Your Step-by-Step Guide to Disputing Debt

It’s easy to assume that if a collection agency says you owe money, it must be true. But the debt collection system is full of errors. Debts get sold and resold, records get mixed up, and sometimes they simply have the wrong person. You should never pay a cent until the collector has proven the debt is valid, accurate, and legally yours. This is where disputing debt comes in. It’s your legal right to demand verification and press pause on all collection activities until you get it. Think of it as a necessary fact-checking mission to protect your finances. Ahead, we’ll break down exactly how to demand proof and what to look for when you receive it.

Key Takeaways

• Assert Your Rights with a Written Dispute: Sending a debt validation letter via certified mail within 30 days is your most effective first step. This action legally requires collectors to stop contacting you until they provide concrete proof that the debt is valid and that they have the right to collect it.
• Build Your Case with Meticulous Records: Your power comes from your proof. Keep a detailed log of every call, save every letter, and organize all your supporting documents in one place. This paper trail is essential for holding collectors accountable and strengthening your position.
• Escalate When Collectors Don't Cooperate: If a collector ignores your dispute or violates your rights, don't back down. You can file formal complaints with government agencies like the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) or consult a consumer protection attorney to enforce the law.

Know Your Rights in a Debt Dispute

When a debt collector contacts you, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or intimidated. But before you do anything else, take a deep breath and remember this: you have rights. Federal and state laws exist specifically to protect you from unfair practices. Understanding these protections is the first and most critical step in taking control of the situation. It shifts the power dynamic, allowing you to question the debt, demand proof, and ensure you’re treated fairly throughout the process. Let’s walk through the fundamental rights you need to know.

Is the Debt Actually Valid?

The first question you should always ask is whether you actually owe the money. It’s not uncommon for errors to occur. The debt might belong to someone with a similar name, the amount could be wrong, or it might be an old debt you’ve already settled. The burden of proof isn’t on you—it’s on the collector. The law requires debt collectors to provide you with key information, including the amount of the debt and the name of the original creditor. You have the right to dispute a debt and ask the collector to verify it. Never assume a collector’s claim is accurate without seeing the proof for yourself.

What the FDCPA Protects You From

The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) is your primary shield at the federal level. This law makes it illegal for debt collectors to use abusive, unfair, or deceptive tactics to collect from you. This means they can’t harass you with constant calls, use obscene language, or threaten you with violence. They also can’t lie about the amount you owe or misrepresent themselves as attorneys or government officials. One of the FDCPA’s most powerful tools is your right to request debt validation. When you dispute the debt in writing within 30 days of their first contact, the collector must stop all collection efforts until they provide you with proof.

Find Your State's Consumer Protections

While the FDCPA provides a strong foundation of rights, your state may offer even more protections. Many states have their own fair debt collection laws that can be stricter than the federal rules or cover collectors that the FDCPA doesn’t. It’s worth taking a few minutes to search for your state’s attorney general’s office or consumer protection agency online. For example, California’s Department of Justice provides clear guidelines for debt collectors and outlines where residents can file complaints. Knowing your local laws gives you an extra layer of defense and ensures you’re aware of every right available to you.

How a Dispute Affects Your Credit Report

Many people worry that disputing a debt will harm their credit score, but the opposite is often true. When you formally dispute a debt in writing, the collector is legally required to report the account as "disputed" to the credit bureaus. This notation signals to anyone who views your credit report—like potential lenders—that you are challenging the validity of the debt. If your dispute is successful and the collector cannot verify the debt, they must remove the negative item from your report entirely. This can lead to a significant improvement in your credit score, making the dispute process a crucial step in protecting your financial health.

How to Start Your Debt Dispute

When you’re facing a debt collection lawsuit, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But you have the right to question the debt and demand proof. Starting a formal dispute is a powerful first step in protecting yourself. It forces the collector to validate their claim and can stop collection calls while they investigate. Think of it as pressing the pause button so you can get the facts straight. Taking these organized steps will help you build a strong case and approach the situation with confidence.

