hype on social media. Some folks are treating these laws like secret get-rich-quick schemes and charging big bucks for basic info. Remember, it’s not just about what the law says, but also about its intent and fair use.

So, what’s the real deal for fixing your credit? Knowledge is power. Consider getting schooled through a legit training source like a trade association (think CCA). You might also want to connect with a credit coach. But keep an eye on the price tag – some of these ‘gurus’ on social media can charge thousands, with questionable results. A bit of digging on places like the BBB can reveal the real score on these coaches.

For a fraction of that cost, you could access comprehensive training and maybe spend a little extra for personalized guidance. Trade associations often provide ongoing support and full disclosure, unlike some YouTubers who drip-feed information to keep you hooked.

In a nutshell, while AI and consumer law are cool tools in your credit repair toolkit, the real game-changer is getting your info from reliable sources like trade associations, not just the latest influencer on your feed. Stay informed, stay skeptical, and empower yourself with the right knowledge.

Watch Out For Unverified and Unnecessary Financial Hype

Our research team recently examined a list from a ‘MILLIONAIRES’ group, featuring individuals who reportedly earned a million dollars in the credit repair industry. However, upon closer inspection, we found inconsistencies. For some individuals mentioned, there was no clear evidence that their earnings solely from credit repair reached the million-dollar mark. Additionally, several listed individuals appeared to have diversified business interests, suggesting that the reported earnings might represent their total income across all ventures, not exclusively from credit repair.

This finding raises questions about the accuracy and reliability of such claims. Furthermore, our attempts to corroborate these financial figures with public government records were unsuccessful, casting further doubt on the veracity of these assertions.

While it is certainly feasible to achieve seven-figure earnings in the credit repair business, and many do make a substantial six-figure income, the practice of inflating business success to enhance sales or brand image can be counterproductive. Such overstatements, often termed ‘hyping’ in business parlance, could attract unnecessary attention from regulatory bodies like state Attorney Generals’ offices. Additionally, if these claims are scrutinized and found unverifiable, it could lead to embarrassment and credibility issues for those involved.

It’s worth noting that there are numerous credit repair firms quietly achieving seven-figure revenues, focusing on delivering exceptional service to their clients without fanfare. These firms typically refrain from public displays of wealth or boasting about their financial status on social media. The ostentatious behavior exhibited by some in the industry on social platforms not only misrepresents the nature of the business but also invites unwelcome scrutiny, affecting the industry’s overall perception.

Who Should Consider A Credit Repair Business?

If you have a passion for assisting others and a good understanding of credit concepts, starting a credit repair business might be an ideal venture for you. One of its main attractions is the low barrier to entry. In most cases, the only significant hurdle you might encounter is securing a bond if your state requires it. For assistance in this area, Bondexpress.com offers helpful solutions.

This business opportunity is also highly relevant for professionals like attorneys, real estate agents, mortgage brokers, car salespersons, tax professionals, and financial planners. Adding credit repair services to your existing portfolio can enhance your business offerings.

However, for mortgage brokers, there might be a potential conflict of interest due to licensure regulations. A viable solution could be establishing a separate credit repair service, possibly in partnership with another business owner. This strategy not only helps mitigate any conflict but also provides a valuable service to a significant number of potential clients. Many of these professionals regularly encounter clients facing credit challenges, which often impede sales in their primary business areas. By directing these individuals to a credit repair service that you own or are affiliated with, you can create an additional stream of revenue. It’s a strategic move that aligns well with savvy business practices.

What Do You Need To Start A Credit Repair Business?

Starting a credit repair business is simpler than you might think. The essentials are a smartphone, a computer with internet access, an email account, and a word processor for drafting letters. But the cornerstone of success in this field is comprehensive credit repair training. You can obtain thorough training for under $99 from the right sources. After this initial training, consider finding a mentor, who can be an invaluable resource at a reasonable cost.

Remember, reading is fundamental in this business. Videos alone won’t suffice to fully grasp the nuances of credit consulting. You need to be comfortable with reading detailed material to understand the intricacies of credit repair concepts. Otherwise, you might only learn the process of sending letters without understanding the underlying reasons.

While the smartphone is useful for setting reminders for client correspondence, a website can significantly aid in business growth. However, initially, a website isn’t a must. A free Facebook page can serve your needs effectively in many cases.

Many believe that credit repair software is essential from the start, but this isn’t necessarily the case. You can start with a word processor for letter writing and invest in software later as your business grows. If the budget allows, investing in software early on can be beneficial.

Be cautious of training programs offered online, especially those from credit repair software companies or self-proclaimed gurus. Often, these are more focused on marketing and branding rather than providing the in-depth knowledge needed to be an effective credit consultant. Their goal may be to steer you towards their software, which can lead to high initial costs and monthly fees.

