Lenny
Houston,#2Consumer Comment
Mon, September 29, 2008
If you paid by check or credit card to finialize your contract go to your bank or credit card company. They can go back many years now that everything is stored electornically and pull out that infomration. And make the colleciton agency send you a detailed bill of what you owe and on what.
Stacey
Dallas,#3Consumer Comment
Sat, September 27, 2008
1. DO NOT talk to them on the phone 2. send a letter certified mail with return receipt with signature asking for validation of the debt 3. If no validation comes within 30 days then send a letter cease communications letter certified mail with a return receipt with signature Make copies of everything and keep them for future reference If they do not comply then that is their problem Bottom feeder collection agencies will stop at nothing so fight back Stacey
Nancy
Steilacoom,#4Consumer Suggestion
Sat, September 27, 2008
Do not agree to anything, or admit ot anything. There are statute of limitations, but if you agree to pay, the clock starts all over again. Tell them that you want them to send you proof of the debit, and you will check with your attorney. Do NOT agree to pay it.
Laurie
Haslet,#5Consumer Suggestion
Fri, September 26, 2008
They count on you not knowing YOUR RIGHTS and the LAWS they are required to follow. Many buy OLD debt that can no longer be collected and they will use underhanded tactics to scare you into paying No Collection Agency can demand you make a payment or threaten legal action without validating the debt. (prove the debt is actually yours) It cannot be a bill from them it has to be official correspondence from the original creditor. THEY CANNOT THREATEN YOU WITH ARREST EITHER! http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/consumer.shtm Was the number for Columbia a number provided by the collection agency? If it was - find the correct number and contact them directly. The number they provided probably was someone they work with to back up the lies. Never rely on any information you have received from a collection agency - they will say anything they can if it means getting you to pay. Check your states statute of Limitations on Debt, there comes a time when legally they cannot sue you for payment any longer. They will keep calling - but do a little research and learn how to fight back. You can get templates for debt validation letters and cease communications letters to send via certified mail return receipt requested. Keep accurate records and even get a recorder for your phone - check your state laws about whether you have to inform them they are being recorded. You can actually sue them for violating the FDCPA laws.