How to Fight a Collection Agency Without Hurting a Credit Score

Debt collection agencies work with creditors to collect unpaid balances. An agency may call or write and threaten to sue you in court for a debt. Going to court and receiving a guilty verdict can result in a credit judgment on your credit record. However, if you don't owe the collection agency money, you can fight back and avoid possible credit damage from a lawsuit.

Instructions

1

Review bank records to show evidence that you don't owe a debt. Collection agencies may attempt to collect on a balance that you've already paid. Visit your bank branch or review your account online and print copies of canceled checks. Fax or mail this information to the collection agency.

2

Fight a collection agency by disputing unknown debts. Write a debt validation letter, which essentially asks debt collection agencies to provide written proof that you owe the outstanding balance. Forward your debt validation letter by certified mail. Tell the agency to stop contact if they can't provide this evidence. Keep a copy of this letter.

3

Talk to a lawyer about filing a lawsuit. Because debt collection agencies can report collection accounts and receive a judgment against you, consult an attorney if you don't owe the money and the collection agency continues their collection attempts. You can sue for damages if an agency violates the law.