Do it yourself debt negotiation is difficult but only because you do not know how to do it. There are several success stories of people who have reduced their debts on their own and you could be one of them if you just give it a try. However, the key to succeeding is to know what is at stake. What you know of negotiating debts will get you that financial freedom that you have been dreaming about.
All debt situations are unique so there is no one formula to negotiate. Not to mention the fact that you will be dealing with creditors from different types of debts. There are, however, general tips that you can keep in mind to provide the debt relief success that you are aiming for.
On top of the list is to always mention bankruptcy. When debt negotiation or debt settlement is considered, it also means you are in dire financial situations. If you fail at this, your only option is bankruptcy. Creditors are scared of bankruptcy because this means there is a chance that they get nothing at all. They will be more likely to accept a settlement as it is a promise that they will receive even a small percentage of the debt owed. That is better than getting nothing after a bankruptcy judge rules it to happen. They will be powerless to come after the debtor once the court passes judgement. This is especially true for unsecured creditors.
The next tip is to aim for 50% or more in terms of debt reduction. Begin with a very low offer – like 20% or 25%. The creditor will offer a higher percentage for sure. Just be firm and do not agree to an amount that you cannot afford in the first place. Keep negotiating and explain that you cannot afford payments if they are higher than what you can pay for.
It is also important that you have cash on hand to offer your creditors. All debt settlement companies will ask you to stop paying your creditors and put that amount in a safe account instead. As you go through the negotiation process, you will grow that amount so you have something to offer once the negotiations are in full swing.
Through all of this, keep your eye on the bigger picture. Not all debts can be negotiated and this is usually limited to unsecured debts. Secured debts may be more difficult to reduce but here are tips that you can use if you have to negotiate with various creditors.
Credit Card Companies. These are practically the easiest and most negotiated debt among the others. They are more inclined to accept a settlement because they are the first to be discharged when the debtor files for bankruptcy.
Other Unsecured Loans and Personal Loans. This can be approached in the same way as credit card debt.
Debts with Local Merchants. If you have debts with any merchant, you can approach your debts just like your credit cards. These are among the first debts to be discharged during bankruptcy.
Mortgage Lenders. While debt reduction is usually not possible, you can negotiate for a loan modification. This will get you lower monthly payments but that is because you will be extending your term. If you have a loan with a small or local bank, your chances of getting an approval is more likely. A home refinancing can also be an option instead of opting for a foreclosure.
Other Secured Loans. Similar with mortgage lenders, it is usually easier to negotiate if you have a loan with a small bank. Bigger banks make it next to impossible to get a loan modification. But with a smaller bank, you can follow the usual techniques as those done with a credit card company.
Student Loans. This is one of the loans that cannot be discharged by bankruptcy so a debt reduction negotiation may not be possible. There are government programs that can help in reducing their monthly payments and sometimes, cancel the entire loan. However, you need to be qualified to avail of that privilege.
When you are in doubt, it is always best to get the aid of a debt professional. You may also consult a bankruptcy lawyer to give you advice on the right path that you should take towards getting rid of your debts.