How to Validate a Collection Agency Debt

If you do not pay your bills on time, a creditor may seek to collect the debt from you via a collection agency. The collection agency may repeatedly call you and attempt to make you pay the debt. Personal or household debts, such as credit cards, are covered by the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, which is enforced by the Federal Trade Commission. Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, it is your right as a consumer to validate a debt with a collection agency.

Instructions

1. Call the debt collection agency. Ask a representative at the agency for the amount of the debt and the alleged owner of the debt. Take notes of what the representative tells you.

2. Write a letter to the debt collection agency. In your letter, state that you dispute the validity of the debt. Request written documentation that proves that you actually owe the debt. Ask for the identity of the owner of the debt. Ask whether the debt has been sold or transferred to another party. Sign and date the letter.

3. Mail the letter to the debt collection agency by certified mail. Make a photocopy of the envelope and letter for your records. The agency is required by the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act to respond to your letter with the relevant documentation. Review the documents to determine whether the debt is valid.

Tips & Warnings

• The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act does not apply to business debts.

References

• Federal Trade Commission: Facts for Consumers
• Fair Debt Collection Practices Act