What is a debt collector’s duty to verify a debt?

In Pennsylvania, debt collectors have a duty to verify a debt before they can attempt to collect. This means that when a debt collector attempts to collect a debt, they must first provide evidence to prove that the debt is valid and actually owed by the consumer. This evidence can include a statement of the amount due, the name of the creditor, and other information about the debt. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act and relevant state law give debt collectors certain guidelines they must follow when trying to collect a debt from consumers. They must first contact the consumer to verify the debt. The debt collector must send a written communication that includes the creditor’s name, the amount of debt, and the reasons why the consumer believes they owe this debt. If the consumer believes they do not owe the debt or has questions about it, they can dispute the debt and request debt verification. The consumer must make this request in writing, and the debt collector must provide a written response within 30 days. This response must include specific information about the debt and evidence that the debt is valid and owed by the consumer. Debt collectors have a duty to verify a debt before they can attempt to collect it from a consumer. They must provide evidence of the debt and respond to any disputes or requests for verification from the consumer. In Pennsylvania, this is required by the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act and related state laws.

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What is a debt collector’s duty to verify a debt?

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