Can a debt collector contact me about a debt that I’ve already paid?
In Tennessee, a debt collector cannot contact you about a debt that you have already paid. According to the Tennessee Consumer Protection Act that was passed in 1977, debt collectors are not allowed to engage in any deceptive or misleading behaviors when collecting a debt. This includes attempting to collect a debt that has already been paid. If a debt collector does try to contact you or take any other action related to a debt that has already been paid, they may be in violation of this Act and you may take legal action against them. If a debt collector is attempting to contact you about a debt that you have already paid, you may ask them for written confirmation that the debt has been paid in full. If they cannot provide this, you should reach out to the creditor or original lender to ask for written confirmation that the debt has been paid. You have the right to dispute the debt and request verification from the debt collector in writing. You may also request a copy of any contracts or documents that show that you owe the debt. If the debt collector cannot provide you with verification, then the debt may be invalid and they are prohibited under the law from continuing to attempt to collect it from you. It is important to take action if a debt collector is trying to collect a debt that you have already paid. You can submit a complaint to the Federal Trade Commission or the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance. These agencies may investigate the debt collector’s behavior and take appropriate action if any violations of the law occurred.
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