To get a feel about an agency, try to make it to the one within your local area.
It's a good place to start when looking for one.
While there, if you had seen customers there that had use them the previous times, ask them about how it worked out for them.
You need to know for sure whether it is a company that you want to handle your case about your credit.
If you chose the online companies, do some research and compare the different companies that are out of your area.
For example, they should be reputable where they have no complaints which are reported to the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
The ones with complaints should be avoided if possible because more than likely they are not good enough if there are lots of complaints.
But with the ones with very few complaints and has been around a long time should be checked out and see how they can help.
On the other hand with very few complaints and not been around very long should be avoided unless word of mouth from others stated that they are reputable and has given them great customer service.
Debt consolidation should be taken seriously and with your credit help, not all of them offer this service but it doesn't hurt to know which ones have this offer.
Compare every debt consolidation companies and see which one will match what you are looking for and since you want your credit help, you should also know whom you will be working with since you will more than likely have questions and need help later on.