You may see other information on your notice, but the information listed above generally must be included. If you think a debt collector failed to give you this information, you can submit a complaint with the CFPB.
Disputing a debt
Once you receive the debt validation information, you have 30 days to dispute the debt in writing. Failing to request verification in writing or within this time period can affect your ability to assert your rights under the debt collection rule.
Also, if you send the debt collector the written verification request or request for information about the original creditor within this 30-day period, the debt collector must pause collecting the amount of the debt you are disputing until they’ve adequately responded to your request.
If you’re being contacted by a debt collector, you have rights and protections under federal law, and the rights and protections apply to how and when they can contact you. Learn more about your debt collection protections.
Learn more about debt collection.
Still having trouble with debt collection?
Companies can usually answer questions unique to your situation and more specific to the products and services they offer. If you have a complaint, tell us about your issue—we’ll forward your issue to the company, give you a tracking number, and keep you updated on the status of your complaint.
Learn how the complaint process works
FAQs
Section 1006.34(c)(2)(vii) provides that validation information includes the amount of the debt on the itemization date. The amount of the debt on the itemization date includes any fees, interest, or other charges owed as of that date.
What does the debt collector have to tell me about the debt? ›
Your Right to a Validation of the Debt
After receiving your request, the debt collector must provide you with information about the debt, including the amount owed and to whom it was owed. Collection activities must stop until they provide this information.
What does a collection agency have to provide proof of debt? ›
A debt validation letter is a letter that debt collectors must provide that includes information about the size of your debt, when to pay it, and how to dispute it. A debt collection letter essentially proves you owe the debt collector money.
What information should you not give a debt collector? ›
Debt collectors may ask questions to verify your identity, but you should never provide sensitive or financial information, at least not until you've verified the debt and that it's not a scam.
What is the 777 rule with debt collectors? ›
The “777 Rule” states that debt collectors may attempt to contact a consumer about a single debt up to seven times in seven days. Phone numbers do not matter; it's the number of debts that matters.
How do you outsmart a debt collector? ›
You can outsmart debt collectors by following these tips:
- Keep a record of all communication with debt collectors.
- Send a Debt Validation Letter and force them to verify your debt.
- Write a cease and desist letter.
- Explain the debt is not legitimate.
- Review your credit reports.
- Explain that you cannot afford to pay.
The worst thing they can do
If you fail to pay it off, the collection agency could file a suit. If you were to fail to show up for your court date, the debt collector could get a summary judgment. If you make an appearance, the collector might still get a judgment.
What are 3 things that a debt collection agency Cannot do? ›
Debt collectors cannot harass or abuse you. They cannot swear, threaten to illegally harm you or your property, threaten you with illegal actions, or falsely threaten you with actions they do not intend to take.
Do debt collectors have to show proof of debt? ›
But what must the creditor provide by way of documentation? At a minimum, it must produce: A copy of the original written agreement between the parties, such as the loan note or credit card agreement, preferably signed by you.
Can you dispute a debt if it was sold to a collection agency? ›
Can you dispute a debt if it was sold to a collection agency? Your rights are the same as if you were dealing with the original creditor. If you do not believe you should pay the debt, for example, if a debt is stature barred or prescribed, then you can dispute the debt.
A collection account can significantly damage your credit score, but the impact lessens over time. Paying off a collection might not immediately improve your credit score, but some newer credit scoring models give less weight to paid collections.
How long before a debt becomes uncollectible? ›
What is the 11 word phrase to stop debt collectors? ›
If you are struggling with debt and debt collectors, Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC can help. As soon as you use the 11-word phrase “please cease and desist all calls and contact with me immediately” to stop the harassment, call us for a free consultation about what you can do to resolve your debt problems for good.
What is the 7 by 7 rule for collections? ›
The 7-in-7 rule explained
Collectors are permitted to place a call to the consumer about a particular debt seven (7) times within a period of seven (7) consecutive days, so long as no contact is made with the consumer in any of the attempts.
What is the new debt collection rule? ›
The FDCPA and Regulation F set forth broad prohibitions on using unfair, unconscionable, false, deceptive, misleading, harassing, abusive or oppressive practices or means to collect a consumer debt.
Will a debt collector sue me for $500? ›
What is the minimum amount a debt collector will sue for? Most debt collectors won't sue for less than $500. However, any unpaid debt can potentially result in collections legal action regardless of amount owed if the collector determines suing worthwhile.
Do debt collectors have to tell you who they are? ›
Under the FDCPA, debt collectors are required to identify themselves when they attempt to collect a debt as well as note that any information you give them will be used in an attempt to collect the debt. They also must give you the name of their company or agency.
Can a debt collector tell someone else about my debt? ›
Debt collectors usually can't contact people you know more than once and they can't say they're trying to collect on a debt. Generally, a debt collector can't discuss your debt with anyone other than: You. Your spouse.
