When a debt collector contacts you, they have 30 days to prove you actually owe the money. If they can't, they have to stop. Here's how to trigger that requirement.
What Is Debt Validation?
Under the FDCPA, you have the right to demand proof that:
- The debt exists
- You're the person who owes it
- The amount is correct
- The collector has the right to collect it
This is called "debt validation." You trigger it by sending a written request within 30 days of the collector's first contact.
Why This Works
Debts get sold multiple times. Records get lost. Collectors often can't prove what they claim.
When you send a validation letter:
- They MUST stop collecting until they validate
- They can't report to credit bureaus until they validate
- If they can't validate, they have to leave you alone
How to Send a Debt Validation Letter
Step 1: Send Within 30 Days
You have 30 days from their first communication. Don't wait.
Step 2: Use Certified Mail
Always send certified mail with return receipt requested. This proves they received it.
Step 3: Keep It Simple
Your letter should:
- Reference the debt they're collecting
- Dispute the debt
- Request validation
- Tell them not to contact you until they validate
Sample Debt Validation Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP]
[Date]
[Collector Name]
[Collector Address]
RE: Account Number [XXXXX] (their reference number)
To Whom It May Concern:
I am writing in response to your [letter/call] dated [date]. I dispute this debt and request validation pursuant to 15 U.S.C. § 1692g.
Please provide:
- Documentation proving I owe this debt
- The name and address of the original creditor
- A copy of any judgment (if applicable)
- Proof that you are licensed to collect debts in [your state]
- Proof that you own or are authorized to collect this debt
Until you provide this validation, you must cease all collection activities.
This is not a refusal to pay, but a request for verification as allowed by law. If you cannot validate this debt, I request that you cease collection and remove any negative reporting from my credit reports.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]
What Happens Next
If They Validate
They send documents proving the debt. Review carefully - look for:
- Is the amount correct?
- Is this actually your account?
- Are the documents legitimate?
- Did they respond within a reasonable time?
If They Can't Validate
They must stop collecting. If they don't:
- Each continued contact is an FDCPA violation
- Reporting to credit bureaus is an FDCPA violation
- You can sue for $1,000+ per violation
If They Ignore You
Some collectors keep calling despite the letter. Document everything. They're racking up violations you can sue for.
Pro Tips
- Always dispute: Even if you think you owe it, dispute and request validation. Make them prove it.
- Keep copies: Copy everything before mailing
- Send to the right address: Use the address on their letter, not a generic corporate address
- Don't admit anything: Your letter shouldn't say "I know I owe this but..."
The Bottom Line
The debt validation letter is your first move. It puts the burden on them to prove their case - and many can't.
Send it within 30 days, keep copies, and watch what happens. Either they prove the debt and you can deal with it, or they can't and they have to stop.
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