I Offered Payment They Refused

by Susan
(Norfolk, VA)

i just received a collection call at work - - the collector got upset when I refused to give my social security number and date of birth over the phone. I verified my mailing address and home phone and she became "firm" about my having to give her the other info. finally she asked someone if that was okay - -then she told me the amount I owe ($712.00) was was obnoxious that I couldn't pay that amount. actually insulting.

I offered to pay $5.00 a week and increase it to more when I could. She refused that payment (calling it "ridiculous"). I figured something was better than nothing. I asked to speak to her supervisor who said that amount was unacceptable and pressured me into telling why I am in arrears. which is an extremely personal reason, I told him that and then he continued to harass me.

When, in tears, i told him I was shaking and crying - so, my questions:

1. now that they have refused my payment plan - -what do i do?
2. can i have a copy of the recording - -do they really record?
3. should i report this to the ftc?

Reply from DebtCollectionAnswers.com:

We're sorry you had to to through this at work. Please take the time to at least read the first chapter of Debt Collection Answers online for free to understand your rights.

You have the right to request written verification of the debt.

You have the right to tell the debt collector not to call you at work again, and when you do, the calls MUST stop.

Collectors are not allowed to harass you, and some of the language this collector sounds like it could be a problem. An attorney can tell you for sure.

A collector does not have to accept whatever you offer as payment, but if you can't pay more, then you simply can't.

Please read the chapter then contact a consumer law attorney who has experience in debt collection cases. Find out how to get FREE or low cost legal advice about debt collection from a consumer law attorney here.