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It is critical that you take steps to address debt
collectors, especially when the debt is incorrectly credited
to you. Here is what to do if you are contacted by a debt
collector for a bill that is erroneously credited and
attempted to be collected on.
1)
Don’t ignore the debt agency. Immediately dispute the debt
in writing within 30 days of contact and send to the debt
collection agency using certified return receipt mail.
2)
Request verification of the debt. Request the debt amount,
original creditors name and address, written proof of both
the debt and verification from the debt agency that they
legally have the right to collect on the debt, because debt
collection scams are on the rise.
3)
Get legal assistance. If your efforts to get a debt agency
to cease and desist collection for erroneous debts are
ineffective seek legal assistance. You can find a list of
debt attorneys at
www.debt-collector-problems.com or complete a local or
internet search.
4)
Take them to court. If you win the minimum amount you could
potentially be awarded is $1,000. The key is to keep good
written records.
Is the debt correctly yours? Under the FDCPA you still have
legal rights to combat how a debt collection agency
interacts with you. For more information on the FDCPA visit
www.FTC.gov and look under debt collections.
© 2010 Ask Yvon is a written
by S. Yvon Harper for Focus on Finance, LLC - (513)383-0427.
All rights reserved. Contact or questions at
www.FocusOnFinanceOnline.com for
help in getting personal with finances. Listen online at
www.BlogTalkRadio.com/YvonSpeaks.
Readers are strongly urged to consult with a qualified legal
or tax advisor to analyze your specific financial situation
before application of any advice from this column.
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