How To Negotiate A Collection
if you’re trying to build a healthy credit profile, there’s a good chance you’ll have to resolve some outstanding collections on your credit profile. If you’re not sure if you should pay or negotiate a collection, check out our list of to do’s here. If you’ve followed the advice from our previous post, and are ready to move forward with negotiating a collection, here is what we recommend you do…
Leave your emotions at the door. If you’re like most people, dealing with collection agencies ranks up there with getting punched in the nose. It’s infuriating and often leaves you feeling confused. This is on purpose. Make sure you keep your emotions in check when you call a collection agency. If you get upset, place the call on hold, scream, then calmly approach the conversation.
Call with a purpose. Settling a collection is easy. Preserving your credit score while settling out a collection can be difficult. In order to avoid a drop in your credit score, start the negotiation with the REPORTING OUTCOME first, then worry about the balance. Most creditors are willing to play ball and help you get the best possible outcome on your credit profile.
Don’t trust verbal agreements. If you’re told an account will update or be deleted if you pay today, ask for that in writing. If they don’t provide it in writing, get specific dates on when you can follow up. You certainly don’t want to take their word for it. Be vigilant and if you’re not satisfied with their offer, it may not be in your best interest to move forward.
There are a lot of variables when negotiating a collection, but if you leave your emotions at the door, call with a purpose, and hold creditors accountable to their offers, you’ll do great. If this process is leaving you frustrated and confused, we understand and are here to help. Our team goes beyond disputing to provide creditor interventions to help you find a positive resolution to your credit challenges. Let us take on the burden of working with your creditors, and schedule your free evaluation here.