Debt is hard. And it lasts for a long time. But fortunately, you don’t have to fight it alone! Even if you’re relatively new to the desire to pay off all of your debt, it’s still possible with the help of financial professionals the world over.

Image via Flickr – https://www.flickr.com/photos/hankinsphoto/

Need a little help from a professional? Check out these popular free or low cost programs to help educate people about personal finance and recover better spending habits.

Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University

Dave Ramsey is a famous personality in the business of helping people get out of debt. He runs the Financial Peace University, a program that churches and schools can organize to help local people get out of debt.

The course involves attending a weekly meeting and watching his talks, then discussing the points and learning about  managing money in the course. When you “graduate,” you leave with a new budget and a new understanding of how you have been spending your money. FPU focuses most strongly on getting rid of debt, saving money for the future, and staying off of debt forever.

Suze Orman’s Tools

While they may not truly qualify as a program, Suze Orman is a money guru who has developed several tools to help people manage their money called Suze’s Tools. You can use the Compound Interest tool to check in on loans you are paying off, or track expenses using the Expense Tracker.

The Suze Orman website also includes lots of free resources such as video clips, pamphlets, and frequently asked questions. If you have specific questions on topics such as wills and trusts, it’s a great resource to check out.

Rich Dad Poor Dad’s Workshop

Working through debt while raising children? Attend a free workshop by Rich Dad Poor Dad’s Rob Kiyosaki, or sign up for the free newsletter and other freebies on the website.

There are tons of budgeting tools and helpful articles that will give you the opportunity to think about personal finance in a way that might make a difference for you: focusing on the effect your debt and money management habits will have on your children.

AARP’s Money Management Program

Looking for reduced cost assistance with your personal finance situation? The AARP has local Money Management Programs available to help you with daily money tips and specific solutions for your budget. Get help requesting a free credit report, creating a balanced budget, or organizing your bills.

The Money Management Program connects trained volunteers with low-income older adults and people with disabilities who have difficulty budgeting, paying routine bills and keeping track of financial matters. It’s like suddenly gaining a partner in the onslaught of debt that many people have to fight alone.

Are you currently paying off debt? Are you using any programs to help you make progress?