One option may be to negotiate your credit card debt with your card issuers. Hardship planA credit card hardship plan is a temporary relief program (typically a few weeks to 12 months) that some credit card companies offer to borrowers who are experiencing short-term financial difficulties. Negotiate Your Credit Card Debt Yourself in 3 StepsShould you negotiate your credit card debt yourself? Step 3: Contact your credit card companyOnce you can explain your hardship and the help you need, contact your credit card company. Tips to Negotiate Your Credit Card Debt SuccessfullyNegotiating with your credit card issuers will probably take some time and effort—and perseverance.