Are You Being Harassed By Bill Collectors?
by Barry Noret
CreditMania.com, Inc.
You're up to your ears in bills. The last thing you need
is a collection agency calling you night and day. In fact, it has gotten
so bad that you are avoiding the phone at all costs. The collection agency
is counting on your fears and guilt! They think they know more about
the rules than you do. But alas! We are going to give you a great
education. We will teach you to use the laws afforded us. See, you
have the right to fire any debt collector that is collecting a debt on behalf of
the original debtor. So take a deep breath, exhale, smile, and do not fear
the phone or mail any longer.
While you are busy working your credit rebuilding plan, be
sure and confront these scoundrels. Make sure you are taking notes about
every phone call. When it was placed. Where you received your
call. Take names, addresses and phone numbers of the callers. You
need ammo! For instance, they cannot contact your employer or neighbor in
order to track you down. Or, they cannot call after 9pm your time.
Keep a well documented log!
Once you are ready, FIRE THEM. Tell them on the phone
that you will no longer deal with anyone other than the original creditor.
In fact tell them you are also sending them a letter stating as much. Also
tell them if they are not going to abide your request to cease and desist all
activities pertaining to the account, you will seek all legal remedies afforded
by the Fair Debt Collections Practices Act.
Then send off the letter using return/receipt certified
mail. Keep this for your records. Once this is sent the calls and
letters should dwindle. Then it is up to you to decide what action to take
next. Settle with the original creditor, or ignore the debt and hope it
disappears. There are many things to consider, but ultimately you deserve
some peace and quiet while you plan your financial future. Don't you?
Find the example cease and desist
letter here
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