After 5 months of paying less than the minimum payment due a collector called my place of employment and demanded my entire payment of $12,000 in full within 2 business days. I offered to make larger monthly payments and was told that was not an option. Also, my name is the only name on this credit card and there are no other authorized users. But I was told that my husband would be notified. Is this legal? Someone please give me some advice regarding this issue and what my options are!! Is there any way out of this??

Seedy debt collectors will use all kinds of scare tactics to get you to pay them. Basically either you can pay them our you can't. Do not let their intimidation put you in a position of paying more than you should so that you are neglecting you basic needs such as rent, car, food, etc. As far as calling your husband, it depends on the state in which you live. Are you in a community property state? If so then your husband is equally responsible for the debt and can be called on it just like you. Otherwise it is either just a threat or would be an illegal tactic. Regardless, I do not think you should be working with this unethical person to try and work this out. I would suggest that you demand to communicate with this company by letter only. You can write a letter requesting to communicate in writing only and request they not call your work, home, or any other number they have on file for you. By law they have to stop all calls. That way any "deals" are done in writing. And your stress level will go down and you will be more protected as far as what was agreed upon also.

Good luck and don't let this snake in the grass get to you.

Bill collectors will tell you that you and your widowed mom will lose your home, that police will come to arrest you. Remember if their mouths are moving they are lying. Also never allow them to have your bank account numbers, many will just try an take money out no matter what the agreement was.