There is no shortage of companies eager to sell you the "magic bullet" that will kill your credit problems. But credit repair is not magic-it is a serious undertaking that yields excellent results, if you select the right tools. Here are some questions you should ask before choosing a credit repair manual.

Question #1: Is the information current? A manual that is full of old, outdated information is less than worthless-it could be dangerous. Laws pertaining to credit repair, bankruptcy, and foreclosure are changing frequently. The government is finally realizing the extent of the credit crunch, and is amending old laws and enacting new ones. If you rely on an outdated manual, you could end up in legal hot water. Check with the publisher of the credit repair manual you are considering, and ask how recently the information in their publication was updated, and what method they use for ensuring its accuracy.

Question #2: Is the manual printed? You'd be surprised how many so-called credit repair manuals are nothing more than a series of web pages. There is no guarantee that the web pages will even be there when you really need them in a month or a year from now. And if you want to read and mark up sections of the manual, guess whose paper it will be printed on. Right! You'll be using your paper (and expensive ink cartridges) to produce their "manual." In my opinion, if you are going to be paying for a credit repair manual, it should be a printed manual, one that you can hold in your hands, turn down the corners of important pages, and underline the good stuff.

Question #3: What other resources are offered? Your primary interest may be the credit repair manual, but some publishers offer other products such as a home study course, an "eBook" version of the manual and even audio CDs. Often these multiple resources are bundled into a package and made available at an attractive price. Some of the more established publishers also provide an online forum, where you can post questions about the credit repair process. Other users and experts respond to your question in a timely fashion. The forum approach facilitates an interactive group dynamic has provides fast answers to some tough questions.

Question #4: Has long has the publisher been established? Some credit repair manuals are published by fly-by-night companies. The chances of them being around to update the manual could be slim. Other publishers have been offering their manuals for ten years or more. That longevity gives them access to experts and knowledgeable consultants who contribute timely and accurate information to the publication.

Question #5: Can you get your money back? Any reputable publisher will always offer a full refund if you're not satisfied with the manual you have purchased. Ask if they have a money-back guarantee before you turn over your hard earned money!

Selecting the best credit repair manual is crucial to the task of fixing your credit problems. The answers to the questions we've provided will help in your selection process. Good luck!