So, you have decided that settling your credit card debts on your own is the better path instead of hiring a debt relief company for the purpose.If you have the skills and talents to compete with these professionals when it comes to negotiation, communication and documentation then give it a shot.Not too long ago, a nurse with a little bit of groundwork in tax laws took on the IRS single-handedly then so can you in the case of debt relief.
There are certain things, however, that you must consider when settling credit card debts as a personal endeavor. These three tips will ensure that you are one step closer to successfully taking on those credit card companies.
You must ensure that your accounts are considerably delinquent
You can try to negotiate a lower principal amount on your credit card bills as soon as you feel that making the minimum monthly payment is not going to be possible or if you feel that the debts are not going to be paid due to other fiscal priorities/emergencies.You should bear in mind that the debt relief process cannot be used unless your accounts are sufficiently delinquent.
Just how delinquent? Well, delinquent credit card accounts are written off as an accounting procedure once these have reached 180-plus days in the ageing method. The write-off subsequently devalues the account so much so that third parties can purchase it for as little as 5 percent of its face value.
To avoid this from happening, the credit card company will be more than willing to settle your debts through negotiation.If the creditors get half of what you owe, thats much better than the 5% they would’ve gotten from the third party collection agencies.
Maintain Detailed and Descriptive Documentation
The days of verbal agreements holding any value are long gone and especially when it comes to credit card debt settlement.It is your word against the word of the collection agency so there isn’t a clearcut winner in this scenario.
Instead, you should maintain detailed and descriptive records of everything pertaining to the negotiation and settlement of your credit card loans. Always send out letters with complete information to the proper addresses and addressees.After that, file the letters and other forms of communication in a binder that is easily accessible.
If you must make a conversation over the phone, keep descriptive records of it. Take note of the time and date, the persons you spoke to, their contact number and the general flow of the conversation.
Use Certified Mail
When you have reached a settlement, always send your payment through certified mail. Send the check together with a memo saying that said check is for full payment, if indeed it is, along with a copy of the agreed settlement. This way, complete documentation is achieved.
Of course, there are specific steps towards settling your credit card debts on your own. Just remember these three tips and you should be alright during the entire process.
These are some specific steps that you can take. For more ideas about how can I improve my credit score you should read our articles about getting a credit card debt negotiation settlement
Now, when you are wondering -how can I improve my credit score? – you will know the answer(s)..