How to Dispute a Debt With a Collection Attorney

Under the Federal Trade Commission, consumers have the right to dispute debts, even if the collection is facilitated through an attorney. Disputes must be made in writing within 30 days of the collection attorney's initial notice of an attempt to collect the debt. The National Association of Retail Collection Attorneys advises consumers to respond quickly to collection efforts. Ignoring collection efforts can lead to further legal action. Common reasons for dispute include validity or balance discrepancies.

Instructions

1

Write a letter to the collection attorney disputing the debt. Templates are available on the Federal Trade Commission website.

2

Reference the case number and original creditor information. If correspondence from the collection attorney does not contain this information, contact the office.

3

State the reason for dispute.

4

Request that further contact from the collection agency be made in writing. This eliminates repeated phone calls requesting payment, and provides written communication for your records.

5

Attach additional documents to support your dispute, if applicable.

6

Make a copy of the letter and copies of any additional documents that you are sending.

7

Send the original letter and copies of supporting documents to the attorney certified with return receipt requested. Retain a copy of the letter with any support originals.