What can I do if a debt collector refuses to provide me with proof that I owe a debt?
If a debt collector refuses to provide you with proof that you owe a debt, you can take a few steps. First, you can contact the debt collector by phone or letter and ask them to provide you with a written statement of the debt, known as a “validation notice.” This notice must include the amount of the debt, the name of the creditor you owe, and your right to dispute the debt. It’s important to make sure the debt collector includes all the required information in the notice. If the debt collector refuses to provide you with a validation notice, you can file a complaint with the California Department of Business Oversight. This department is responsible for regulating and licensing debt collectors in the state. You can file a complaint online or by calling 1-866-275-2677. You can also file a lawsuit against the debt collector. In order to do this, you will need to prove that the debt collector violated the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. This act protects you from unfair and deceptive practices by debt collectors. You may want to consult with an attorney in order to prepare your case. By taking these steps, you can protect yourself and ensure the debt collector provides you with the proof you need to prove you owe the debt.
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