How to Respond to Debt Collectors

Below is a checklist of how to respond to debt collectors when you are first contacted by them. Remember, you have many rights and many debt collectors do break the laws when trying to collect debt from you. Know how to respond to debt collectors and you will be at an advantage.

The first thing to do when responding to debt collectors is to get contact information for the debt collector, including the name, phone number and address. Secondly, if you think the debt being collected is incorrect, dispute immediately.

To dispute a debt, write to the collection agency to formally dispute the debt as well as request verification. Remember to send your debt dispute letter by certified mail with return receipt requested. By law, the collection agency must provide you with verification.

Should I dispute legitimate debt?

In general, disputing debt is a good thing because if the debt is legitimate, then you have bought yourself some time to figure out what to do. By disputing the debt, your debt collection account is placed under the 'dispute' category. This delays the work of the collection agency and the debt collectors. In general, respond to debt collectors with a dispute if you can.

File all responses to and from debt collectors

When dealing with debt collectors, evidence is key because it's their words against yours in most cases. File everything and take notes of everything said, written, or done with verification. The more evidence you have to back up your words, the more credible. Keep a file of all responses to and from debt collectors.

Check the statute of limitations

Some old debts have expired and some out of state debts may need to be handled differently. Verify that the collection agency and debt collectors are not violating the laws and your rights. Many debt collectors have been known to use scare tactics and tried to collect debts that have long expired, so watch out.

Do not pay the debt collectors!!!

Many people fall for the scare tactics and pay the debt collectors too soon. Do not pay the debt collectors until you have established the debt is legitimate and worked out a payment arrangement. Many debt collectors have been known to try to use their powers in a dishonorable way so expect debt collectors to try any crafty methods on you but don't fall for them.