How to negotiate/settle debt with collection agencies?

[In deep trouble]

How should I negotiate with collection agencies to raise credit score? I have 70k in debt, all of which are in collections. I have called a BK lawyer to help me but got scared. Don't want BK to stay in my record for 10 yrs.

Is it true that if i try to settle/negotiate my debts, then it wouldn't take as long as 7yrs for my credit score to go up again? how do i negotiate/settle my debts with collection agencies. they're mean! I'm terrified of them! please help. I'm in big trouble - my entire family is affected, esp. my 3 kids!

[docta20]

The first thing you need to do is take control of the situation. It really sucks and you probably have been putting it off because it is not something that is very fun to do. You need to call the collection agencies. They are not going to be mean to you. They are professionals and if they are not nice to you on the phone, you can ask to speak with a manager. Call the collection companies and just tell them that you have been having som trouble paying bills. All they want is to hear that you are alive for the most part. They want reassurance that they are going to see their money. So when you are talking to them, ask them how much it is that you owe. They will tell you and then they will probably ask you when you can pay it. Tell them you can't pay it all at once, but could make monthly payments. They will gladly do this most of the time. Like I said before, they just want to be informed that you plan on paying them back. That is the first step in this. You need to notify them that you plan on paying them. Once you set up an amount to pay them each month, try to stick with it and not be late. If you cannot make a payment that month, call them and tell them that you can't make it, but give them a date that you will be able to pay them by. Communication is the main thing here. You just need contact them and begin working with them. A lot of times they will settle tha amount due for less than is owed just to recoup some of the money. You need to address this situation right away. It won't get better by letting it just sit there. Give them a call and just talk with them. You will feel so much better. A huge weight will be off of your chest. It might take a long time, but you will be going in the right direction. Good luck, I hope it works out!