First, Review Your Credit Report

Your first move should be to pull your credit reports from all three major bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Think of this as your fact-finding mission. Carefully scan each report for the debt in question. Does the amount match what the collector claims? Are the dates correct? Look for any inaccuracies, no matter how small, as well as accounts you don’t recognize, which could be a sign of identity theft. If you find a mistake, you’ll need to tell both the credit bureau and the business that reported the information. The Federal Trade Commission provides clear guidance on disputing errors on your credit reports and getting them corrected.

Gather Your Supporting Documents

Once you’ve reviewed your credit report, it’s time to gather all the paperwork related to the debt. This is your evidence, and the more you have, the stronger your position will be. Collect any documents that support your side of the story, such as copies of canceled checks, bank statements showing payment, or any previous correspondence you’ve had with the original creditor or the collector. If you already sent a debt validation letter, have a copy of that ready, too. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau explains that having this proof is crucial when a debt collector contacts you for a debt you don’t believe you owe.

Write an Effective Dispute Letter

Your dispute needs to be in writing to be legally effective. A phone call just won’t cut it. Your letter should be clear, professional, and to the point. Start by stating plainly that you are disputing the debt. Include your name, address, and the account number associated with the debt. Be sure to request that the collector provide verification of the debt, including documentation that proves you owe it and that they have the right to collect it. You can find more details on how to dispute a debt and what to include in your letter to make it as effective as possible. Always send your letter via certified mail with a return receipt requested so you have proof of when it was sent and received.

Send Your Dispute Letter on Time

Timing is everything when it comes to disputing a debt. Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), you have 30 days from the first time a collector contacts you to send a written dispute. When you dispute debt collection within this 30-day window, the collector is legally required to stop all collection activities—including phone calls and letters—until they send you verification of the debt. This is one of your most important rights in this process. Missing this deadline doesn’t mean you lose your right to dispute, but it does mean the collector can continue their collection efforts while they investigate your claim. Acting quickly puts the law on your side.

Document Every Conversation

From the very first phone call, keep a detailed record of every interaction you have with the debt collector. Create a log and note the date, time, and name of the person you spoke with, along with a summary of what was discussed. Save all letters, emails, and notices you receive. This paper trail is incredibly important, especially if the collector violates your rights or if multiple agencies are trying to collect the same debt. Having clear records helps you dispute debt collectors effectively and ensures you can hold them accountable for their actions. If your case ends up in court, this documentation can become invaluable evidence.

What is Debt Validation?

When a debt collector contacts you, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and pressured to act immediately. But before you do anything else, it’s important to understand one of your most powerful tools: debt validation. This is your legal right to ask a collector to prove that the debt they’re trying to collect is actually yours and that they have the right to collect it. Think of it as pressing the pause button. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) gives you the right to request this proof, but you generally need to act within 30 days of the collector's first contact.

Sending a debt validation letter forces the collector to stop their collection efforts until they can provide you with specific information verifying the debt. This is a critical first step for a few reasons. First, it confirms you’re dealing with a legitimate collector and not a scammer. Second, it helps you verify that the details of the debt—like the amount and the original creditor—are accurate. Mistakes happen all the time in the debt collection world, and you don’t want to pay for someone else’s error. By formally requesting validation, you’re not just gathering information; you’re actively protecting your rights and setting the stage for a fair resolution.

What a Validation Letter Must Include

When you request debt validation, the collector can’t just send you a sticky note saying, "You owe us." The law requires them to provide specific details so you can confirm the debt is legitimate. Their response, often called a validation notice, must clearly state the name of the creditor to whom the debt is owed and the total amount you supposedly owe. It should also include a clear statement explaining your right to dispute the debt. This information is the bare minimum they need to provide to prove the debt’s validity. Without these key pieces of information, you have no way of knowing if the debt is real, if the amount is correct, or if they are legally authorized to collect it.

How Long Collectors Have to Respond

Once you send a formal dispute and request for validation, the ball is in the collector’s court. The FDCPA requires them to stop all collection activities—that means no more calls, letters, or negative credit reporting—until they provide you with proof that the debt is valid. This pause is one of the most important protections you have. It gives you time and space to think without constant pressure. While the law doesn't give collectors a specific deadline to respond, they cannot resume collection efforts until they’ve sent you the required validation documents. If they can't produce the proof, they can't legally continue trying to collect from you.

