QUESTION
What can I do to stop the calls from debt collection?
Asked on Mar 25th, 2013 on Bankruptcy - Arizona
More details to this question:
For the past four or five years various debt collection agencies have contacted my family concerning a debt belonging to a thirty something woman with same first and last name as my grandmother who resided in the same apartment complex but different unit. We have explained that they are contacting the wrong person and have requested that they inform the debtor but every month a different company calls on behalf of the same debtor. The even called the same day as my grandmother's funeral and demanded proof in the form of her social security number that she was the wrong person. When we asked for contact information for the debtor so we could try to resolve this they refused. It has now gone to a process server who has contacted us but informed us that although they will not contact us others still might.
3 ANSWERS
Business Law Attorney serving Bingham Farms, MI
at
James T. Weiner, P.C.
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There is no good way to do this. However, every time a debt collector contacts you ask them to stop calling and send everything in writing to your address. Then IN WRITING ask them to verify the debt is owed by _______ Name with Social security number xxx-xx-____ (give only the last 4 numbers). Tell them in WRITING that you believe they have mistaken the identity. If they do not verify and continue to contact you get an attorney it's a violation of the Fair Debt Collection Act and several other federal statutes. If they do verify make sure that they have verified the social security number and contact the original creditor in writing with the same demand for verification.
Answered on Mar 26th, 2013 at 1:06 PM
Debt Collection Attorney serving Chicago, IL
Partner at
Edelman, Combs, Latturner & Goodwin, LLC
2 Awards
Send a letter (by means such as certified mail, fax, etc., providing proof of receipt) directing the caller not to contact [number]. If they contact after receipt, it is a violation of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Sue. That will get their attention.
Answered on Mar 26th, 2013 at 1:04 PM
Bankruptcy Attorney serving Phoenix, AZ
at
Law Office of D. L. Drain, P.A.
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Check with the Federal Trade Commission: www.FTC.gov. I believe they have some articles about debt collectors. I am so sorry to hear about this terrible situation. My best to you and your family.
Answered on Mar 26th, 2013 at 2:42 AM