Call 4 Action reporter Susan Koeppen says the American Bar Association is warning people to be careful about credit-card debt consolidation.

Some companies may promise to manage your money, but your finances could get mangled in the end, according to the ABA.

"Before choosing debt consolidation, a consumer should consider all the options," said the ABA's Dennis W. Archer. "This is an effective way to consolidate your debts and get help. However, a consumer should be very careful when choosing to accomplish debt consolidation and should very thoroughly check the company out before signing up."

The ABA has posted advice online for consumers dealing with credit or bankruptcy issues. It's available at www.abalawinfo.org.