<prompt> Human: Hey Reddit!!I have one collection left on my credit report which is a joint account I had with my ex from about 4 years ago. I called the collection agency to settle the debt which was originally 6478. The lady with the collection agency offered me 3250 to settle, which I replied Id go over my finances and reply. I called back a couple hours later and spoke with a different person, and I offered to pay 2000. The guy mentioned taking me off of this account if I paid that amount, and leaving my ex on there. This technically sounds like a win win. I have two questions. 1. Is this even legal to do? Should I go through with this if its possible? Obviously I know to get it I writing. 2. Would he mean settle the debt of 3250 for 2000? Or is it possible hed mark me as paid in full of a separate account and leave her with the 4478? Thanks Reddit, sorry if confusing.  <response>: My guess is that theyd deduct your 2000 from the total, take you off the account, and then try to go after your ex for the rest. 