I had some medical issues in 2005 that eventually led me to despair, I had already rebuilt my status post divorce in 1999.... I am again rebuilding, if some charge offs (low amounts) are on my credit report and I repay them at the (offered lower rate) or have contact with these companies....If I pay will this be reporte as paid as owes? I would like to pay them but as I am in a rebuilding phase w/ a new secured card from my bank and another small amount unsecured card (rebuilding only)...I don't know? I have heard you should get a letter from said company that states they will notift the credit bureau of your being paid. I am wanting to return to shcool and will need school loans. I have a current student loan already for aboout 3,000 I am paying on. I want go to Vanderbilt which is very expensive so I will need funds to continue on that level. Thanks for your advice/help. suziestew