Good settlement offer, what should I counter?

Most collection agencies will have a settlment limit which is usually 75%. I would definatley take a 50% sif. Especially if you rightfully owe the full amount.

You should take responsibility for your actions and payoff the entire 14k. Dont be so greedy.

I would request that the settlement be on paper, so you will have proof. Also, I would pay by cashier's check or money order, and also make a copy for yourself.

Guest must be an employee of ARS. They just called me and violated every fdcpa rule. Told me to find an attorney and all that, that they we're coming after me. I laughed.

Be advised that a collections agency does not have to settle your account with anything but their offer.

Be prepared for your offer to be rejected but if accepted be prepared to pay it quickly. A settlement below 75% usualy has to be paid before closeout of the same month.

Taking a settlemnt offer for the first time could lower your credit score by 100 points but if you have before then the next ones don't hurt as much.

Depending on if the company owns the debt or not will give you lead to negotiate if the mark will be removed or not.