Would you call debt collectors back?

Question

I just got a phone call and when I answered it was an automated message telling me to call a woman (gave me her name) and that this was an attempt to collect a debt. I think it would be silly to call someone back knowing they are going to harrass me about paying an old debt. I'm sure the debt is old because I don't have any recent unpaid debts. And I think it's stupid on their part to try to contact someone via an automated message. Any feedback?

Answer 1

Speaking from experience here. First, call back, see if they say the company name. If not, just say you received a call, but are wary of who they are. Get the business name, and hang up. Then, go to www.budhibbs.com. Look up their company name under worst offenders. Send them a debt validation letter via certified mail. Just state your name, address, and that you received a call, and wish for them to validate the debt they are calling from.

At this point, you will either receive a letter back in 30 days, or they will ignore it. If you get the letter, it should say who the original creditor was, the debt amount, and the date. Google state statute of credit card limitations, and find your state. If the debt is older than your state's statute, they can't sue. They can still call though. At that point, you can send them a cease and desist letter, asking them not to call. If it's still in statute, they can sue you. You should find out if your state has wage garnishment, etc. You can google this, or contact an attorney. If you have a bank acct, home, etc, they can file a lien, etc. Be careful, don't just sit back, and don't listen to any 'former' debt collectors. Their is a reason they are 'former', instead of current. Good luck.

Answer 2

I am truly annoyed by these "recorded messages". If the message is all that important they would have a LIVE PERSON on the other end of the line. Additionally, if you truly owe a debt they can send their payment demand to you via the United States Postal Service for you to read when it's convenient for you (not being interrupted by a phone call in the middle of dinner!).
I would NOT call them back if they did not give me the courtesy of having a live person to discuss the matter with when they had their "computer" call me.
I once called one of these numbers back and the bill they were calling about wasn't even mine!! They had gotten my number from an internet search and since my last name and first initial were the same as the debtor they ASSUMED that I was their debtor.
Hope this helps.

Answer 3

Do not call back! If they are trying to collect on a verified debt, then they would have written you by now.

If you do call back or they call you, do not make any payment arrangements or pay over the phone with a check. Once a payment is made, then the clock starts all over again. This could be for a time barred debt and once you acknowledge the debt (by making payment) then you will have to deal with it for 7 years (depending upon your states SOL).

I had this experience with Portfolio Recovery regarding a debt they said my wife owed. I told them to mail me the paperwork, 2 months later and no paperwork and no phone calls. I have written them a letter requesting verification of debt and still no answer.

Now it's my turn, I am seeking civil action against them in Federal Court.

I invite you to join the following Yahoo group "DontGetRippedOff" dedicated to helping those in financial trouble, Here you will find information to help you with debt collection agencies.
http://finance.groups.yahoo.com/group/dontgetrippedoff/

Answer 4

If you do not call them back they will keep calling, so yes call them back. Then ask what the debt is and from when. First dispute it, then if it is over 5 years tell them that even if it was yours which it is not do they realize that that is over the statute of limitations on that debt. Then inform them that you want everything in writing which since you disputed they have to provide that, and if you inform them you will only deal with this obviously false noncollectable debt that will stop the phone calls.

Answer 5

this is just the beginning, these folks will just keep calling and calling. this debt is probably outside of your states SOL. This may be a scavenger debt collector. Best thing to do is change you phone #. or send them certified letter demanding they stop contacting you. if they continue you can sue 1k per phone call after that letter has been received by them

Answer 6

It might be a good idea to call them back. For one, they might have the wrong # and you could help them find the right person sooner by telling them. For two, sometimes these people can actually help you get things straightened out if you do owe them $. For example, if you don't contact them they could just start garnishing your wages or do something that will only hurt you in the long run. But if you call them and you do owe them $ that you are not able to pay at this time...they can prolly help you set up payment options or other solutions that can help you avoid horrible credit or other punishments.

Answer 7

They broke Federal Law by leaving a message and saying it was about a debt. You need to call them back, get their fax number and fax them this:

Debt Collector,

I wish to excerise my rights under the FDCPA. I want no contact from you, by anything other than mail. You are not to contact me, my family, my work or any 3rd party involving me.

Regards,

Your Name
Your Social Security #

Answer 8

I disagree fully with the automated system but some places have such large volumes that it does save them a lot of money.

But yes it is often a good idea to let them know what is going on they may offer a solution that you haven't thought of.

Answer 9

If contacted, I would insist that all communication be in writing - absolutely no phone calls.

Answer 10

NO! Do all communication in writing only!!!