Talking to a debt collector

Have this ready

• Paper and pen
• Any letters you've gotten about the debt

What to say

1. Open

   “Before we talk about payment, I need some information.”

2. Get their details

   “What's your name, your company's name, and a mailing address?”

3. Ask about the debt

   “Who is the original creditor, and what amount do you say I owe?”

4. Ask for it in writing

   “Please send me the validation notice in writing, including how to dispute it.”

5. Set limits

   “Please only call me [time / way]. I'm not agreeing to pay anything on this call.”

Write down the date, the name of the person you spoke with, and what they said.

After the call

• A collector generally has to give you the creditor's name, the amount and how to dispute it, at first contact or within five days. If they can't, it could be a scam (CFPB).
• Don't give bank or card numbers until you've confirmed they're legitimate (CFPB). Dispute in writing, quickly, and keep copies. Some rights only last 30 days after first contact (CFPB).
• Collectors can't harass you, threaten you, or call before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m. (FTC). Report problems to the CFPB.