This article provides a template for a debt settlement proposal letter and explains what a debt settlement letter should contain. The first step in a debt settlement negotiation with a bank, credit card company, or collection agency is to confirm the debt belongs to you.The contact details of the creditor or collection agency will be in the lawsuit letter. Most debt settlement letters include: The date, name, and address of the credit card company. Your debt settlement proposal letter must be formal and clearly state your intentions and what you expect from your creditors. If you send your letter certified mail and ask for a return receipt, that gives you proof of what the issuer got. To settle credit card debt before court, contact creditors early, negotiate a payment plan or lump-sum settlement, and respond promptly to lawsuits. Use this letter to help you negotiate a full and final settlement offer with a creditor. If your case is dismissed with prejudice (that means the debt buyer cannot file again), dispute the debt with the credit agencies. Use this letter to help you negotiate a full and final settlement offer with a creditor.