Banks tend to only make settlements in hopeless cases. They won't do it for example if you have a job than means you can continue to repay the debt. If you have a problem with the repayments on the balance of 3K, have a meeting with them prior to you mentioning the 5K to discuss your options. 'I am having problems servicing this debt, what can you do for me? I maybe able to pay of 1K would that mean you could give me better options (interest rate, lengthening of term) . If you just lodge the 5K they probably won't budge.