Q: What do I do if a debt collector keeps contacting me?
A: Send a Debt Validation and Verification Letter
A debt validation letter is a tool for consumers to use when a debt collector starts harassing them.
If you receive a letter from a debt collector, keep that letter! There are laws that require specific information. If the debt collector does not include that information, you may be able to use that against them!
Once you receive the first letter, or first contact by a debt collector, you usually have thirty (30) days to send your own letter disputing the debt and requesting the company prove that it has a right to receive your hard-earned money. This letter will also require the debt collector to cease communication with you.
The letter must be in writing sent via certified mail (the green card) and include:
- Name of Debt Collector
- Address of Debt Collector
- Date of Letter
- Dear Sir or Madam
- “At this time, (insert name here) disputes owing any debt to (name of debt collector). I request the name and address of the original creditor. Be advised that (Name of debt collector) shall cease collection of this debt until (name of debt collector) obtains verification of the debt or a copy of a judgment or the name and address of the original creditor, and a copy of such verification or name and address of the original creditor is mailed to: (Insert Name and Desired Address here).”
- Sincerely, (insert name here)
Tips:
Once you send the certified letter, you will receive a green “slip” that has been signed by an employee of the company you sent the letter to. Keep that green slip. Do not throw it away.
The company has 30 days to respond to you. If they do not, then you may be able to use that against them. If they do, then consult with a consumer attorney. There are specific documents they are required to provide, and sometimes companies do not send the right documents.
If the debt collector continues to call you after you received the signed green “slip” call an attorney. The debt collector may have violated the law, and you may be able to use that against them!
