Debt Collection Requirements

If you are like the majority of Americans, you probably carry an uncomfortable amount of credit debt. While it is the debt collector’s job to obtain payment for your creditor, they are required to adhere to certain rules.

Fair Debt Collection

Debt collectors are notorious for pushing the boundaries of appropriate debt collection practices. Besides making repeated calls or using threats when attempting to collect, they are actually supposed to follow a protocol. The collector is required to send you a written notice telling you the amount of money owed, the name of the creditor who carries the debt and what action may result of the debt is not paid. However, if you wish to fight this collection activity you can do the following:

• Request written proof of your debt, verifying that you are the owner and sole responsible party for the amount owed.
• Research the collection agency with the Better Business Bureau and verify with your creditor that the collection agency is legitimately representing them.
• Send a written notification of your intent to cease communications with the collector within five days of receiving the collector’s notice.
• Contact your creditor directly to enter debt negotiations.