If you feel like you’re drowning in debt, you’re not alone. Americans currently carry more than $12.73 trillion in consumer debt, and over $1 trillion of that comes from credit cards alone. Sound familiar? Debt collection pressure is at an all-time high, so it’s likely you’ll receive plenty of calls from collectors. Ignoring them won’t make the debt disappear. Experts recommend answering the call and doing these three things:
#1 Verify that the collector and the debt are legitimate
When you answer, ask for:
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The name of the caller and the collection company
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The company’s address and phone number
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The name of the creditor
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The amount owed and how you can dispute or verify the debt
If they cannot provide this information during the first contact, request that they send it in writing before continuing the conversation.
#2 Identify the debt
If you recognize the debt, it may be time to negotiate and agree on a payment plan.
If you do not recognize it, request formal verification in writing. If you are certain the debt is not yours, send a written notice stating that it does not belong to you and that you do not want further contact regarding the matter.
#3 Keep everything in writing
Over the phone it often becomes a situation of “I never said that.” For your requests to have legal standing under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), they should be made in writing.
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Keep the letters you receive.
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Make copies of everything you send.
These documents may be useful if you need to dispute the debt later.
Take Back Control with Safe Credit Solutions
Are you receiving harassing calls? Multiple calls per day? Are collectors filling up your voicemail or calling at all hours? You do not have to tolerate it. The team at Safe Credit Solutions can inform you of your rights and help defend you. Contact us today to learn how we can help.
This will not increase your debt. In fact, our services are completely FREE.
In some cases, our assistance may even reduce what you owe. You could potentially receive up to $1,000, have your debt dismissed, and have your name removed from credit reports.
