If a collector contacts you about a debt, you may want to talk to them even if you don’t think you owe the debt, can’t repay it immediately, or think that the collector is contacting you by mistake. If you decide after this that you don’t want the collector to contact you again, tell the collector – in writing – to stop contacting you. Here’s how to do that:

Make a copy of the letter they sent you and attach another document telling the debt collector either/or 1) that you do not owe the debt, 2) that you will not pay the debt, or 3) that you want them to stop contacting you. Be sure you put the date on the second letter, and be sure you make a copy of everything before you mail it. There is no requirement that you send the letter by certified mail, and pay for a “return receipt,” but you may want to do that to ensure you have proof. Once the collector receives your letter, they may not contact you again, with two exceptions: a collector can contact you to tell you there will be no further contact or to let you know that they or the creditor intend to take a specific action, like filing a lawsuit. Sending such a letter to a debt collector you owe money to does not get rid of the debt, but it should stop the contact. The creditor or the debt collector still can sue you to collect the debt.

If, after sending this letter to the debt collector or creditor, you receive any communications what so ever from them be sure that you immediately contact our office and discuss the matter. Generally speaking, any communication with you after you tell them one of these three things violates the law.