Debt Validation

A debt validation letter is a written request to a debt collector demanding proof they have the legal right to collect a debt and that the amount is correct. Send one within 30 days of first contact from a collector to preserve your strongest FDCPA protections.

Yes. Once you send a written validation request, the collector must stop all collection activity until they provide adequate verification. This includes phone calls, letters, and reporting to credit bureaus. Send your request via certified mail for proof.

The collector must provide the amount owed, the name of the original creditor, proof they're authorized to collect, and documentation verifying the debt is yours. If they can't provide this, they cannot legally continue collection efforts.

Yes, you can request validation at any time. However, after 30 days the collector is not legally required to stop collection activity while verifying. Sending within 30 days of initial contact gives you the strongest protections under the FDCPA.

If a collector cannot provide adequate validation, they must cease all collection activity and cannot report the debt to credit bureaus. If they already reported it, they must notify the bureaus to remove it. You may also have grounds for an FDCPA lawsuit.