As a bill collector, we used to hate when a consumer requested a validation of debt. I remember some collectors would get upset and call out the consumer and say they were just stalling. The bill collector would even go as far as claiming the consumer was just trying to get out of their obligation, and implied they were thieves. I never used these tactics, but have witnessed it in many different places I have worked as a bill collector. I didn’t Like the FDCPA, but I knew why it was needed, for abusive collectors.

It is important to validate these debts, because I have seen where there have been mistakes. The most common is the debt has been paid. See “debt already paid” or “already settled” template letters. The bill collectors will pressure you in paying the debt again. I have seen debts paid three times, which is out right illegal. I have seen small shops operate like vigilantes and even threaten jail and claiming to be cops. When in actuality they are collecting on an old debt that had been settled and paid. it just so happens this agency purchased this debt from a company that didn’t correct its books properly. This is the most common error, an innocent one but a costly one for the consumer indeed. if you believe this debt is not yours, have been paid , or settled, you can down load this “Validation of debt” letter and send it to your creditors

With that said, always request Proof of debt and validate that you owe it.

Dispute of Validation

Sometimes a debt collector will supply the name of the creditor and an amount as “validation” that you owe a debt. If you do not agree, you can still dispute. This is not proof, they could have made up those numbers entirely. They do not like doing this and if you are persistent they often will leave you alone. It requires them to contact the original creditor and get the original contract. often they purchased these debts at such cheap rates until either the original creditor will not and may not be obligated to supply such information. These creditors have written this debt off after they sold it and can careless anymore. it is the thirsty debt collectors who get paid of they leftover amounts and they often add collections fees, boosting their profit potentials. this is illegal in many states, so check your state laws. if you feel they are ignoring your dispute and continues to send vague info, send “Dispute of Validation”