[shelbylovesmelby]

Alot of times lenders would rather you pay them directly despite it being in collections. The collection companies take up to 60% of what they collect, rather than giving it to your creditor.

A secured credit card would be a nice way to start over. Start with something small like $500. Alot of times credit unions will give you a limit that small & if you have paid on time or early they may consider you for a regular card @ a lower rate & refund you your security deposit. And as far as purchases go buy only some thing little and make 2 pmts on it even if you can swing the full amt but it shows payment history w/out your debt getting out of hand.

Also I would start paying off the debt that is the least amount and work your way up to the larger ones. As you pay them off remember to get letters if they don't send them to you saying that the debt had been satisfied. Because it may take some time for the paid debts to fall off & some creditors don't report the amts paid off promptly either.