What is a debt validation letter?

A debt validation letter is a document that consumers can use to request that creditors or debt collectors provide proof of the debt they are claiming. The debt validation letter is sent to the creditor or debt collector, and it requests that they provide proof that the debt is valid, including the original contract the consumer signed, as well as any related documentation. This proof is known as a "validation of debt," and it is necessary for creditors and debt collectors in Washington to provide it upon request in order for them to be able to pursue the debt. Washington’s collection defense law provides consumers with certain rights when it comes to debt collection, including the right to send a debt validation letter. The law states that debt collectors must provide a consumer with proof that the debt they are trying to collect is valid, and that if they fail to do so, they can no longer pursue it. This is why sending a debt validation letter is so important. If a consumer sends a debt validation letter and the creditor or debt collector fails to provide the required proof, the consumer may be able to stop the collection process. In Washington, consumers are advised to send a debt validation letter if they are contacted by a creditor or debt collector. It is important to note, however, that this will not erase the debt, only the collection process. It is still up to the consumer to pay any existing debt, either through settlement or payment plans.

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What is a debt validation letter?

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