If you get a notice from a collection agency and you do not believe the debt is yours or don't think the credit agency can prove it is yours, you want to send a debt validation letter. Send the letter certified mail so that you can verify the date of receipt. The creditor then has 30 days in which to prove the debt is yours. To do this, they must provide a complete account history, signed documents, or previous statements. Providing the name and address of the original creditor, your social security number, or your address is not validation of the debt. If they can not validate the debt, they must cease all collection activity, including removing the collection from your credit report. Here is a sample validation letter.
January 21, 2010
Your Name
Address
City, ST zip
Collection Agency Name
Collection Agency Address
City, ST, zip
Re: Acct # 0000000000000
Dear Collector:
This letter is being sent to you in response to a notice sent to me on January 16, 2010. Be advised that this is not a refusal to pay, but a notice sent pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, 15 USC 1692(g) that your claim is disputed and validation is requested.
This is NOT a request for "verification" or proof of my mailing address, but a request for VALIDATION made pursuant to the above named title and section. I respectfully request that your offices provide me with competent evidence that I have any legal obligation to pay you.
Please provide me with the following: a simple accounting of the debt, the name and address of the original creditor, and the original account number. Also, please show me that you are licensed to collect in my state and provide me with your license numbers and your Registered Agent.
Your anticipated cooperation in this regard is greatly appreciated.
Best Regards,
Your Name
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