Hi - My credit card debt is about 3-4 years into the SOL. I have debt with about 4 or 5 creditors and went into debt as with my creditors after a job loss. As with most, I was unable at the time to pay enough of my balance to prevent my creditors from reporting it, which they did quickly.:(
I realize, from doing some research, that making even some payment or "settling" on these old debts can make an old debt new again..
Can you filter what I'm trying to say and tell me if I should settle with these creditors at this point. My question is: Would it help my credit score to do so.. What's my best course of action to improve my credit score at this point. (I do have some positive on my score; but this negative concerns me... ) Thank you... :)

Whatever you do DON'T get involved with a debt settlement company. A financial councilor is the best choice for outside help. Negotiating the debt yourself save overall but this will not help you credit score much. If you could negotiate all you debt and arrange to pay them off would in turn lead to fastest credit score recovery. Bankruptcy will cost about 1000-1500 dollars and eliminate all debt, but you need to note that you have filed bankruptcy in the past for future credit.