collector claims says that my payment offer is considered refusal to pay

[vita]

What is the name of your state?What is the name of your state? NJ

Today I tried to work out a payment agreement w- the collection agency for Chase. I said that I was willing to make voluntary payments on the account. They said that if I could not agree to the payment schedule they proposed over the next 6 months (2000 dollars now, 500 per month for the next 6 months) then they consider it as me refusing to pay, and seek involuntary payment methods thorugh a lawyer. Is there a law that states a minimum percentage must be paid on the overall balance by a certain time? My Q is...if I am volunteering to make a smaller payment over a longer time period, how can they claim that I am refusing to pay alltogether? That seems illegal to me, as I am calling them and volunteering to pay something towards this debt. It is a large debt amount. I think I will write a letter to them today. Any suggestions or advice? They are just so uncooperative and unwilling to work out payment arrangements unless they are huge payments-settlements. Is this legal? Thank you.

[Ladynred]

Is there a law that states a minimum percentage must be paid on the overall balance by a certain time?

Nope.

..if I am volunteering to make a smaller payment over a longer time period, how can they claim that I am refusing to pay alltogether?

Its garbage. Standard answer from ANY collector if you don't give over the full amount Immediately and on their terms. Its a piss-off point for them, most people will get pissed and say 'I'm not refusing to pay !!!'. They're pushing your buttons - ignore it, its crap.

They can't do anything 'involuntary' to collect unless and until they serve you with a lawsuit and then win a judgment against you. Then and ONLY then can they do anything to force you to pay 'involuntarily'.

They are just so uncooperative and unwilling to work out payment arrangements unless they are huge payments-settlements. Is this legal?

Unfortunately, yes. Collection agencies want to turn over a debt as fast as possible - make their profits and move on to their next victim. They will ALWAYS insist on ridiculous payments in ridiculous time frames to create a sense of urgency and to make their 'kill' and run.

Never try to negotiate with these dirtballs over the phone -its a waste of your time and energy and not worth blowing your blood pressure over their nonsense. If you want to negotiate a settlement or payment plan, put it in writing and send it to them - certified, RRR so you have proof they got it.