Starting costs, including training, can reach up to $5000, with ongoing expenses of $100 to $400 per month before acquiring any clients. Such high initial costs can be daunting and potentially lead to business failure.

What About Outsourcing?

While outsourcing is an option in the credit repair business, I advise against relying on it when starting out. It’s crucial to first understand the mechanics of the system and learn to handle the work independently. Consider the risks: what if your outsourcing service encounters issues? There have been instances where small credit repair businesses outsourced their work to a single expert, who then fell ill, leaving these businesses in a lurch because they lacked the skills to manage the work themselves. As a result, they faced numerous refund requests and ultimately shut down due to their inability to either continue the work or swiftly find an alternative outsourcing solution.

On the other hand, once you are well-versed in the processes and intricacies of credit repair, outsourcing can become a viable strategy to expand your services. Trade associations can be a valuable resource in finding reliable outsourcing partners.

Remember, learning the craft yourself not only safeguards your business but also ensures you provide personalized service to each client. Credit repair, much like hairstyling, is a personal affair. Each client’s situation is unique, and they appreciate a service that caters to their specific needs. This personalized approach is not just crucial for client satisfaction but also for the long-term success of your business.

What About Credit Repair Automation?

When building your credit repair business, it’s essential to strike a balance with automation. While automation can efficiently handle an increased client load, it should not replace the personalized attention each customer deserves. For startups, extensive automation might not be cost-effective, and over-reliance on it can lead to customer dissatisfaction. There are more budget-friendly options that can help you begin your journey.

From my observations in the industry, complete automation often involves multiple applications, each incurring monthly fees. While these systems may seem impressive, they aren’t always as beneficial as they appear. Excessive automated communications like emails and texts without personal interaction can frustrate customers. A degree of direct, personal contact is necessary.

A pre-Covid study of ten startups revealed that six invested in high-level automation. As of May 2023, only one of these six businesses remains operational. The others struggled with the costs and the perception that they couldn’t operate without such advanced systems. In reality, the extensive automation wasn’t essential for their success. Many sought an easier path to earning, neglecting the hands-on approach crucial in this business. The successful ones adapted by finding more affordable solutions that managed leads, imported credit reports, generated letters, and communicated with credit bureaus and furnishers effectively.

It’s important to note that credit repair software cannot legally pull credit reports directly from bureaus. A permissible purpose is required, and credit repair companies don’t meet this legal standard. The software can, however, import reports via monitoring services, proving to be a valuable management tool for those fully trained in credit repair.

To succeed in the credit repair business, differentiate yourself from national firms. Focus on personalizing your service. In your community, many clients may prefer your localized, custom approach over larger, impersonal companies. Emphasize custom credit repair correspondence over generic templates. A bespoke letter-writing system will be an asset.

Being a member of a reputable credit repair trade association also adds credibility. Public trust often leans towards certificates from industry trade associations over those from software companies or individuals. Certification is not legally required, but it’s wise to have it. In legal disputes, being uncertified can be used against you, whereas certification from a recognized association lends credibility and ethical assurance to your services. Plus, potential clients often check with associations to verify credentials.

How Much Can I Make If I Start A Credit Repair Business?

Operating a credit repair company requires adherence to regulations, particularly regarding the collection of advance fees. Yet, it’s still possible for an average person to earn between $500 to $8,500 monthly, even working part-time from home. The demand for credit repair services is higher than ever, and the industry is evolving to require more direct client engagement compared to the past when companies could operate with minimal client contact. For those passionate about assisting others, this is an opportune time to enter the field and earn a substantial income.

Training programs, such as those offered by CCA, can guide you on fee collection and compliance. A flat-rate charging model is generally recommended over monthly fees. Above-average performers can potentially earn $10,000 to $25,000 monthly, working full-time, either face-to-face or via online communication channels. Some exceptionally successful practitioners earn as much as $75,000 per month.

Consider the startup costs: under $500 for a basic setup with a website, or under $1,000 for a more comprehensive startup system. While some software-based solutions suggest spending only 15 to 20 minutes per client, this often comes at the cost of service quality. A more thorough approach, dedicating 30 to 75 minutes per individual or up to two hours for couples, is advisable. Charging for this time ensures a sustainable business model and a strong reputation in your community and industry.

With big firms like Lexington Credit and CreditRepair.com facing legal challenges, the role of local credit consultants has become more crucial. Consumers often prefer working with someone nearby, offering a more personalized service. Establishing a “personal services” brand can set you apart, ensuring clients feel valued and not just like a number.

