Debt validation letters

[hopingsoon]

Is a debt validation letter or request a good first line of defense in any debt matter? I get calls from random numbers regarding zombie debts, the callers often don't identify themselves or if they do the company name is some generic word or random group of letters and they reference accounts that are so old I don't even remember the details. I have, in the past, asked the caller to send me a paper statement so that I may remit payment and they refuse. They insist that you must make payment right there over the phone. It makes me hesitate sending anyone any money regarding debt. So my question is, is there any reason why you shoudn't just send a debt validation letter to ANY debt collector that contacts you? I want verification that it is actually my debt, it is actually the correct amount, it is actually a legitimate company collecting this debt (not a scam), and that once paid, no one will ever hassle me again for this particular debt. I have been contacted by 3 or 4 different CAs over the life of a debt. I don't want to pay one of them just to have another still hounding me or worse, dinging my credit.

[Anonymous]

You don't want to send a DV IF it is for a debt that is within the statute of limitations (varies by state) AND you cannot pay it.

Otherwise, I strongly recommend you send one.

I would also include a line instructing them to not contact you by phone and to only contact you by mail.

Send it CMRRR.

[DaBears]

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@hopingsoon wrote:

Is a debt validation letter or request a good first line of defense in any debt matter? I get calls from random numbers regarding zombie debts, the callers often don't identify themselves or if they do the company name is some generic word or random group of letters and they reference accounts that are so old I don't even remember the details. I have, in the past, asked the caller to send me a paper statement so that I may remit payment and they refuse. They insist that you must make payment right there over the phone. It makes me hesitate sending anyone any money regarding debt. So my question is, is there any reason why you shoudn't just send a debt validation letter to ANY debt collector that contacts you? I want verification that it is actually my debt, it is actually the correct amount, it is actually a legitimate company collecting this debt (not a scam), and that once paid, no one will ever hassle me again for this particular debt. I have been contacted by 3 or 4 different CAs over the life of a debt. I don't want to pay one of them just to have another still hounding me or worse, dinging my credit.

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Always start with a DV letter!!!! 

FDCPA Section 809. Validation of debts [15 USC 1692g]

(b) If the consumer notifies the debt collector in writing within the thirty-day period described in subsection (a) that the debt, or any portion thereof, is disputed, or that the consumer requests the name and address of the original creditor, the debt collector shall cease collection of the debt, or any disputed portion thereof, until the debt collector obtains verification of the debt or any copy of a judgment, or the name and address of the original creditor, and a copy of such verification or judgment, or name and address of the original creditor, is mailed to the consumer by the debt collector.