Debt Consolidation: How to Stop Collection Calls and Letters

Disputing a Collection

Debt consolidation and debt management are tools you can use to consolidate debts and better manage your budget and credit. However, if you have fallen behind to the degree where collectors are calling you, you can fend off the attack by disputing a collection with each of the three credit reporting agencies, or TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian.

The Debt may be Obsolete

Find out the statute of limitations on the debt – it may be obsolete if it has been on your credit report for over seven years. However, if the debt is not older, then ask for confirmation from the collector. After all, you have a right to ask for verification as you don’t really know who is asking about the amount if your account has been turned over to a collection agency.

Ask to See Documented Proof that you Owe the Debt

You will need to ask the collector to demonstrate written proof that they own the obligation. You will need proof in the form of the copy of the loan agreement or credit application that shows your signature. If they cannot possess documented proof, then they can’t continue to contact you about the debt.

If Proof isn’t Established, then you are in your Legal Right to File Suit against the Collection Agency

Make sure all your communication is in writing so it can stand up in a court of law if needed, especially if the collector continues to contact you and was not able to show proof for the collection. If a collector cannot confirm your information, then you need to report them to the three credit bureaus before filing a lawsuit.

Proof is Required per the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act

If you send the collection agency correspondence to verify the account and they inform you the request needs to be written by your creditor, they are incorrect or sadly misinformed. Collectors are obligated to show you proof of the account on which they are collecting according to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act.

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