Actual Conversation

Let me set the mood for this conversation that was just had.

I owe money to my family doctor. Not a huge sum. Less than $50. Two weeks ago, I sent a check for $10 because that's all I could afford at the time. And $10 is better than $0. At least to me, anyway. The doc cashed the check last week. And they called me today.

Doc Asst.: I am calling regarding your outstanding balance of $36. Are you able to pay that balance today?

Me: No. Didn't I just make a payment last week?

Doc Asst.: Let me see. (pulls up account) Yes, we have a payment of $10 credited to your account last week.

Me: So now I have to make another payment THIS week?

Doc Asst.: Well, understand that this account is outstanding.

Me: Right. I get that. But I just made a payment LAST week, and I haven't been paid between last week and this week. So there is no money to give you. You will have to wait until next paycheck.

Doc Asst.: And at that time, will you be able to pay off this account in full?

Me: I'm not sure. I will have to see what my budget looks like at that point in time. But I will be able to make some sort of payment, yes.

Doc Asst.: Would you like to make payment arrangements for that now?

Me: Um, no. I just told you, I don't know what my budget is at this point. So I will just send another check when I figure out how much I have left over.

Doc Asst.: Ok ma'am, but understand that this will be turned over to collection if you continue to not make payments.

Me: I HAVE made payments. And apparently that's not good enough. So I'll just continue to send in my $10 checks because I know your practice obviously can't function without it.

CLICK

Ugh! Seriously - why do collection people have to be so freakin' rude? Especially when I am making efforts to work with them?!