<prompt> Human: It has become increasingly popular for consumers to propose a pay for delete approach to debt collectors. I know debt collectors tend to push back on this approach. What are some good rules of thumb to remember when negotiating this? I know its some extra work on their end to get it done mdash; so is there a minimum debt amount to keep in mind when negotiating PfD?  <response>: Rule 1: Get it in writing before you pay by check or money order. Make sure the Pay for delete deletes EVERYTHING related to the trade line -- if the debt was resold to the collector you are paying, be sure they have promised to contact the original creditor about having BOTH trade lines removed. Make sure theres language to remove the info within 30 days.Just before you send a check after getting THEIR letter, write back with something like, I am in receipt of your letter of Day X, 2016. Per our agreement that you completely remove all trade lines from my credit report related to this issue, I will mail a check for YY.YY which you should receive in Z days. Cashing of my check will constitute your further agreement. Send via CMRRR .Wait 2 days, then mail the check as stated via CMRRR. Keep copies of all of this. Just in case the debt is resold, the trade line pops up again, etc.Rule 2: MAIL your check via Certified Mail Return Receipt Requested. On your check, reference the agreement in the memo line. Money order is OK if you dont have a check, but be sure to contact the issuer for a copy of the cancelled money order. 