text: a friends hasnt paid his credit cards in about a year now he wants to start paying? is there an 800# that he can call that will help him lower his interest rates and consolidate all hiscredit cards? or do you know the best steps to take to becoming debt free. you have to call each of the credit card companies you have an account with and negotiate to lower your rate. tell them that you're not doing so good and outline your income situation. tell them that you're considering filing for bankruptcy but really don't want to if they lower your interest or reduce the amount.   or, if you can find a credit card that has very low interest rates that can accomodate all your other credit cards, then consolidate.