If you're like the average American, you have six or so credit cards. In some cases, all those bills and balances can seem overwhelming. By consolidating your debt into one monthly payment, you can make it more manageable and affordable. And searching for a Debt Consolidation Lender online can make the process of finding a Debt Consolidation Loan easy and quick. But be wary of disreputable lenders, since the Internet makes it simple for scammers to offer Debt Consolidation services. Here are three things to watch out for:

EXTRA FEES:

Depending on the type of Debt Consolidation Loan you're applying for, you can expect to pay some extra charges. But watch out for any lender that wants you to pay exorbitant fees! You shouldn't have to pay a fee just to apply for the loan, known as an "application fee." And your total amount of extra charges should seem reasonable. To ensure your lender is charging competitive fees, make sure you compare the costs between at least three different loan companies.

POOR SERVICE:

If you just get an automated voice messaging service when you call the loan company, or if the only contact information is a web form, chances are the lender's customer service is less than spectacular. You should have at least one--if not more--phone conversations with a live loan officer or customer representative. Any emails or messages you leave should be answered promptly, and you should always been treated with respect.

PUSHY SALES:

Some unscrupulous lenders will encourage you to borrow more than you can afford, since a bigger loan means more money in their pocket. Beware of any loan company that tries to push you into borrowing more than you need, especially if their fees increase when your loan amount increases.

Debt Consolidation Loans are a smart way to regain control of your finances, since they can bundle multiple credit card balances into one monthly payment. Use the Internet to help you find a lender, but watch out for the warning signs of an unscrupulous company.