 TITLE: How to Deal With Debt Collectors CONTENT: Consider Negotiating Your Debt\n------------------------------\nIf you would like to pay the debt but don't have all the money to cover the entire obligation, you may try for a debt settlement. This is when you negotiate with the debt collector for a reduced sum. You can start the process by talking with the debt collector over the phone, but you must follow up with a letter. \"Make sure everything goes in writing before sending the money,\" says Tayne. \"If the collector asks for the payment first and you have no written agreement from them where they agree to the settlement, the collector may go after the remainder.\"\n### Will Settling Your Past Due Accounts Help Your Credit?\nWhile settling your account instead of paying the full amount you owe is not looked upon favorably by creditors, it's better than not paying at all. The credit scoring model used will determine how the settlement is considered and how it impacts your credit. END