Requesting Validation of a Debt

Not all debt collectors contacting you are seeking to collect a genuine debt. Some collectors may try to trick consumers into paying debts that are not real or have already been settled. Federal law grants you the right to ask a debt collector to provide evidence that you owe a debt. This is the most effective way to ensure that you are not paying a debt that you do not owe or a debt that the collector is not authorized to collect on. The validation request must be made in writing within 30 days of the collector's initial contact with you to be protected under debt collection law. Phone requests are not legally protected, so it is crucial to communicate in writing.

How to Draft a Debt Validation Letter

When writing a debt validation letter, include details of the first contact with the collector, such as the date and method of contact, for example, "a phone call received on April 25, 2019." Request validation of the debt without admitting to owing the amount or making any payment references. Send the letter via certified mail for proof of mailing and receipt. The collector is required to halt collection activities until they provide adequate proof of the debt, including the original creditor information, account details, and debt amount.

Sample Debt Validation Letter

Collector's Response to Validation Request

If the collector fails to provide debt proof, their collection efforts are in violation of debt collection laws. If they do send proof, confirm the debt's statute of limitations, and decide on payment options. Settling the debt resolves the obligation, and you may negotiate a reduced sum. If the debt is beyond the statute of limitations, you can choose to ignore it, but collections may persist indefinitely.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does a collector have to respond to a debt validation letter? When should I request debt validation?