By: Arthur Cooper
Submitted: 2011-03-31 23:43:56 | Word Count: 664
We all know what a hassle it is to have a dispute with a collection agency. It can be the absolute worse. The process is lengthy, undesirable and overwhelming for most. There are many stresses that can be associated with dealing with credit collections agency including emotional distress due to the harassment. If ever you are feeling as if you are being harassed by a collection agency please be sure to carefully document calls or letters and keep track of all correspondence. If you are certain that you are being harassed in error, it is suggested that you submit a dispute letter.
There are a few things to know about writing a dispute letter. When writing a dispute letter always be sure that the letter is written in a professional manner to ensure that your concerns will be taken seriously and with the greatest consideration. Include the date, your name and address along with the collectors name and address on the top of the letter.
[ advertisement ]
In the body of the letter is where you really have the opportunity to express your concerns and address all urgent issues. Explain that you are writing your letter in response to the letter or phone calls you’ve received and you feel you have been wrongly accused of owing money and detail any misinformation. It is a great idea to include a snippet of the law explaining that in accordance to Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, Section 809(b): Validating Debts:
(b) If the consumer notifies the debt collector in writing within the thirty-day period described in subsection (a) that the debt, or any portion thereof, is disputed, or that the consumer requests the name and address of the original creditor, the debt collector shall cease collection of the debt, or any disputed portion thereof, until the debt collector obtains verification of the debt or any copy of a judgment, or the name and address of the original creditor, and a copy of such verification or judgment, or name and address of the original creditor, is mailed to the consumer by the debt collector.
Be sure to request that the collection agency provides you with the name of the creditor to whom the debt is owed, the amount of the debt, verification or copy of any judgment and proof that the agency is licensed to collect debts in your state.
Let the agency know that they cannot add interest or fees except those allowed by state law or the original contact. Also, since you disputed the debt within 30 days of receiving your dunning notice the agency must obtain verification of the debt or a copy of the judgment against you and mail those items.
Explain to the agency that you have been keeping accurate records or your correspondence and you will report violations of the law to the Federal Trade Commission, the Better Business Bureau and the State Attorney General.
Be sure to send your letter certified mail so that you know when it’s signed for. If you would like more information or letter samples please do not hesitate to visit CreditElves at www.CreditElves.com