Pricing Strategies for Credit Repair Services:

Currently, most credit repair companies opt for a flat fee ranging from $300 to $2,500 for individuals or couples, with service agreements detailing the offerings.

Another popular model is “Pay-for-Deletion,” where fees are based on the number of deletions or point increases. Rates might range from $50-$85 per deleted item and $10-$20 for inquiries and late payments, with variations for collections or public records. Alternatively, a flat rate of $85 for all items is also common.

For example, if a client has five disputable accounts and three non-account items, you could potentially earn up to $575: 5 accounts at $85 each and 3 items at $50 each. Clients are likely to be satisfied when they see tangible results. You can arrange for an escrow payment to secure a portion of the fee until the service is completed.

Managing two clients per month can yield over $1,000, as most clients have multiple issues on their credit reports. With three clients per week, your earnings could exceed $6,000 monthly, dedicating around 2 hours per week for each new client and 10-15 minutes for ongoing ones.

Let’s consider a practical scenario: Imagine you secure ten clients in a month, a feasible target for many home-based, small-scale credit repair businesses. Typically, these clients might have around seven disputable items on their credit reports. If you manage to delete three items per client, that equates to 30 items at $85 each, resulting in earnings of $2,550. And that’s just the beginning. As you continue to address the remaining challengeable items for the same clients, you can potentially earn another $2,550. This process can extend over 3 to 6 months per client. The beauty of this method lies in its compounding effect; as you achieve results, your client base grows, boosting your income significantly.

However, there’s an important legal aspect to consider with this payment model. The Telemarketing Sales Rule, a federal statute, may restrict you from collecting payments for up to six months after completing the work, particularly in cases where business is conducted over the phone. While this hasn’t been strictly enforced to date, the possibility remains that it could be used for regulatory action. Despite this, the pay-for-deletion method is favored by regulators as it aligns payment with successful outcomes. It’s worth noting that this method can be complex, yet many credit repair professionals find it effective. Alternatively, many credit consultants opt for a monthly payment structure, charging only after work is completed for a client.

How Do I Get Started?

As previously mentioned, starting a credit repair company doesn’t require a special government license or degree. However, there are federal rules and state-specific guidelines that must be followed. A reputable credit repair training program will provide you with all the necessary information regarding these regulations.

For your initial training, I recommend turning to a trade association that specializes in credit repair training. Such organizations focus on upholding industry standards and protecting the sector. They aim to offer a comprehensive foundation in credit repair, ensuring you become a successful and compliant credit consultant, rather than trying to sell additional products. Post-training, consider seeking a mentor or coach to elevate your business. Even a couple of hours with an experienced mentor, typically ranging from $90 to $150 per hour, can significantly impact your business growth.

Obtaining certification from a recognized credit repair industry association is highly advisable. This certification not only boosts public confidence in your abilities but also assures them of your trustworthiness. Certification from sources outside these key industry associations may not carry the same weight or validity, both in my view and according to officials I’ve consulted with. Membership in a reputable association demonstrates your commitment to adhering to industry standards.

Before launching your business, it’s important to ensure compliance with your state’s regulations and the Credit Repair Organizations Act (CROA).

The FTC and regulators prefer the credit repair industry to self-regulate due to past issues with bad actors. However, many training and certification providers overlook the importance of compliance and industry protection. This oversight leads to new entrants in the business lacking essential knowledge about avoiding public harm. It’s crucial, therefore, to align with a leading industry trade association. These associations prioritize public protection and make it a central part of their mission.

Where to Get Credit Repair Training and Credit Repair Certification

I recommend considering The Credit Consultants Association, Inc. (CCA) for your credit repair training needs. While I have no direct affiliation with them, their low-cost program and mission have impressed me. The CCA provides comprehensive startup training materials that cover the essentials of credit repair. Their core training equips you with the necessary skills to be an effective consultant. I’ve learned that they are in the process of updating their materials with new tactics, expected to be available by the end of September 2023.

The CCA is more than just a training provider; they are a trade association dedicated to certifying and supporting credit repair professionals. Their training is self-paced, and available through detailed manuals, or you can opt for more advanced training through their coaching services.

Many leading credit repair professionals, including those who now offer their own training on social media and YouTube, started their journey with the CCA. This organization is an ideal starting point for anyone looking to enter the credit repair business, with training available for under $80. They also provide one-on-one phone coaching and free email support for their members.

Acting much like the Better Business Bureau of the credit repair industry, the CCA also plays a crucial role in collecting and addressing public complaints. They actively follow up on reports of companies not adhering to industry guidelines, ensuring standards are maintained. Additionally, the CCA keeps its members updated on industry changes and focuses on policing the industry to ensure compliance.

