I had a collection agency contact me about a debt by letter, when I called to ask about making payments they demanded I pay the full amount. When I told them I could not pay all of the debt at one time they pressured me into giving a post dated check. When I saw I was not going to have the money in the bank I placed a stop payment on the check. I then went through my banks online payment and sent them a partial payment . I then got a call saying they would not accept the payment and I had ten days to pay in full. I cannot afford this, what can I do?

I know the pressure can be overwhelming at times, but, you have to keep your cool and a level head.

Stay away from the post dated checks. If you do write one, make sure to post on the memo line POST DATED because in most states, they cannot press any criminal charges if the check was post dated. Basically, they knew you didn't have the money at the time they accepted your check, therefore, no criminal action can be taken.

Ask to speak to a supervisor. Tell that person that you do not respond well to threats. State that you are willing to make arrangements to get the debt paid, but that they must be willing to work with you and your budget. Worst case, they decline and depending on how aggressive they are, you might have to go to court.