When you talk to a debt collector:
- Keep a notebook by your phone or with you
- Ask: What is your name, company, address, and phone number? Write the answers. Write the date and time you talked.
- Say: I will only talk when I get the written validation notice.
- If the collector threatens you or uses bad language, hang up. He is breaking the law.
- You can file a complaint about a debt collector by calling the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-382-4357.
When you get the validation notice:
- See if you recognize the debt. The notice should list the "creditor." The creditor is the person you owe money to. You can call the creditor to get more information.
- If you do not think the debt is yours, follow the instructions in the notice. It should tell you what to tdo next to question the debt.
- If the debt is yours, make a plan for how to pay it. Talk to a credit counselor.
If you want the collector to stop calling:
- Write a letter to the debt collector. Tell him to stop calling you immediately. Send the letter by Certified Mail and ask for a "return receipt." The law says he must stop calling you when he get your request in writing.
- If that debt collector still calls, file a complaint. Call the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-382-4357.