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The counseling session will accomplish
two things. First, you will talk with someone
who is nonjudgmental and who won't make you feel
bad. Second, you will get some much-needed perspective
and advice.
I'm concerned about your plans to give up the car. Unless you could sell the vehicle and make money or break even, it may not make sense on any level.
However, if you owe less than the car is worth and don't need it to get to work, it may make sense to sell it is part of a financial plan you believe is in your best interest. Base the decision on your current financial situation and future goals, not on trying to please a stranger who doesn't have your best interests at heart.
Examining your monthly expenses, such as cable and cell phone service, is a good idea for anyone who needs to find extra money in the budget. Don't cut so severely, however, that you are miserable. You are already under enough stress dealing with this collector; you don't need any additional discomfort in your life right now.
For the immediate future, the next time the collector calls, let him or her know you are doing everything you can. Tell the agency the amount you can afford to pay monthly and state that it is the best you can offer.
If the collector refuses to accept that, ask to speak to a manager who may have the power to accept your offer. You might also want
to review your rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act.
If the agency decides instead to turn the bill over to legal counsel, there is a good chance it will accept regular payments representing your best effort. Collection lawyers are a tough but sensible lot.
The bottom line is that you can only do what you can do. You are willing to make good on the debt. Somewhere along the line, a creditor, collector, manager, lawyer or judge will want to know why a collector is wasting valuable time on a matter that could have been resolved easily by accepting your best effort.
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