I actually have not made a payment in about a year. From what I understand, a settlement offer will not be made until it goes to a CA. I know that for BOA you can submit a hardship request. I'm not sure what that entails but to my understanding they'll work with you a bit more on interest rates.
I stopped making my payments because I knew there was no chance of me ever being able to pay off the full balance, especially because I've had such a hard time finding a job.
I'm kind of learning as I go. The best piece of advice: be persistent.