Credit cards can serve as a very convenient payment option. You can use a credit card to pay for small items, such as lunch or a movie, or much larger purchases, such as an airline ticket or laptop computer. The downside of credit usage is the possibility of debt accumulation. If you have credit card debt with Bank of America, the good news is that according to the Federal Trade Commission, it's not necessary to pay someone to settle the debt for you. You can do it yourself by speaking with Bank of America directly.
Instructions
- 1
Gather your credit card statements from Bank of America. Examine the bills to ascertain the exact amount owed, including outstanding principal, accrued interest, late fees and any other miscellaneous charges.
2Calculate the total amount that you can afford to pay towards the debt. This dollar figure will serve as your settlement offer to the bank.
3Call Bank of America and ask to speak with a person in management, such as a manager or supervisor. Customer service reps often do not have the authority to negotiate debt settlements. Inform the manager that you would like to settle the debt, not just make a payment. You can find the number on the bank's website or on the back of your credit card.
4Offer an amount that is lower than the total amount you can afford to pay. If you can pay $800 of a $1,000 debt, offer $400. If accepted, you just saved $400 and if the manger counteroffers, you've left yourself room to negotiate.
5Request written confirmation of the agreed-upon amount. This agreement should state the accepted payment amount and specifies that your payment settles the debt. If you don't get it in writing, Bank of America could apply the payment toward the outstanding amount due and come after you for the balance.
6Make payment to Bank of America once you've received the written agreement. The bank will inform you of your payment options. Whichever option you choose, make sure you keep a copy of the payment receipt for your records.
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