Initial Debt Collection Dispute Letter
Today’s Date
Your Name
Your Address
Collector’s Name
Collector’s Address
Dear {insert name of collector or company},
I am writing in response to your (letter or phone call) dated {insert date}, (copy enclosed)
because I do not believe I owe what you say I owe.
This is the first I’ve heard from you, or any other company on this matter therefore, in
accordance with the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, Section 809(b): Validating Debts:
(b) If the consumer notifies the debt collector in writing within the thirty-day period described in
subsection (a) that the debt, or any portion thereof, is disputed, or that the consumer requests the
name and address of the original creditor, the debt collector shall cease collection of the debt, or
any disputed portion thereof, until the debt collector obtains verification of the debt or any copy
of a judgment, or the name and address of the original creditor, and a copy of such verification or
judgment, or name and address of the original creditor, is mailed to the consumer by the debt
collector.
I respectfully request that you provide me with the following information:
(1) the amount of the debt;
(2) the name of the creditor to whom the debt is owed;
(3) Provide a verification or copy of any judgment (if applicable);
(4) Proof that you are licensed to collect debts in (insert name of your state)
Be advised that I am fully aware of my rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act and
the Fair Credit Reporting Act. For instance, I know that:
because I have disputed this debt in writing within 30 days of receipt of your dunning
notice, you must obtain verification of the debt or a copy of the judgment against me and
mail these items to me at your expense;
you cannot add interest or fees except those allowed by the original contract or state law.
you do not have to respond to this dispute but if you do, any attempt to collect this debt
without validating it, violates the FDCPA;
Also be advised that I am keeping very accurate records of all correspondence from you and your
company including recording all phone calls and I will not hesitate to report violations of the law
to my State Attorney General, the Federal Trade Commission and the Better Business Bureau.