Debt Validation Letter

A debt validation letter is a formal request sent to a debt collector asking them to provide proof that you owe the debt they are attempting to collect. Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) 15 U.S. Code § 1692, you have the right to request this information within 30 days of the collector’s initial contact. Here’s what your debt validation letter should include:

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1. Your Contact Information

• Full name
• Address
• Phone number (optional but helpful for correspondence)

2. Collector’s Information

• Name of the debt collection agency
• Address

3. Date

Include the date the letter is written.

4. Subject Line or Reference

Include a subject line or reference number to identify the debt. For example:
Re: Request for Debt Validation
Account Number: [Insert Account Number, if provided by the collector]

5. Statement of Intent

Politely but firmly state your intent to verify the debt. Example:
“I am requesting validation of the debt you claim I owe, as permitted under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). Please provide the requested information so I can determine if I am responsible for this debt.”

6. Specific Validation Requests

Request detailed information about the debt, such as:

• The name and address of the original creditor.
• The date the debt was incurred.
• The amount of the original debt and a breakdown of any additional charges or interest added.
• Proof that the debt collector is authorized to collect the debt.
• Copies of any contracts, agreements, or documents that demonstrate my obligation to pay.

7. Cease Collection Until Validation

State that collection efforts must cease until the requested information is provided. Example:
“Under the FDCPA, I request that all collection efforts stop until you provide proper validation of the debt as outlined above.”

8. Optional Requests

You can add other requests for protection, such as:

• A request to only communicate with you in writing.
• A statement that you will not acknowledge the debt until validation is received.

9. Closing Statement

Politely conclude your letter. Example:
“Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your timely response.”

10. Signature

Sign the letter with your full name. Avoid including your social security number or other personal financial details unless specifically required.

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Example Debt Validation Letter

[Your Full Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Phone Number (Optional)]
[Date]

[Debt Collection Agency Name]
[Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]

Subject: Request for Debt Validation
Re: Account Number [Insert Account Number]

To Whom It May Concern,

I am writing to request validation of the debt you claim I owe, as provided under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA)15 U.S. Code § 1692. This is not a refusal to pay but a request for clarification and verification of the debt before I take any further action.

Please provide the following information:

1. The name and address of the original creditor.
2. The date the debt was incurred and the amount of the original debt.
3. A detailed breakdown of any interest, fees, or other charges added to the debt.
4. Proof that your agency has the legal right to collect this debt.
5. Copies of any contracts, agreements, or other documentation that establish my obligation to pay this debt.

Additionally, I request that you cease all collection activities, including phone calls, until this debt is validated as required by law.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to receiving the requested information.

Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]

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Final Tips

• Send via Certified Mail: Always send your letter via certified mail with a return receipt to ensure proof of delivery.
• Keep Copies: Retain copies of your letter and all correspondence with the debt collector for your records.
• Do Not Acknowledge the Debt: Avoid admitting the debt is yours in the letter, as this could restart the statute of limitations in some states.

This letter can help you protect your rights and ensure the debt is valid before taking further steps.

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