Do Not Pay a Debt Collector Without Requesting Written Proof of the Debt First

A debt collector calls. They are aggressive, insistent, and they want payment now. Your first instinct is to make the problem go away. But you have the legal right to demand written proof of the debt before paying a single cent — and you should always exercise it. Some debts are past the statute of limitations, some were already paid, some belong to someone else, and some are simply fabricated.

Ask for a written validation of the debt: the original creditor, the amount, and proof that the debt is yours. Do not acknowledge the debt verbally or make any partial payment until you have verified it in writing. A partial payment can restart the statute of limitations on an expired debt. Know your rights — they are counting on you not knowing them.