How to Analyze Validation Documents

When you receive the validation documents from the collector, it’s time to put on your detective hat. Don’t just glance at them; review every detail carefully. Start by making sure the information matches your own records. Does the account number look familiar? Is the original creditor someone you’ve done business with? The documents should clearly link you to the debt. A legitimate validation will include things like a copy of a statement from the original creditor or other paperwork showing your name, account number, and the amount owed. If the information is vague or incomplete, it’s a sign that you may need to dispute the debt collector further.

Spot These Common Red Flags

As you review the validation documents, keep an eye out for red flags that could indicate a problem. Be cautious of any major discrepancies. For example, is the amount owed significantly different from what you remember? Is the creditor's name completely unfamiliar? A lack of supporting documentation is another major warning sign. If all they send is a simple letter with a dollar amount but no original statements or account details, it’s not sufficient proof. These kinds of issues are common and could mean the debt is invalid, belongs to someone else, or the collector doesn't have the legal standing to collect it. Identifying these discrepancies in validation documents is key to building a strong dispute.

What if Multiple Collectors Contact You?

It can be incredibly confusing and stressful if more than one collection agency starts contacting you about the same debt. This often happens when a debt is sold and resold between different agencies, and records get messy along the way. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s crucial to treat each collector as a separate entity. You should send a distinct debt validation letter to every single agency that contacts you. Don't assume that because you disputed it with one, the others will know. Keep meticulous records of your communications with each collector, noting who you spoke to and when. This organized approach will help you protect your rights and avoid paying the wrong person or paying the same debt twice.

What to Expect After You File a Dispute

Sending your dispute letter is a huge step, so take a moment to acknowledge that. You’ve officially put the ball in the debt collector’s court. Now, a waiting period begins, but this isn’t the time to sit back and hope for the best. It’s important to understand the process, the potential outcomes, and what you need to do to keep things moving in the right direction. The law sets specific timelines and rules that collectors and credit bureaus must follow, and knowing them will help you stay in control.

The Investigation Timeline

Once the debt collector receives your dispute letter, they are legally required to pause all collection activities on that debt. That means no more calls, letters, or attempts to collect until they’ve investigated your claim. This pause is one of your fundamental rights. At the same time, if you disputed the information with a credit bureau, that bureau generally has 30 days to investigate your claim. They will contact the company that provided the information—in this case, the debt collector—and ask them to check their records. This 30-day window is your key timeframe to watch.

What Are the Possible Outcomes?

After the investigation is complete, one of a few things will happen. First, the collector might provide validation of the debt, sending you documents that prove you owe it. If this happens, collection activities can resume. Second, the collector may be unable to verify the debt. In this case, they must stop all collection efforts and request that the credit bureaus remove the negative mark from your credit report. Finally, the investigation might find that some information was incorrect, like the amount owed. The information will be corrected, and the collection can proceed with the accurate details. If the investigation results in any change to your credit report, the credit bureau must send you the results in writing and provide a free copy of your updated report.

When to Expect Credit Report Updates

If the investigation finds the debt is inaccurate or unverifiable, the credit bureau must correct or delete the item from your report. This usually happens within the 30-day investigation period. However, it’s a good idea to give it a little extra time for the system to update. Plan to pull your credit reports from all three bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—about 45 days after you sent your dispute. Review them carefully to confirm the incorrect information has been removed or corrected as promised. If it’s still there, you’ll need to follow up with the credit bureau again, armed with the results of your investigation.

How to Follow Up on Your Dispute

Staying organized is your best strategy here. You should have a copy of the dispute letter you sent and the certified mail receipt showing when the collector received it. Mark your calendar for 30 days from that date. If you haven’t heard anything by then, it’s time to send a follow-up letter. Your follow-up should reference the date of your original dispute, the certified mail tracking number, and the fact that the legal timeframe for a response has passed. This shows the collector you’re serious and knowledgeable about your rights. Continue to document every interaction and keep copies of all correspondence in one place.

What to Do if Collectors Keep Calling

If a debt collector continues to call or send letters after receiving your written dispute, they are likely breaking the law. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) is very clear: once you’ve requested debt verification in writing, they must stop collection efforts until they provide it. If they keep contacting you, tell them firmly on the phone, “I have sent a written dispute and am awaiting validation. You are legally required to cease collection activities.” Note the date, time, and name of the person you spoke with. Then, send another certified letter stating that their continued contact violates the FDCPA and that you will file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) if it persists. This often gets them to respect the process.