Becoming a member of the CCA offers the benefit of receiving both training and certification at an affordable price. They also offer certification programs in the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), further solidifying your expertise in the field.

Credit Repair Software?

While you don’t necessarily need software to start a credit repair business, I’d like to introduce you to an affordable, feature-rich application ideal for startups. Given the often challenging monthly fees of popular Credit Repair Software for industry newcomers, this cost-effective option could give you a better start. However, a crucial tip:

Do NOT use credit repair software for invoicing or billing. It’s great for processing letters, managing leads, etc., but billing should be handled separately.

You might wonder why you’d avoid using industry-specific software for billing. The answer lies in the nature of most credit repair software companies – they’re typically small, possibly with just one or two owners, not large corporations. Your business needs might evolve, or you might outgrow the software, encounter conflicts with the provider, or face security issues like hacking. Critically, client billing information cannot be seamlessly transferred between different credit repair software systems. That’s why I recommend using external accounting software like QuickBooks for billing. With QuickBooks, you won’t face the headache of reorganizing your billing and invoicing if issues arise with your credit repair software.

Recommended Affordable Software:

Credit Letters Software is a powerful, budget-friendly solution starting at just $27.00 per month for the basic plan. This version is excellent for credit repair startups or advanced consultants focused on automating complex credit repair letters. It’s designed for small credit repair companies with 1 to 4 employees and may not be the best fit for larger operations. Remember, 97% of credit repair companies are small, often handling less than 175 active clients per month, making this software suitable for most in the industry. With just a few active monthly clients, you can still aim for a mid to high six-figure income.

Their Pro plan, priced at only $47, offers a cost-effective alternative to more expensive credit repair applications. It’s user-friendly, flexible, and a tremendous time-saver, making it an attractive option even for those who could start without software. When I tested this software, I encountered no issues and found it comparable, if not superior, in features to more costly alternatives.

A standout feature of Credit Letters Software is its capability for creating complex letters, ideal for hands-on consultants. It includes tools like Smart Evaluation and a Quick Dispute System, detecting discrepancies between bureaus and offering an online portal for clients. A particularly impressive feature is its integration with Letter Stream, allowing users to send first-class and certified mail directly from the dashboard.

Please Note: My recommendation is unbiased. I’m not receiving any compensation or affiliate benefits for suggesting these solutions. I’m a researcher, not a credit repair professional, but I do assist family and friends with their credit issues. For personal use, I’ve been using their Credit Letters Automation Personal version at $15 per month and have tested both their professional and White Label versions, which are excellent.

Other Software ranging from $100 to $399 per month   

Credit Money Machine has been around for 30 years, so it is probably the oldest, and it is very robust. It’s an excellent product. They do have a lite version that’s under $100, but it is limited.

Credit Admiral  They specialize in third-party disputes.  It was designed by credit repair specialists and the product is owned by the organizer of Credit Con, the industry’s best credit repair conference. He is also a brilliant source of information.

ScoreCeo is a package gaining traction. We will gain access to better review the application.

There are many more good startup packages on the scene, and as I take a closer look at them, I will update this post accordingly. Just note some software companies are facing legal issues or possibly will and we have not included these packages.

Just make sure you get good basic training and credit repair certification before purchasing any software program, but if you can afford to do both, it’s OK to be aware that the software cannot do all the thinking for you.

Credit Repair Website?

Sales are the lifeblood of any business, and generating leads is crucial, especially when your clientele includes people you haven’t met. Eventually, you’ll need a website. Even if you’re active on social media, a professional website is invaluable for potential clients to learn more about you and your services. However, creating a website that truly represents you and your business professionally can be costly.

I’ve discovered a cost-effective solution for this: www.creditrepairtemplates.com. They offer compliant website designs ranging from $299 to $399 and are known for their quality work. These websites can be integrated with various software programs. Please note that I’m sharing this as a helpful resource and not for any personal gain. My aim is to assist you in finding credible, budget-friendly solutions.

Conclusion

Remember, credit repair is inherently a personal business. It can’t be fully automated, as personal interaction is key. Over-automation can lead to customer dissatisfaction, much like the personal service expected from a barber or hairdresser. While automation in communication and processes is beneficial, maintaining at least monthly human contact with your clients is essential. The most successful credit repair firms balance automation with strong, personal client relationships.

Before you start offering credit repair services, it’s imperative to understand the work thoroughly. Even if you plan to use outsourced services, gaining knowledge through certification and training should be your first step. This will enable you to develop effective strategies that truly benefit your clients and contribute positively to the credit repair industry

Again, I recommend the Credit Consultants Association (ccasite.org). They offer membership, certification, and foundational training for an affordable fee. For $99 or less, you can become a board-certified credit consultant and start on the path to a successful business.