Definition
Debt validation refers to the legal process through which a debt collector must verify or prove that you owe a debt. Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), when a debt collector contacts you about a debt, you have the right to request validation of that debt within 30 days. Once requested, the debt collector must cease collection activities until they provide verification of the debt, typically including documentation showing you owe the debt, the original creditor, and the amount owed. If the collector cannot validate the debt, they legally cannot continue to pursue collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I request debt validation?
Send a written validation request to the debt collector within 30 days of their first contact. Your letter should include your personal information, the account in question, and a statement requesting validation of the debt. It's advisable to send the letter via certified mail with return receipt.
What should proper debt validation include?
Proper validation typically includes verification of the debt amount, the name of the original creditor, documentation showing you agreed to the debt (like a contract or application), and proof that the collector has the legal right to collect the debt.
What happens if a debt collector cannot validate a debt?
If a debt collector cannot validate the debt, they must stop collection attempts on that debt. However, this doesn't necessarily make the debt go away—the original creditor or another collector could still pursue it with proper validation.
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