can a collection agency decline an offer below minimum payment when offered to them during a phone call?

Answer 1

yes, they often do as they please. But be persistant. Keep trying to work out a deal. Any deal you strike make sure oyu get it IN WRITING before you send money. And NEVER give them electronic access to your checking...always use money orders or cashiers checks.
If you send them money they will take it, just make sure that you keep track and ensure it is being applied. I would try and save up 50-60% of what you owe total and offer them that as a PAYMENT IN FULL...again get that in writing and keep it forever...
Don;t let them be rude to you either, if they do get that way hang up and whne they call back tell them that you are more than willing to work ith them to get this settled if they treat you with respect, otherwise they can scream at a dial tone.

Answer 2

From my experience, if you give a very good reason why you cannot pay the whole amount, I think so.
It depends on the collection agency!!
I've struck a few deals; AT&T was not reasonable at all.
It is best I feel to offer them a deal: I can pay it in 2 or 3 payments. And, make them on time!!
Agencies offer this service, but, you can do it yourself.
Again, also, ask if you can pay it in a few payments -- they may not be able to do it; so then call the original company that you owe the money to & they may work better w/you.
Go w/striking a deal first.

Answer 3

Collection agencies do not under any circumstance have to offer or accept a payment plan. The only thing they are required to do is give you 30 days to pay your bill in full under fdcpa.

So, yes, they can refused an unreasonable offer for a payment plan.

Answer 4

Sure! Why not! Their job is to get as much as possible out of you.

Don't waste your time with verbal offers. Make any offer in compromise IN WRITING and send it via certified mail. They'll know you are serious and you won't be dealing with the staff in the boiler room.