How to Request Information From Debt Collector?
When debt collectors come calling, you have specific rights that need to be upheld. One of these rights is to request detailed information about the debt. Believe it or not, you may have debts out there that you don’t remember, or aren’t sure about. Sometimes, if a debt is sold to a debt collection company, or many, it can take a long time for them to obtain your information and reach out to you.
Local Lawyer Offices Discuss Your Rights Concerning Debt Collectors
Some debts are larger and have gone through multiple companies. In this case, where the debt has been in existence for many years, you may not be aware of the full details. You want to make sure that you know how much you have paid, how much the original debt was, and how much interest has been added.
If you have any doubts about a debt, do not automatically accept that you owe the debt. Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, a debt collector is required to send you validation of your debt within five days of contacting you. If you do not receive this validation, or are not satisfied with the details, you can request validation. In order to do this, you will write a letter to the debt collector.
The letter you send should include the date, your full name, and your address. If possible, it should also include the account number you are requesting information about. In the letter, refer to the form of contact you received, whether it be a phone call or letter. Make sure you state the date of the original contact. If your request is within 30 days of being contacted, the debt collector must provide the name and address of the original collector.
You should receive validation back which includes the name of the original creditor and the amount owed. It should also include instructions on how to dispute the debt.
The one case in which you should hold off on requesting debt validation is if you are sure that the debt is legitimate and is yours. The first thing you should do if this is the case is contact a debt collection defense attorney. You should not try to handle communication with the debt collector on your own, as you may not be aware of your rights. Local lawyer offices will be able to advise you. Admitting the debt and trying to handle it on your own could result in you paying when you are no longer responsible, or paying a higher amount.
If you receive a call from a debt collector, call the local lawyer offices of Michael A. Ziegler. You could find yourself surprised at what can be done on your behalf about your debt.
Source: Federal Trade Commission
