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Debt Validation Letter

Request proof that you owe the debt and that the collector has the right to collect it.

When to Use This Letter

  • Within 30 days of a collector's first contact (for strongest protection)
  • When you don't recognize the debt or believe it's incorrect
  • When you want to verify the collector has proper documentation
  • Anytime you want to exercise your rights under the FDCPA

What Happens After You Send This

  • 1Collector must stop all collection activity until they validate the debt
  • 2They have to provide proof of the debt, including the original amount and creditor
  • 3If they can't validate, they should stop collection and remove from your credit report
  • 4Continuing to collect without validation is an FDCPA violation

Letter Template

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
[Date]

[Debt Collector Name]
[Debt Collector Address]
[City, State ZIP]

Re: Account Number [Account Number, if known]
    Debt Validation Request

To Whom It May Concern:

I am writing in response to your [letter dated / phone call on] [date] regarding the above-referenced account. This letter is not an acknowledgment that I owe this debt.

Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), 15 U.S.C. § 1692g, I am requesting validation of this alleged debt. Please provide the following information:

1. The amount of the alleged debt, including an itemization of:
   - The original principal amount
   - Any interest charges
   - Any fees or other charges
   - Any payments or credits applied

2. The name and address of the original creditor

3. A copy of any signed agreement or contract between myself and the original creditor

4. Proof that you are licensed to collect debts in [Your State]

5. Proof that you have the authority to collect this debt, including the complete chain of assignment from the original creditor to your company

6. The date of the last payment made on this account, if any

7. The date the original creditor alleges this debt became delinquent

Please note the following:

• This letter is a formal dispute of this alleged debt per 15 U.S.C. § 1692g(b).

• You must cease all collection activity until you have provided the requested validation as required by 15 U.S.C. § 1692g(b).

• Do not contact me by telephone regarding this matter. All communications must be in writing.

• If you cannot validate this debt, you must cease all collection activities and notify any credit reporting agencies to which you have reported this account to remove it from my credit report.

• Any continued collection activity or negative credit reporting without proper validation is a violation of the FDCPA.

I reserve all rights to pursue legal action for any violations of the FDCPA.

Sincerely,

[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]

Sent via Certified Mail, Return Receipt Requested
Tracking Number: _______________

How to Use This Template

  1. 1Replace all bracketed [text] with your actual information
  2. 2Print the letter on plain white paper
  3. 3Sign your name above your printed name
  4. 4Make a copy for your records before sending
  5. 5Send via USPS Certified Mail with Return Receipt Requested
  6. 6Record the tracking number on your copy and save the receipt