Just about every time I sit down and watch TV I see a commercial for debt-relief lawyers or agencies. You know the kind; they typically have a lot of words scrolling horizontally across your screen as a man in a suit drones on about bankruptcy and debt and how he can get you out of it.

Many people struggle with debt, whether it’s because of old loans, overspending, or any other reason. However, it’s extremely unwise to jump right into an agency like one of these without doing proper research about them. After all, there are people out there who are looking to scam you out of money that you already don’t have.

Here are some widely accepted methods you can use to make sure you don’t fall victim to a debt relief scam:

• Check with the Better Business Bureau. Make sure that you’re dealing with a reputable agency. You want to make sure you’re putting your financial trust in a company that is well-reviewed.

• Do not pay large fees up front. Small fees are customary when you’re signing up for these sort of services, but beware of agencies that ask you to shell out a ton of money right off the bat.

• Do not give away your personal information right away.  Most of the time, legitimate agencies will give you a quote before you have to give away information like account numbers, Social Security numbers, and more. You always should be careful with this information anyway, but it is particularly important here.

• Know their methods. Before you get involved with a debt relief program, make sure you know exactly how it works and what they will do.  Ask questions about anything you don’t understand.

Have you or anybody you know ever been victim of such a scam before? If so, what suggestions would you give so that others don’t become victims as well?