Responding To Debt Collectors

Summary

If you receive a debt collection letter for a debt you dont owe, respond promptly in writing. Clearly state that you are not responsible for the debt and request that the debt collector cease communication. Reference Minnesota state law and the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) in your letter. Sending the letter via certified mail with a return receipt is advisable to have proof of receipt. While phone calls are an option, written communication is more reliable and provides a record.

Full Conversation

I got a letter in the mail from a debt collector, for a debt I am not responsible for. The debt is for a man who was my step dad 20 years ago who passed away last year. How do I tell this to the debt collectors
Hi ****,
It’s important to respond to the debt collector promptly and in writing. Here are the steps you can take:
- State clearly that you are not responsible for the debt.
- Mention that the person in question was your stepfather and has passed away.
- Request that they cease contacting you about this debt.
Would you like a sample letter to send to the debt collectors?
yes
Hi ****,
Here's a sample letter you can send to the debt collectors:
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[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Date]
[Debt Collector's Name]
[Debt Collector's Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Re: [Account Number, if any]
Dear [Debt Collector's Name],
I am writing in response to your letter dated [date of the letter] regarding the debt allegedly owed by [your stepfather’s name]. I am not responsible for this debt as [your stepfather’s name] was my stepfather, who passed away last year.
Please cease all communication with me concerning this debt. According to New York state law and the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), I request that you stop contacting me about this matter.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
---
Make sure to send this letter via certified mail with a return receipt requested, so you have proof that the debt collector received it. Let me know if you need any further assistance!
can you recreate the sample letter so that it references minnesota state law
Sure, ****. Here is the revised sample letter referencing Minnesota state law:
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[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Date]
[Debt Collector's Name]
[Debt Collector's Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Re: [Account Number, if any]
Dear [Debt Collector's Name],
I am writing in response to your letter dated [date of the letter] regarding the debt allegedly owed by [your stepfather’s name]. I am not responsible for this debt as [your stepfather’s name] was my stepfather, who passed away last year.
Please cease all communication with me concerning this debt. According to Minnesota state law and the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), I request that you stop contacting me about this matter.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
---
Make sure to send this letter via certified mail with a return receipt requested. Let me know if you need any further assistance!
the letter i got from the debt collector says to call or mail them. Can a phone call work, or is that a bad idea?
Hi ****,
It's generally better to respond in writing to a debt collector. A written response provides a record of your communication and can be used as evidence if needed. Phone calls can be less reliable and harder to prove.
Would you like further assistance with this matter?