This is one of the most important post I will put on this blog for beginners. Please take this to heart!
The most important thing you can do is dispute every collection letter you get. You must dispute the letter in writing within 30 days of receiving it to get the most protection under federal law (FDCPA). If you are past the 30 day time limit, still send a dispute letter but know that you have lost considerable rights.
Save a copy of the letter. Send the letter CERTIFIED MAIL. You may later need to prove you sent it, who you sent it to and when you sent it.
Here is a simple sample letter:
Date
Boiler Maker
Your Address
City, State Zip
Collection Agency
Collection Agency Address
City, State Zip
Re: Acct # XXXX-XXXX-XXXX-XXXX
To Whom It May Concern:
I am in receipt of you presentiment referring to an alleged debt. I was not aware of this alleged debt until now, and under my rights under the FDCPA, I request that you validate this debt.
I dispute this debt.
Sincerely,
Your Signature
Here is the specific law related to dispute letters:
FDCPA Section 809. Validation of debts [15 USC 1692g]
(b) If the consumer notifies the debt collector in writing within the thirty-day period described in subsection (a) that the debt, or any portion thereof, is disputed, or that the consumer requests the name and address of the original creditor, the debt collector shall cease collection of the debt, or any disputed portion thereof, until the debt collector obtains verification of the debt or any copy of a judgment, or the name and address of the original creditor, and a copy of such verification or judgment, or name and address of the original creditor, is mailed to the consumer by the debt collector.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Fight the good fight, Boiler
I owe you a big thank you. My little brother has had his fair share of collection letters and debt problems. Hopefully this letter as well as this blog will maybe steer him in the right direction.
Paul,
thanks for the feedback. It keeps me going knowing I am helping people out.
Most collection letters have at least one violation of the FDCPA, usually more than one.
ALSO, make sure you dispute every collection letter within 30 days. This prompt dispute will retain your rights as a consumer.
Best,
Boiler
It’s a such a relief to know that there are websites and individuals like yourself that care about the American consumer and honestly want to help them out. Due to many bad decisions I have had my share of problems with collection agencies so I know the pain. Now, I know what i can do to relieve some of that misery. Thanks.
Sheri,
Thanks for the comment. Let me know if I can assist you.
Boiler
As one who has failed miserably in writing a collection letter this is just what I have been looking for. This is awesome I can’t wait to do it right this time and finally get some results. Thank you, Thank you.
Jamison,
Remember to send this dispute letter in within 30 days of receiving the collection letter. That will maintain ALL of your rights under the FDCPA. If you do not send within 30 days, you still have rights… just not as many causes of action against a debt collector.
Thanks, Boiler.
This post is awesome! There is no question about it that a debt dispute letter can be a very effective way to clear up one’s credit report. With that being said, it is extremely important that the letter is written properly. The way this letter is written will either make or break an individuals chances of success here. Again, great job here!