I negotiated a settlement with WaMu. They gave me a 60% offer and I have to pay it off in 6 months. On a balance of $17,000 that's about $9900. I can't believe they offered it to me, I was only hoping for 25% off. They want to take it out of my bank account automatically. This is the only way they will do it. How can I make sure they will not sell the forgiven part of the debt or take more out of my checking account then we agreed to? They told me they won't but can I trust them? This is the original creditor so I am hoping they are more trustworthy than CAs. WaMu said I will get a letter within 7 days detailing the settlement offer and stating that the $9900 will settle the account.

That letter is your guarantee. Make sure it says what you want it to say and make sure you keep a copy in a safe place.

How or who did you reach to settle the debt. I've been trying to make arrangements but they refuse.