Mary owes $3,800 on her credit card. she sends the credit card company a check for $800 with the notation "payment in full" on the check. if the credit card issuer cashes the check:

The remaining debt amount is automatically wiped & should be adjusted to the new written contract (agreement). All debt is considered paid off, in full, & Mary should receive a letter of confirmation showing a zero balance/account closed/paid in full. Also, Mary can expect to see these views expressed to all 3 credit agencies.