I recently dealt with UF because Amex turned my account over to them to collect what I owed. I went into it with a negotiating mindset, and managed to talk them out of $700! I also made sure that I told them that the "how/why" of the debt was none of their business, and I also refused to give them my SSN, but asked if they could use my old Amex account instead (which they did).
I would suggest watching "Maxed Out" which has some interesting insight into debt collecting agencies, and then instead of answering the phone when they call, making a plan to call them instead, and put on your "Super
****" hat. By calling them you take them by surprise, and then, when you have something to offer them, it equals the playing field, and takes them off guard. Always write down their name, and use it frequently during the call, and never get sucked into any emotional games. If you can, record the call on your end - you can even let them know that you are doing so.
****Adult term removed - Jason