Stacy Johnson of Money Talks News offers these steps to take to stop those annoying calls for collection agencies. "It pays to know how to deal with collection agencies." he says. 

Sometimes the calls are a case of mistaken identity, but that doesn't prevent them from calling.  You do have rights when it comes to collections, explains Johnson. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act stipulates what third-party debt collectors can and can't do when trying to collect. "

Johnson offers these steps to take when dealing with uncooperative debt collectors:

1.       Get proof:  The first step is to take down the agency name and address and write a letter requesting verification of the debt. "Do this immediately to prevent them from placing negative information on your credit report." he says.

2.       Send a "Cease and Desist" letter:  Tell them not to call again.  If they do, it's a violation of federal law.

3.       Talk to a lawyer.  A Consumer lawyer can help you determine whether there is a violation of the law. Sometimes lawyers are willing to take the case without charge, but at least ask for a free consultation to find out.

"If debt collectors violate the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, they're liable for damages that could include money as well as payment of legal fees."   advises Johnson.

Go to the FTC website to find out exactly how the law reads.

Read the full story at Money Talks News.

photo credit: thomasheylen

Posted in Technology And You

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