Joining the Air Force?

I want to join the Air Force. I went to see a recruiter, but he informed me that I would have to either pay off, or set up payment arrangements on any delinquent accounts that are on my credit report. Is this a normal procedure? Is it really this difficult to get in to the USAF? Also, he stated once I get signed up there's a 3-5 month waiting list until you get called in to basic. I have never heard of such a thing. Just curious if what he's telling me is all B.S. or if this is for real.