negotiation with collection agency possible?

[sfo]

after reading similar situation, i realized no matter what, i am stuck with the remainder of the lease rent. so my next question is: if the landlord/rent management sent the case through court and now is trying to get payment through collection agency, am i able to negotiate with the agency and offer whatever i can pay? to recap briefly, i had verbal agreement with commercial landlord to end lease early in san francisco, california. he later sued while i was not around. now collection agent called. my business failed and i have no job and no money. i am staying with a friend. i can manage some money somehow given time, but not all of it. other alternative is bankruptcy and nobody gets anything. do you think the collection agency would be willing to settle with something and clear my credit record rather than force me into bankrutcy and get nothing? i appreciate any help and any idea from knowledge or experience. thanks.

 

[jlw1000]

I used to work in credit/collections. The collection agency may not have the discretion to negotiate, but it doesn't hurt to try. Tell them what you are willing to do, the collection agency may have you sign a contract with the details. Then stick to the negotiated contract, or they will sue (& maybe for the whole amount). Good luck.

 

[Elliotg]

Before you send ANY money insist that they sign an agreement modifying your obligation. If you do not get it in writing, they will likely swear that they never agreed to anything.