How to Handle Specific Types of Debt

Not all debts are created equal, and the strategy for disputing them can vary. Whether you're dealing with a surprise medical bill or the fallout from identity theft, knowing the right steps for your specific situation is key. Let's walk through how to approach some of the most common and tricky debt types you might encounter.

Disputing Debt from Identity Theft

Discovering a debt that isn't yours because of identity theft is incredibly stressful, and acting quickly is your best defense. The moment you realize what’s happened, you need to dispute the debt with both the original creditor and the credit bureaus. You should also immediately file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to create an official record of the identity theft. To protect yourself from further damage, consider placing a fraud alert on your credit report. This makes it harder for anyone to open new accounts in your name. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau offers clear guidance on what to do when a collector contacts you about a debt you don't owe.

Disputing Medical Bills

Medical billing can be notoriously complex and full of errors. If you receive a bill that seems incorrect, your first move should be to contact the healthcare provider and request a detailed, itemized statement. This document breaks down every single charge, making it much easier to spot discrepancies, duplicate charges, or services you never actually received. If you find a mistake, you have every right to dispute the charges. Don't just pay a bill that doesn't look right. Taking the time to dispute debts with creditors is a fundamental consumer right, and it’s especially important when it comes to confusing medical expenses.

Disputing Student Loans

When it comes to student loans, especially federal ones, the dispute process is a bit more direct. If you believe there's an error with your federal student loan—maybe the balance is wrong or payments you made aren't reflected—you should contact your loan servicer directly. Be prepared to make your case. Gather any documentation you have, like bank statements or confirmation emails, to support your claim. It’s important to formally submit your dispute so there’s a record of it. Following a practical guide can help you structure your dispute effectively and ensure you’ve covered all your bases when communicating with the servicer.

What to Do About Old or Time-Barred Debts

You might get a call about a debt that’s many years old. Before you do anything, you need to understand the statute of limitations for debt in your state. This is a law that sets a time limit on how long a creditor or collector can sue you to collect. If a debt is past this limit, it’s considered "time-barred." While a collector can still contact you to try and get you to pay, they can’t win a lawsuit against you for it. Be very careful—in some states, making a payment or even promising to pay can restart the clock on the statute of limitations.

Juggling Disputes with Multiple Collectors

It’s confusing and frustrating when more than one collector starts contacting you about the same debt. This often happens when a debt is sold and passed between different agencies. The most important thing you can do is stay organized. Keep detailed records of every phone call, letter, and email from each collector. You will need to dispute the debt with each collection agency separately, as they may not be communicating with one another or have accurate information. Sending a debt validation letter to every collector who contacts you forces them to prove they have the legal right to collect from you.

What to Do When Collectors Don't Cooperate

You’ve sent your dispute letter and laid out your case clearly, but the collector is still pressuring you or ignoring your request. It’s a frustrating situation, but it’s not a dead end. When a debt collector refuses to cooperate, you have powerful options to protect yourself. The key is to understand your rights and know which steps to take next. Don’t let their difficult behavior intimidate you. Instead, you can escalate the issue, set firm boundaries, and use the law to your advantage.

File a Complaint with the Right Agency

If you believe a debt collector is breaking the law, you shouldn’t have to tolerate it. You can report their behavior to government agencies that exist to protect consumers. Filing a complaint creates an official record of the misconduct and can trigger an investigation into the collection agency. The main federal agencies to contact are the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The CFPB is a great first stop, as it handles consumer complaints about financial products and services, including debt collection. You can also file a complaint with your state’s Attorney General’s office, which enforces both state and federal consumer protection laws. Document every instance of misconduct to build a stronger case for your complaint.

When to Hire a Consumer Protection Attorney

Sometimes, a dispute becomes too complex to handle on your own, or a collector’s actions are so out of line that you need a professional in your corner. If you feel overwhelmed or believe your rights have been seriously violated, it may be time to hire a consumer protection attorney. These lawyers specialize in debt collection laws like the FDCPA and know exactly how to fight back against illegal tactics. An attorney can communicate with the collector on your behalf, represent you in court if necessary, and even sue the collector for damages. Don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance when you need it; it’s a powerful way to level the playing field.

