Dealing with Debt Collectors
If you're dealing with debt collectors, don't procrastinate. There are actions you must take immediately to defend yourself, especially if you think you don't owe the debt.
Begin by selecting which situation applies to you.
I don't owe this debt (or I'm not sure)
Actions you can take
Never pay a debt you think don't owe: demand evidence first. Debt collectors must first provide you with a debt validation notice, followed by proof that you owe the debt when requested. Then, put an end to incessant calls and harassment. Follow the steps below.
Letters you may need
When dealing with debt collectors, you need a paper trail, and that means sending letters. Use our free and downloadable templates to create the letters you need quickly, and avoid as much hassle as possible.
I do owe this debt
Actions you can take
When you owe a debt, it's best to pay it off. But if you're struggling financially and can't afford to pay your debt collector, there are ways to try to pay less than you owe. Follow these steps to ask for a discount on your debt, pay them off, or get help from professionals.
Letters you may need
Even if you owe money, don't be intimidated by debt collectors—negotiate as hard as you can. There's no harm in asking to pay less or to get items removed from your credit report. Download our free letter templates and get started immediately.
Student Loan & Medical Debt in Collections
Different types of debts come with different sets of rules, problems, and solutions. Here's what you need to know if your debt in collections is in a special category, like medical or student loans.
Debt Collection Laws & Legal Resources
If you're being hounded by collectors who are damaging your credit for debts you don't owe, here's how US law protects you from those unfair practices.
What is the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA)?
The FDCPA is a law that protects borrowers from predatory debt collectors and harmful debt collection practices.
What is the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)?
The FCRA is a law that promotes accuracy, fairness, and privacy of consumer information contained in the files of consumer reporting agencies like Experian, Transunion, and Equifax.
Submit a Complaint
Having trouble with a financial product or service? If you've already tried reaching out to the company and still have an issue, you can submit a complaint directly with the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau.
Start a complaintDebt Collection and Your Credit
Collection accounts severely damage your credit score. Learn how your credit is affected by collections, what your path to recovery will look like, and specific strategies for fixing your credit report.
Learn About Your Debt Collector
There are thousands of debt collection agencies in the United States. Learn who's trying to collect from you, who they're collecting for, how to contact them, and whether they have a history of breaking debt collection laws.
