Tips On How To Deal With Debt Collectors

1. Communicate with debt collectors only in writing. Don’t talk on the phone or meet them in person.
   
   
2. Don’t be afraid to hang up.
   
   
3. Record the dates and times that you were called. Calling you excessively to harass or annoy you is a violation of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act.
   
   
4. Make sure every communication from a debt collector includes a written statement explaining your right to dispute the debt. If you disagree that you owe the debt or the specific amount, wait to get the written statement from the debt collector and then send your response in writing. Say you dispute the debt and request verification of the debt.
   
   If you send your written response within thirty (30) days of receiving their statement about your right to dispute the debt, the collection agency is not permitted to contact you until the verification is sent. Don’t forget to send your response by certified mail so you will have proof that you sent it.
   
   
5. Send all letters by certified mail with return receipt so you will have proof of the dates that your letters were received by the debt collector.
   
   
6. Don't give them any information unless there is clear proof that you don't owe the debt. Always send copies, not originals.
   
   
7. Save copies of everything, including the envelopes from the debt collector.