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Step 1
The first thing to do is not be afraid. Debt collectors will threaten you with the Sheriff, going to jail, wage garnishment, etc. You need to know you have rights and will not tolerate this kind of behavior.
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Step 2
If you get an abusive phone call, ask for the address of the collector. Be advised that not all collectors will give a business address and will try to tell you that you have to make a payment over the phone first. So if you can't get an address, ask for a phone number or get the phone number off of your caller i.d. (in case you need to google it).
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Step 3
Once you have an address, then sent out a letter such as this; however, be sure to personalize it, as every situation is different.
Dear ABC Collector:
I am writing in response to phone call/letter received from you on date xx/xx/xx. Pursuant to my rights under federal debt collection laws, I am requesting that you provide validation of this debt. Note this is not a refusal to pay, but a request that your offices provide me with evidence that I have a legal obligation to pay you. I also request that you provide me with the name and address of the original creditor and copies of all documents which pertain to the alleged debt.
I would also like to request, in writing, that no telephone contact be made by your offices to my home or to my place of employment. If your offices attempt telephone communication with me, including but not limited to computer generated calls and calls or correspondence sent to or with any third parties, it will be considered harassment and I will have no choice but to file suit. All future communications with me MUST be done in writing and sent to the address noted in this
letter.
This letter shall also serve as a reminder that you must cease collection of the debt, or any disputed portion thereof, until you obtain verification of the debt and the name and address of the original creditor and mail that information to me.
Sincerely,
Your Name (Print Only-Do Not Sign)
