So Empowering!

[SuzieBK]

We've been getting calls from our creditors for a few weeks now--since we stopped paying. I've been so nervous about the calls, not wanting to be yelled at (silly, I know) and my husband has been slowly going nuts with the phone ringing incessantly. We retained our attorney about 10 days ago, but I hadn't wanted to even answer the calls, so I kept putting it off.

Finally, just a few minutes ago, I answered my first call. It was so easy! The guy went through his spiel about our being late and at the first pause I interrupted and said that all of our financial matters were being handled by our attorney. He asked if we were filing bk and I said that he would need to discuss it with our attorney. He didn't persist, but I was prepared to keep saying that over and over. I gave him the attorney's name and phone number--we're not filing for a while, but we can at least refer the calls.

He did ask to confirm our mailing address, which I assume is for a judgment if necessary. I figured they had it in our files already--it hasn't changed and won't be changing--so I gave it to him. He then asked for work and cell numbers, which I declined to give him. After that he wished me well and that was it.

I know that so many of us are freaked out at telling someone that we're not going to pay them, but it really made me feel like it was the next step in a positive direction. Now I can't wait for the phone to ring again!

[DaisysMom]

Yes, good for you!! You handled it really well. It is not so bad if you can keep control of the converstaion, which you did. And if they get pushy, as some do, just interrupt and tell them once again to talk to your attorney and politely hang up.

Since I have told them about my lawyer and referred to him, the calls have decreased alot. I can't wait to file, then the calls will stop completely.

D....

[kenshirley]

Be aware that they can still call you until you file and the stay is in place.
Just don't answer the phone, use that caller ID.
And if you have to change your number and make it unlisted.
The cost is well worth the piece of mind.

[cltmoto]

Calls

I haven't filed yet (will in the next 2 weeks) but retained my attorney two weeks ago. Started answering the phone - life has been so much better since then. 4 of 5 are very friendly once you give the information - only Amex has been a bunch of jerks (see my other post). Once you have decided to file, go ahead and answer - you'll be amazed at how much more relaxed you'll be once the phone stops ringing. I've only had BOA call back twice in two weeks, both times looking for my case #. When I said I didnt have it yet, they just said they'd try again later.

Hmmm- I wonder how long I could keep doing this? Perhaps I don't need to file... (just kidding).