I am thinking in offering a settlement for what I owe, but they are telling me I just do it over the phone and nothing in writing. I am worried this guy doesn't even take it to his supervisor and tells me no, that they want more $$$. When I asked why they don't do it in writing he just said they don't. Is that normal??

You should always get everything in writing when dealing with collection agents. You can also send them a cease and desist letter to stop them from contacting you, so you can deal with the original creditor only. A sample letter is here...

Stop It! (http://stopcollections.blogspot.com)



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Absolutely in writing!

If the case ever gets to court, what he said, or she said, will do you no good.

Good Luck!

Even if you agree to it over the phone, it is not agreed to legally until it is in writing. It is not uncommon for collection people to lie on the phone.

Even if you agree to it over the phone, it is not agreed to legally untill it is in writing. it is not uncommon for collection people to lie on the phone.


It was funny he says to me "it's illegal for me to lie to you" and that means what to me I said! Haha.

So is there a sample form of what I should put on the letter and fax or just put my name on paper the account number and that I am offering X amount of dollars??

You have all been very helpful. Thank you in advance

Actually, you should find a number that they will agree to, and then, the written confirmation needs to come from them.

I guess you could type something up yourself, but I think having it come from them is a better option for you.

If they won't put it in writing, looks like you have to go to court.

I work for Wells Fargo Collections PT while finishing up school. When we settle on an account we make the arrangement over the phone, and typically a settlement letter is mailed. They should be willing to send you a settlement letter. Like I said though, I work for Wells Fargo collections, not a collections agency, and there is a difference so I don't know exactly how they work.

Also bear in mind, when making a settlement offer, debt collectors usually only pay between 10 - 20% of the paper value of any debt.
So a debt of 1,000 could have been purchased for as little as 100.
Bear this in mind and start low on your settlement.