What happens if I dispute a debt with the debt collector?

If you are in Washington and you dispute a debt with a debt collector, you have the right to send a written dispute letter to the collector. This letter must include your name, address, and the name of the debt collection agency. Within 30 days after you send the letter, the debt collector must provide you with written verification of the debt. If the debt collector does not provide you with written verification, they must cease collection activities and may no longer contact you. If the debt collector does provide written verification, you should receive a response within 30 days that outlines the details of the debt, the amount of the debt, and the name of the creditor who originally charged the debt. If the debt is not yours, you can continue to dispute it in writing. This letter should include why you dispute the debt, any relevant documents or other evidence that supports your claim, and a copy of the original dispute letter that you sent. If the debt collector still insists the debt is yours, they must send you written notice of the name and address of the original creditor and what rights you have under the law. You can then make a complaint with the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions or contact an attorney to discuss your options. Only with a court order can the debt collector continue to collect the disputed debt from you.

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What happens if I dispute a debt with the debt collector?

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