Pay-for-Delete Letter Template | I Can Pay You On Monday

Pay-for-delete (PFD) asks a collector to remove the collection entry from your credit report as a condition of payment. It's not guaranteed to work - large collectors typically say no - but it's always worth asking before paying. See when PFD works.

The Letter

[Date] [Your Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP] [Collection Agency Name] [Address] Re: Account Number [XXXXXXXXX] / Original Creditor: [Name] Dear Collections Department: I am writing regarding the above-referenced account. I am prepared to resolve this account with a lump-sum payment, contingent on your agreement to remove all references to this account from my credit files with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. I am proposing payment of $[AMOUNT] in exchange for complete deletion of this tradeline from my credit reports. This is a business proposal, and I understand that you are not obligated to agree to it. If you agree to these terms, please confirm in writing on your company letterhead before I arrange payment. Your confirmation should state that upon receipt of $[AMOUNT], your company will request deletion of this account from all three credit bureaus within 30 days. I will arrange payment by [cashier's check / money order] within 7 days of receiving your written confirmation. Please note that I am not acknowledging the validity of this debt or waiving any rights I may have under the FDCPA or applicable state law. Sincerely, [Your Signature] [Your Name]

Instructions

You can negotiate the payment amount AND the deletion simultaneously. Start lower than your maximum offer.
Always get written confirmation on their letterhead before paying.
If they agree verbally but won't put it in writing, don't pay. A verbal PFD agreement is unenforceable.
If they say no, you can still settle for a reduced amount without deletion.