Debt Collection Validation Tips

Summary

Debt collectors in Pennsylvania must follow the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). They must provide debt validation upon request and cannot demand immediate payment without validation. Aggressive behavior and threats of legal action without validation are violations of the FDCPA. If a debt collector refuses to validate a debt or engages in harassment, you can report them to the Pennsylvania Attorney Generals Office or seek legal advice. Always request written proof of the debt and never provide payment details without validation. If you dont recognize the debt, dispute it in writing.

Full Conversation

Been getting calls from a collection agency but they won’t validate the debt and demand payment immediately
Hello ****, could you please share your location? This will help me provide the most accurate information regarding debt collection practices in your jurisdiction.
Pennsylvania
Hello ****, in Pennsylvania, debt collectors must follow the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA):
- Must provide debt validation upon request.
- Cannot demand immediate payment without validation.
- Cannot harass or intimidate.
If they don't comply, you can report them to the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office or consult with a lawyer.
Want to make sure this is legit before I give payment info over
Hello ****, you're right to be cautious. Never provide payment details without debt validation. If the agency doesn't comply, consider reporting them to the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office or seek legal advice.
They got very aggressive when I started asking questions and this debit is from *
Hello ****, sorry to hear about your experience. Did they provide any written communication or proof of the debt? In Pennsylvania, you have the right to request this. Aggressive behavior is a violation of the FDCPA. You may consider lodging a complaint for this behavior.
I don’t recall doing business with the company they are claiming the debit is with
Hello ****, it's important to seek proof of the debt. If you don't recognize it, you can dispute it in writing. If they can't provide proof, they can't collect it. If they continue, consider legal advice or reporting to the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office.
They claiming they mailed a letter 2 years ago
Hello ****, if they claim to have mailed a letter 2 years ago, ask them for a copy of this communication. Under the FDCPA, they need to prove the debt. If they fail to do this, you can dispute it. Consult with a lawyer if necessary.
And won’t resend it
Hello ****, if they are refusing to resend the validation notice, this is a violation of the FDCPA. You have the right to dispute the debt. Have you thought about seeking legal advice or reporting this to the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office?
Not sure what to do at this point why I am asking for info
Hello ****, based on the information you provided, here are your options:
- Continue requesting debt validation in writing.
- If they refuse or can't provide it, dispute the debt.
- Consider reporting them to the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office.
- Seek legal advice if necessary.
It is just scary when they say see you in court
Hello ****, I understand your concern. Remember, they can't legally sue you without validating the debt first. If they're threatening you with legal action, this could be a violation of the FDCPA. Have you considered consulting with a legal professional about this situation?