Stop Aggressive Collection Tactics

Constant, aggressive phone calls can be incredibly stressful. Fortunately, you have the right to stop them. The FDCPA gives you the power to control how and when a debt collector contacts you. To make it official, you must send a letter—often called a cease and desist letter—stating your preferences. You can ask a debt collector in writing to only contact you by mail or through your lawyer. You can even demand that they stop contacting you entirely. Once they receive your letter, they are legally allowed to contact you only to confirm they will stop further contact or to notify you of a specific action, like filing a lawsuit. This simple step can provide immediate relief from harassment.

Know Your Legal Options

The law is on your side. Federal and state laws are designed to stop debt collectors from using abusive, unfair, or deceptive practices to collect debts. Remember that sending a written dispute within 30 days of a collector’s first contact forces them to pause collection efforts until they provide you with verification of the debt. This is a critical right. If a collector ignores your dispute, continues to call after you’ve sent a written request to stop, or misrepresents the amount you owe, they are likely breaking the law. Understanding your rights is the first step, but using them is how you protect yourself during a dispute.

Keys to a Successful Dispute

Successfully disputing a debt comes down to being prepared, methodical, and persistent. It’s not just about saying you don’t owe the money; it’s about building a clear, evidence-based case that proves your position. By following a few key principles, you can present your dispute effectively and stand up for your rights with confidence. Think of it as creating a roadmap for the credit bureaus and collectors to follow—one that leads directly to the correct outcome. This involves careful organization, clear communication, and a solid understanding of the rules that protect you. It also means knowing which common pitfalls to sidestep along the way.

Keep Your Paperwork Organized

When you’re disputing a debt, your documentation is your best friend. Before you do anything else, take the time to gather all the evidence that supports your case. This includes copies of payment receipts, bank statements, the original debt validation letter you sent, and the credit report showing the error. Create a dedicated folder—either physical or digital—to keep everything in one place. Make copies of every document you plan to send; you should never mail your original records. Having everything organized makes it easier to write your dispute letter and provides a clear record of your case if you need to reference it later.

Follow Clear Communication Rules

How you communicate is just as important as what you communicate. Always send your dispute in writing. A written letter creates a paper trail that you can use as proof of your actions. In your letter, clearly explain why you are disputing the debt and what you believe is wrong. Be sure to include copies of any documents that support your claim. Remember, if you dispute a debt in writing within 30 days of the collector's first contact, they are legally required to stop collection efforts until they send you verification of the debt. This simple step puts the ball back in their court.

Protect Your Rights Throughout the Process

You have significant legal protections under federal law, primarily the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). This law requires debt collectors to provide you with specific information, including the amount of the debt, the name of the original creditor, and a clear statement of your right to dispute the debt. Sending a written dispute is one of the most powerful ways to exercise these rights. It legally obligates the collector to pause and verify the debt before they can continue trying to collect from you. Knowing these rules helps you hold collectors accountable and ensures the process is handled fairly.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

It’s easy to make a misstep when you’re feeling stressed, but a few common errors can weaken your dispute. First, don’t ignore a debt collector, even if you’re certain you don’t owe the debt. Ignoring them won’t make them go away and could lead to more serious action. Instead, respond with a formal dispute. Second, if you’re contacted by multiple collectors for the same debt, you must dispute the debt with each one individually. Collectors often work with different information, so sending a separate dispute to every agency that contacts you is essential for clearing up the error across the board.

Take Control of Your Debt Situation

Facing a debt dispute can feel overwhelming, but this is your moment to take charge. The process of disputing a debt is more than just a defensive move; it’s a structured way for you to get clarity and ensure you’re being treated fairly. By approaching this methodically, you can manage the situation with confidence instead of letting it manage you. The key is to be organized, informed, and proactive. Think of it as a project where you are in the driver's seat. You’ll gather your facts, create a clear plan, and follow through on each step.

Your power in this process comes from understanding your rights and using the tools available to you. Federal and state laws provide specific protections for consumers, and it’s crucial to know what they are. This isn't about finding loopholes; it's about making sure the debt collector proves their claim and follows the rules. Keeping detailed records of every letter, email, and phone call will be your best asset. This documentation creates a factual timeline that supports your position and holds collectors accountable. Remember, you don't have to have all the answers right away. The goal is to take it one step at a time, starting with building your case and creating a strategy that puts you in control.

