Your settlement letter should begin with a heading that clearly identifies it as a settlement proposal. Be sure to include your contact information, such as your name, address and phone number so that the recipient can get in touch with you if necessary.
Drafting a settlement agreement Consult with legal counsel. Always get legal advice when drafting or entering into a settlement agreement. Detail the dispute. Clearly outline the nature of the dispute and the reasons for the settlement. Specify terms. Include a release. Maintain confidentiality. Sign and date.
What things should be included in the Full and Final Settlement Letter? Settlement Amount: Clearly state the finalized amount to be settled. Settlement Cheque: Provide details regarding the issuance of the settlement cheque. Resignation/Termination Date: Specify the date on which the employee resigned or was terminated.
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.
Generally, you should start by offering 20% to 30% of the debt as a lump-sum payment (assuming you can afford this amount). This low starting point gives you room to negotiate while showing you're serious about resolving the debt. Be realistic and base your offer on what you can afford.
“Offering 25%-50% of the total debt as a lump sum payment may be acceptable. The actual percentage may vary depending on the circumstances of the borrower as well as the prevailing practices of that particular collection agency.” One benefit of negotiating settlement terms is likely to reduce stress.
2. Scope of Settlement the subject matter of the dispute; what are the conditions to the settlement (i.e., the settlement sum and due date for payment); obligations of the parties; timeline to comply with the terms; consequences for non-compliance to the settlement terms; tax implication; interest;
That said, most successful settlements typically result in paying 30% to 50% less than the original balance. So, for example, if you owe $10,000 on a credit card, you might reasonably offer $5,000 to $7,000 as a lump-sum settlement.
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.
A few things to include in your final collection letter: Mention of previous attempts to collect– including any statements, emails, and letters you have sent. Invoice number and amount. Original invoice due date. Current days past due. Instructions- what they need to do next.