Settlement payments can be made in a number of different ways: lump sum payments, installments, or even in loose change.
Clearly define objectives before drafting the settlement offer. If monetary compensation is involved, the offer should specify the amount, payment schedule, and contingencies for non-payment. Non-monetary terms, such as confidentiality clauses, mutual releases, or other protective measures, should also be considered.
There's also no guarantee a company can settle your debt. Some creditors won't accept a debt settlement offer or work with debt settlement companies. Any debts you successfully settle may further hurt your credit score, since settled accounts stay on your credit report for up to seven years.
Yes, you can often set up a payment plan with a collection agency. Here are the steps you can take: Contact the Collection Agency: Reach out to them directly. Use the contact information provided on any correspondence you've received. Discuss Your Situation: Be honest about your financial situation.
Most debt settlement letters include: The date, name, and address of the credit card company. A notation after the address that this is regarding a hardship letter. The credit card number and amount of the debt. A short statement of your financial situation, why you're in that situation, and why full payment is a hardship.
Treat the following as a set of general guidelines: Gather complete information before you start writing. Describe your injuries and medical treatment. List your medical expenses, lost wages, and non-economic damages. Make a settlement demand. Include a deadline for legal action if you want to, but don't bluff.
The debt settlement company calls the borrower's creditor and negotiates a lump-sum debt payment of $20,000 to satisfy the previously required monthly debt payments of $10,000. The creditor, having written off the borrower due to non-payments for three months, accepts the lump-sum payment of $20,000.
Unfortunately, my circumstances are unlikely to improve in the foreseeable future and I have no assets to sell to help clear my debt. I am therefore asking you to consider writing off my debt as I can see no way of ever repaying it. If you are unable to agree to this, please explain your reasons.
Key takeaways Send two payment reminder emails to clients before the due date. Clearly define payment terms and time frames in the contractual agreement before starting to work with a client. When asking for payment, be professional, polite, and persistent through concise emails or phone calls.