Build Your Strongest Case

The foundation of any successful debt dispute is solid evidence. Your primary tool is the debt validation letter, which forces the collection agency to provide proof that you actually owe the debt and that they have the right to collect it. The burden of proof is on them, not you. Before you even write your letter, gather all the documents you have related to the original debt. This includes account statements, receipts, previous correspondence, or anything else that tells the story of the account. Having your own records allows you to spot any inconsistencies in the information the collector provides. A strong case is built on facts, so the more organized your evidence is, the better prepared you will be.

Create a Clear Response Strategy

Timing and communication are everything. Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), you have 30 days from the first contact to send a written debt validation letter. Sending this letter requires the agency to stop collection activities until they provide you with proof. Always send your letter via certified mail with a return receipt so you have proof of when it was sent and received. If multiple collectors are contacting you about the same debt, you need to dispute the debt with each one. Keep separate, detailed records for every communication to avoid confusion and ensure each collector is held to the same standard of proof.

Know When to Ask for Professional Help

While you can handle many disputes on your own, some situations call for backup. If a dispute becomes complicated, a collector ignores your validation request, or you feel your rights have been violated, it’s time to consider seeking professional assistance. For example, if a collector continues to call you after you’ve sent a written request for them to stop, they may be breaking the law. A consumer protection attorney can offer guidance, represent you in communications, and take legal action if necessary. Many offer free consultations, and organizations like the National Association of Consumer Advocates can help you find a qualified attorney in your area. Reaching out for help is a smart, strategic move.

Move Forward After the Dispute is Resolved

Once the dispute process is complete, there are a few final steps to take. If the investigation finds the debt is invalid or inaccurate, the collector must stop trying to collect from you. Your next step is to check your credit report. The collector is required to notify the credit bureaus to have the incorrect information removed. You can dispute errors on your credit reports directly if you find the negative mark is still there. Regardless of the outcome, keep good records of the entire process. Save copies of all letters and documents from the debt collector, as well as everything you sent to them. This file will be an invaluable resource if any issues come up later.

Related Articles

• How to Dispute a Debt in Collections
• Your Consumer Rights in Debt Collection
• How to Dispute Debt Collection on Your Credit Report
• Reporting FDCPA Violations

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the single most important thing I should do when a debt collector first contacts me? The most critical action you can take is to send a written dispute and debt validation letter within 30 days of their first contact. This isn't just a suggestion; it's a legal right that forces the collector to pause all collection activities until they provide you with proof that the debt is valid. Sending this letter by certified mail ensures you have a paper trail and puts the law firmly on your side from the very beginning.

Will disputing a debt hurt my credit score? No, quite the opposite. Disputing a debt can actually protect and even help your credit. When you formally dispute a debt, the collector is required to report it as "disputed" to the credit bureaus. This alerts potential lenders that you are challenging its validity. If your dispute is successful and the collector can't verify the debt, they must have the negative item removed from your credit report entirely, which can improve your score.

What if I missed the 30-day deadline to send a dispute letter? Missing the 30-day window is not ideal, but it doesn't mean you've lost your right to question the debt. You can still send a dispute letter at any time. The main difference is that the collector is not legally required to stop their collection efforts while they investigate your claim. It is still a worthwhile step to take to get verification and create a formal record of your dispute.

What kind of proof does a collector actually have to send for debt validation? For a debt to be considered validated, the collector must provide you with specific information, not just a simple letter demanding payment. At a minimum, their response should include the amount of the debt and the name of the original creditor. A thorough validation would also include documentation that clearly links you to the original account, such as a copy of a statement. If all they send is a generic letter with a balance, it may not be sufficient proof.

What should I do if a collector keeps calling me after I've sent a written dispute? If a collector continues to contact you after receiving your written request for debt validation, they are likely violating federal law. You should firmly state during the call that you have sent a formal dispute and that they are legally required to stop collection activities. Document the date, time, and name of the person you spoke with, and then immediately send another certified letter reminding them of their legal obligations under the FDCPA and stating that you will file a formal complaint if the contact continues.