What should I do when a debt collector contacts me?
Use the opportunity to find out about the debt and determine if you really owe it. A debt collector is required to provide the name of the creditor, the amount owed, how to dispute the debt, and more. If they will not or cannot provide this information, it could be a scam. A debt collector can help you understand if the debt is yours and what your options are, even if you cannot pay at the time.
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Basics
Why a debt collector is contacting you
A debt collector may be trying to contact you because a creditor believes you are past due on the payments you owe on a debt. Read more
Learn what could happen if you avoid a debt collector
Ignoring or avoiding a debt collector is unlikely to make the debt collector stop contacting you. If you believe you do not owe the debt, you should tell the debt collector. Read more
Learn about some examples of "unfair" practices by a debt collector
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) says that a debt collector is not allowed to use unfair practices in trying to collect a debt. Read more
Understand your situation
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