How much does a credit counselor make?
a year · about $25 an hour
A typical credit counselor in the United States makes $52,230 a year, about $25 an hour, about the same as a typical US worker (median, May 2025, US Bureau of Labor Statistics).
What do they do?
They talk with clients by phone or in person and review income, expenses, debts, and credit reports. Then they build a budget or debt plan, discuss payment changes with creditors, and update client records.
Did you know? Some credit counselors do more than discuss debt: they may connect clients with community help for food, medical care, and other basic needs.
Is that a lot?
Compared with jobs you knowIf 100 people had this job
Most earn between $38,350 and $80,440How do you become one?
In the U.S., a bachelor’s degree in business, finance, or psychology is common, though some jobs accept a high-school diploma. New hires train for months; employers may require certification, and NFCC’s credential includes an exam.
School needed: Usually a bachelor's degree
Good for people who like keeping things organized and helping and teaching
Why does pay differ?
In the U.S., pay can vary with experience and education, location, and the employer’s industry. Some employers prefer or require certification, and counselors may specialize in housing or student aid, so roles can differ too.
Where does it pay most?
Highest in California ($67,120), lowest in Tennessee ($38,730).
See every state
Top 5 and bottom 3 states, typical (median) yearly pay.
Jobs like this
Data table and sources
| Lower earner (10th from bottom) | Typical person (median) | Higher earner (10th from top) | People in this job |
|---|---|---|---|
| $38,350 | $52,230 | $80,440 | about 28,000 |
| State | Typical person (median) | People in this job |
|---|---|---|
| California | $67,120 | about 2,000 |
| Massachusetts | $63,240 | about 770 |
| New York | $63,030 | about 2,000 |
| Washington | $62,360 | about 560 |
| Minnesota | $62,160 | about 580 |
Official definition: Advise and educate individuals or organizations on acquiring and managing debt. May provide guidance in determining the best type of loan and explain loan requirements or restrictions. May help develop debt management plans or student financial aid packages. May advise on credit issues, or provide budget, mortgage, bankruptcy, or student financial aid counseling.
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS May 2025 (bls.gov); descriptions and related jobs from O*NET 31.0. Figures as of May 2025, full-time yearly pay (hourly × 2,080 hours). bls.gov/oes · O*NET OnLine
Pages used for the text
- www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/credit-counselors.htm
- www.onetonline.org/link/summary/13-2071.00
- www.nfcc.org/faqs/how-do-i-become-a-credit-counselor
- www.bls.gov/oes/earnings.htm
Data: US BLS OEWS, May 2025 · 1 USD = 150 JPY