Tough times hit everyone. When you think you are stuck with no where to go, these quick tips will help you in dealing with creditors.

1. Be assertive- When dealing with creditors and go for as much as you can. Creditors want to be paid and are willing to take substantialy less payment than what is owed to them.

2. The show biz rule-"Don't call us we'll call you".

You want to be the person initiating any sort of agreement. Call them, don't wait until the creditors are calling you.

3. Don't be a jerk- Many people think that the squeeky oil gets the wheel but being a jerk won't help you any.

4. Take notes- Always write down who you spoke to and when you spoke with them. This is very important, if you are offered a settlement, but don't know who offered it to you then you lose credibility.

5. Get it in writing- This one might be the most important! Having something in writing is the only real proof you have. I call this one the court T.V. rule. Every time you watch court tv their is always someone who doesn't have proof in writing.

6. Never give them bank access- It is better to send them a check or process the payment on your own. This will keep you out of a bind if the creditors try and squeeze you for all your cash.

7. Check your credit report- Credit reports are full of mistakes and you don't want to flip someone else's bill.

8. Be honest- If you agreed to do something then do it. If you can't make a payment always let the creditor know as soon as possible and set up a date to reschedule the payment. Another posibility is making a lesser payment it shows that you are making an effort to repay them.

9. Negotiate Late Fees- Creditors have the ability to waive certain fees. You should have all of your over the limit and late fees reversed or at least stopped while you are repaying your debt.

10. Don't Stress- You can only do what you can do. As long as you are trying your best the creditors will work with you.

Just follow these quick tips for dealing with creditors and you will catch up on your bills and live stress free.