A debt collector just wrote to you. The next 30 days carry the strongest leverage you’ll ever have on this debt. Under 15 USC § 1692g(a) you can demand validation in writing — and until they prove the debt, collection must stop. Most collectors fail to validate. Many accounts vanish from credit reports as a result.
If they have already filed suit, this is the wrong page. Use the “just got served” action plan — the deadlines are tighter and the consequences are harsher.
Do NOT call them
A phone call leaves no paper trail and is the single most common way debtors waive valuable rights. Everything important must be in writing — the FDCPA only protects what is documented. Hang up if they call. Block the number. Your rights run on the calendar, not their schedule.
Note the date — your 30-day clock just started
Under 15 USC § 1692g(a), every collector's initial written communication triggers a 30-day window during which YOU can demand validation and they MUST stop collection until they provide it. The clock starts the day you received the letter — note it on the envelope.
Send a validation letter
Demand they prove the debt: name of the original creditor, the amount, an itemized accounting, and the chain of title (who sold the debt to whom). Certified mail with return receipt. Until they validate, they cannot legally continue collection.
Optionally: cease-and-desist
If you want all contact to stop, § 1692c(c) lets you demand it in writing. The collector can still sue you, but they can no longer call, write, or email you about the debt. Useful for stopping harassment while you decide your next move.
Pull your credit reports
Free at AnnualCreditReport.com (the only government-mandated free source). Check whether the collector has reported the debt as an account on your credit report. If anything is inaccurate or unverifiable, you have FCRA dispute rights under § 1681i.
Check the statute of limitations
Every state has a SOL on debt collection — typically 3-6 years from the last payment or written acknowledgment. If the SOL has run, the debt is "time-barred" — they cannot legally sue you to collect. NEVER make a payment, even a small one, on a time-barred debt: it can re-start the clock in most states (NY and CA have anti-revival rules; most others permit re-aging).
Document everything for FDCPA leverage
The FDCPA gives consumers $1,000 + actual damages + attorney fees per violation under 15 USC § 1692k. Common violations: continuing collection after validation request, calling at prohibited hours, threatening legal action they cannot or will not take, contacting third parties about your debt. Log everything.