Debt validation?

[dclvrt]

I requested a debt validation to a collection agency that is trying to collect on a debt that was paid in 2001. I am unable to find proof of this because of how long ago it was. The validation was minimal and almost none of the information I requested was in what I received. What are they required by law to provide you with when a validation is requested.This has not been reported on my credit. I did request a validation but I only received minimal information. Almost all the information I requested in the validation was not sent. Here is what I requested... * What the money you say I owe is for; * Explain and show me how you calculated what you say I owe; * Provide me with copies of any papers that show I agreed to pay what you say I owe; * Provide a verification or copy of any judgment if applicable; * Identify the original creditor; * Prove the Statute of Limitations has not expired on this account * Show me that you are licensed to collect in my state * Provide me with your license numbers and Registered Agent

[stickadiddle]

I'm not sure what they have to provide. I will give you one piece of advice. any time you settle a debt that was past due, keep a copy of the Cashier's check and the settlement letter until your heirs die.

[CzaLeo]

They are required by law to provide you with a copy of the contract you signed for services, nothing more.

[Mary M]

the law states that the credit bureaus have 30 days to validate a debt with the collector. If the collector tells them that the debt is open and unpaid that is all they are required to do It will remain on your report. After you have gone this route and you can dispute it until the cows come home if you like, you will have to deal with the agency reporting the debt. There is a really dumb letter you can write and ask them to prove the debt is unpaid by providing you with the cancelled check. I know what I wrote and it is what I meant. Once the dispute is gone through you can again challenge it with the correspondence between you. You do not have to take additional calls on the account as you open the dialog they will begin to call you. There is no law that requires these agencies to exist and you do not have to talk to them, send them a cease and desist letter if you have to. You will have to go back and figure out how you paid the debt and the proof. From now on, make copies of money orders, or bank drafts, never send cash. Good Luck.

[shayne54]

The problem with this situation is "validation" is an open term and a matter of opinion. The FTC has opinion letters on what they think is "validation" but what it truly comes down to would be if you sued the creditor or they sued you and you went in front of a judge, then the judge would ultimately have to make a decision based off of the evidence in front of him/her. I would say at a minimum they would need full accounting to show how they came up with what they say you owe. A signed contract would not always be needed as one might not be available.