<prompt> Human: I somehow got incoming checks delayed from my job and couldnt pay my american express in Full for 3 months. So they quickly closed the account and sent it to the collection agency. Balance now is around 4931 Dollars. With American express card, you have to pay the balance in full every month. Anyway, I think the account has been with collection agency for 3 months. When calling the collection agency, should I pay it in full or settle with them for a certain Dollar amount. My main goal is I dont want this to affect my credit anymore. Would it make a difference if paid in full or for a different settlement amount?Thanks so much for your help. How long for credit to recover after this hiccup?  <response>: With American express card, you have to pay the balance in full every month.With American Express charge cards, this is the case. American Express also offers true credit cards that allow people to carry balances. Not that you should, of course. 