Education and Training

• The minimum education for a credit counselor is a high school diploma, but many agencies and private businesses require the candidate to have at least a bachelor's degree. A degree program in finance, accounting or business can prepare the credit counselor for a career in the field. Credit counselors working in state agencies may have an education in social work to assist clients with financial difficulties. Credit counselors working with pre-bankruptcy clients must complete a program approved by the federal government to qualify to work with these clients. Counselors must have knowledge of state and federal lending laws and banking to instruct clients in financial strategies and debt management.
  
  

Certification

• Credit counselors may complete a certification program to enhance job opportunities. The National Association of Certified Credit Counselors offers a Debt Settlement Specialist, Credit Counselor and Financial Health certification for individuals. The candidate must complete training and pass an examination to qualify for the credential. Professional certification enhances the reputation of the credit counselor among potential clients and employers. The credential ensures the public the counselor has the skills and knowledge to work in the field.
  
  

Job Skills

• Credit counselors must have good communication skills to work with clients and explain financial information to individuals who do not have a financial background. The individual must have skills in math and computers to work as a financial counselor and debt management specialist. A credit counselor must work with client's creditors, which requires strong negotiation skills.
  
  

Continuing Education

• Certification may require the credit counselor to complete continuing education courses. For example, the National Association of Certified Credit Counselors requires candidates to complete 16 continuing education units to qualify for recertification. Continuing education ensures the financial counselor remains up to date in federal and state laws for banking and finance.