Debt collection services, banks and credit card companies can be ruthless when trying to collect a debt. Many times consumers will avoid answering their phone calls or letters because they can be so intimidating. For those that do engage in conversation regarding a debt, even explaining yourself or asking for validation on the debt can be met with even more hostility and anger. That is why it is important to know your rights and to keep your cool while speaking to creditors.
Typically a creditor will try to make contact with you regarding debt they believe you owe. If the debt goes on for a substantial amount of time, the lender will look to sell your debt or hire an agency to collect it for them. When this happens, the company that has taken over the debt will try relentlessly to intimidate you into settling the account. This is because they make money only after the debt has been paid.
For consumers, the harassing techniques collection agencies use can be exhausting, frustrating and scary. To effectively deal with harassing creditors, consumers should stand their ground, know their rights and keep their cool. If you do not agree with a debt that a company believes you owe, contacting the agency is the best place to start sorting it out. Occasionally they will listen to you and help you resolve the matter. If they provide you with proof that you still don’t agree with, you may want to contact the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to file a complaint.
Collection efforts end up on your credit report so avoiding them isn’t a good idea. However, if you believe they are not correct and you have not been provided proof by the agency handling them, you can also request that the three main credit reporting agencies look into the matter for you. If they are not provided with proof of the debt either, the collection account may be removed from your credit report.
Dealing with creditors and collection agencies can be frustrating, especially when you don’t agree with the account in question. If all previous attempts to resolve the matter have not been successful, you may benefit by speaking to an attorney.