What is a debt validation notice?

A debt validation notice is a document that can be sent by a consumer to a debt collection agency when they are receiving collection notices or calls. It is a request for the agency to provide proof that the debt is valid and legitimate. The debt validation notice must detail the amount owed and must provide evidence that the consumer is the legal owner of the debt. In California, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) states that collection agencies must provide a debt validation notice if requested by a consumer. This document must be sent within five (5) days of the first contact and must include the amount of the debt, the name of the original creditor, and the information necessary to verify a consumer’s identity. Once the debt validation notice is sent, the agency is prohibited from taking any action against the consumer until the debt has been validated. If the agency cannot meet the debt validation requirements, the debt is considered void and the consumer does not have to pay it.

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What is a debt validation notice?

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