DEBT COLLECTION

Make the collector prove it

Your rights under CFPB rules

Photo: Tony Webster / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0

The notice

5 DAYS

Validation notice

Collectors must send it in the first contact or within 5 days.

Photo: Tony Webster / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0

Dispute window

30 DAYS

To dispute in writing

Dispute in writing in about 30 days and collection must pause.

Photo: Tony Webster / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0

Send it right

CERTIFIED

Mail your letter

Use certified mail and keep a copy and the receipt.

Photo: Tony Webster / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0

No admission

SILENCE

Is not agreement

Not disputing doesn't mean you admit you owe.

Photo: Tony Webster / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0

Call limits

7 IN 7

Calls in 7 days

More than 7 calls in 7 days is presumed harassment.

Photo: Tony Webster / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0

Old debts

3–6 YRS

Typical time limit

Many states limit lawsuits to 3 to 6 years.

Photo: Tony Webster / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0

Credit report

7 YRS

Max on report

Collections can stay up to 7 years from delinquency.

Photo: Tony Webster / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0

Your rights

$1,000

Extra damages

You can sue within 1 year for violations.

Photo: Tony Webster / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0

Get the free letter steps

Full guide and template

Read the guide

nexgenheadlines.com

Photo: Tony Webster / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0