Must a debt collector give me written notice before attempting to collect a debt?

Yes! In California, debt collectors must provide you with written notice before attempting to collect any debt. This is required by law and is meant to protect consumers from being taken advantage of. The debt collector must provide notice that includes certain pieces of information in order for it to be legally valid. This includes the name of the creditor, the amount of the debt, and a statement that you have thirty days to dispute the debt or to request verification of the debt. It must also provide you with the name and address of the debt collection agency attempting to collect the debt. If you receive written notice but the information provided is incorrect, you can file a complaint with the California Department of Business Oversight. You can also contact the debt collector in writing and inform them that they have the incorrect information and that you want it corrected or removed. It is important to remember that a debt collector cannot threaten or intimidate you in order to get you to pay. California laws protect consumers from harassment and abuse during a debt collection attempt. If you believe that a debt collector is not following the law, you can file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission or with the California Department of Business Oversight.

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Must a debt collector give me written notice before attempting to collect a debt?

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