How to stop harassing collection calls for a wrong debt
How to stop harassing collection calls for a wrong debt
Problem: 3 weeks back I got a call from XYZ collection agency for a credit card debt I don't owe. I do have credit cards but the company has been calling for a Smith Jones who is not me. I have told them that they are calling the wrong person and that they should check their data. Despite telling them my full name, they refuse to listen and have been calling regularly since, threatening with dire consequences if I didn't pay up. I have been regular on my credit card payment and don't want this additional burden. I already have my loans to take care of and cannot be harassed for someone else's loan. They have been calling for the last 3 weeks and the last week the calls got out of control. Is there something I can do to stop them? How come I am being held responsible for a debt I don't owe? Is it something I should worry about? Should I send a cease and desist? What do I do after that?
-Smith Andrews
Solution: Getting calls for the wrong debt happens all the time. It is undoubtedly harassing to receive collection calls for a debt you don't owe and 3 weeks is indeed a long time to tolerate this.
The first thing you may do is send them a cease and desist (C&D) letter. By repeatedly calling you for the wrong account, they have violated the FDCPA rules already. Some collection agencies need to learn it the hard way. There are various sites on the internet where you may find sample C&D letters. Draft a letter asking them to stop calling you since they are violating the FDCPA rules. Let them know that if they have to get in touch with you then they should do it in writing. Tell them you would prefer written communication.
Once they receive the cease and desist letter, they must stop calling you. However, if they continue to call, you may seek punitive action against them. Make sure you send them every correspondence in writing through certified mail and ask for a return receipt.
Harassing calls from collection agencies can be quite irritating. You are also suggested to check your credit report to make sure that no misinformation is reflected on it. If there is any wrong information, you may have to take steps to get them removed, else they will adversely affect your score.