How to Find Out Details About a Collection Agency

Details about a debt collection agency may be needed for a variety of financial matters, like settling a past-due debt, disputing a credit report entry and obtaining current debt information. You need information about a debt collection agency if you are trying to stop illegal collection activities or pursuing the agency in court. Some states have special licensing for debt collection agencies, while other states only require an agency to register to do business in the state.

Instructions

1

Review any communications you receive, like letters and notices, carefully. Debt collection agencies are required to identify their legal business name and disclose contact information. An attorney may be acting as a debt collection agency under an assumed business name; the information about the attorney who owns or runs the agency must be disclosed in letters sent to you.

2

Visit the official website of your state corporation or business department; you may request details about the company found on a license, like the owner and the state where it mainly operates. Use the search tool or contact information found on the state department's website for collection agency license information.

3

Contact a major credit-reporting bureau, such as Experian, Equifax or TransUnion, that has the collection account on your report. Request additional information about the collection agency.

4

Visit the official website of the Better Business Bureau (BBB.) Click on "Check Out a Business or Charity" on the top-left side of the Web page (see Resource). Enter the business name and search. The BBB report may include details like contract information, complaint history, license requirements and business status.