Co-Signing = Taking on Other People's Problems

After 33 months of scrimping and depriving myself of middle-class luxuries, I finally paid off my last debt. Or so I thought.
I received a bill from a debt collector yesterday for $374 + $48 in interest and fees for an apartment that I co-signed on FOUR YEARS AGO.

They are offering me a 50% settlement of $211 and I'm taking it.

I will also never co-sign anything for anyone ever again. (My apologies to my future husband).

Parting Is Such Sweet Sorrow

Yesterday, I wrote and mailed a check for $980.67. I've been saving for 6 weeks to be able to write this check. It is the last check that I will have to write to a creditor (my car not withstanding) and I am relieved.

I'm temporarily broke but relieved just the same.

Here's a toast to financial freedom!

May I continue to keep my discipline and put my money to great use.

Settlements

I received a settlement offer from the last credit card company I owe money to. They are willing to take 40% off what they claim is my final balance. It's not that I don't have the money; it's that I don't want to give it to them.

There was a time when I was sending them $220 a month and it still wasn't enough to clear my balance. They've never been willing to negotiate with me in the past so (and I'm not saying that this is the right thing to do but) I stopped paying. I will find a way to get them their money if only so that I can get this yoke from around my neck.

And I promise you and myself too, I will never abuse another credit card. In the end it's not worth it. Because when I write them this check I will be sending them one-half of my vacation fund. *shaking my head* So not worth it.