Dealing with debt collectors can be stressful and intimidating. If you believe a collection attempt is invalid or inaccurate, disputing the debt is your right. When you dispute a debt collection, you must be strategic in what you say to protect yourself legally and get the best results.
Verify the Debt First
Before saying anything important, make sure you understand the debt by asking the collector as many questions as you can. Specifically, ask for:
- The collector’s name, address, and phone number
- The name of the original creditor
- The amount owed
- An account number associated with the debt
Do not confirm deny or discuss the debt validity. Simply state you are disputing the debt and request written verification.
Dispute the Debt in Writing
To keep track of your correspondence, it’s best to dispute debts in writing. Send a certified debt dispute letter within 30 days of being contacted.
- Your name, address, and account details
- A statement that you dispute owing the debt or the amount
- A request that they verify the debt and provide documentation
- Instructions to not report the debt until resolved
Retain copies of the letter and confirmation of delivery. Debt collectors must stop collections until verifying the debt.
Follow Up from the Initial Dispute
After disputing the debt, the collector will likely continue efforts to collect. Be cautious about what additional information you provide over the phone. Follow these tips:
- State you previously disputed the debt and are awaiting verification
- Do not offer details, make payments, or promises
- Ask for original creditor information to investigate independently
- Record calls if legal and permitted in your state
Contact the Original Creditor
With the original creditor name from the collector, contact them to investigate the history. Compare their records to the collector’s claims to identify discrepancies. If their records show the debt as paid or incorrect, provide that proof to the collector.
Dispute Errors on Credit Reports
If the invalid debt appears on your credit report, dispute it with the reporting agency. Provide copies of communications with the collector and original creditor. Creditors must remove unverified debts.
Seek Legal Help if Needed
If the debt collector takes legal action before checking the debt, you should talk to a lawyer. A default judgment will likely be made against you if you don’t show up to court. A lawyer can file motions to demand proper debt verification and dismissal if it’s not done.
Avoid Admitting Responsibility
Never admit the debt is valid unless you have verified it fully. Similarly, avoid making statements agreeing to make payments or settlements. This can reset legal time limits on old debts or restart the collections process on ones you already resolved.
The keys are acting strategically, communicating in writing, investigating independently, and sticking to the verification process. With a methodical dispute approach, you can avoid paying invalid debts while protecting your rights.
/images/2022/08/22/sample_dispute_letter.jpg)
Learn More about HighRadius’s Accounts Receivable Software
Lower DSO, boost working capital, and increase productivity with our AI-driven accounts receivable platform, integrated with modern ERPs.
Accelerate payment recovery from delinquent customers and boost cash flow through automated collection workflows.
Achieve same day cash application with automated remittance aggregation
Mitigate credit risk, reduce bad debt, and streamline customer onboarding with AI-powered insights.
Reduce Revenue Leakage with AI Prediction models that identify valid and invalid deductions.z
HighRadius Named an IDC MarketScape Leader for the Second Time in a Row For AR Automation Software for Large and Midsized Businesses
HighRadius stands out as an IDC MarketScape Leader for AR Automation Software, serving both large and midsized businesses. The IDC report highlights HighRadius’ integration of machine learning across its AR products, enhancing payment matching, credit management, and cash forecasting capabilities.
DISPUTE LETTER to debt collector: here’s exactly what you should say in 2025
FAQ
What is the best reason to put when disputing a collection?
Incorrect Balance or Payment Status For example, the debt might show as unpaid even after you’ve settled it, or the amount might be inflated due to fees. If you find errors in the balance or payment status, dispute them right away to have the information corrected or removed.
What to say when disputing a collection letter?
I am disputing this debt because I do not owe it. Because I am disputing this debt, you should not report it to the credit reporting agencies. If you already reported it, please call the credit bureaus and tell them the debt is being disputed. Then ask them to take it off my credit report.
How do I dispute a collection and win?
You can submit your dispute online or by mail, but either way, it should include:Copies of supporting documents proving the error. A clear explanation of why the debt isn’t yours. Your contact information and report details. Copies of any communication with the collector.
What do you say when filing a dispute?
When you file a dispute, be clear about what information is wrong, why you think it’s wrong, and what you want to happen.