HOA fees

by Ethan
(Concord, CA)

We owe 3 months worth of HOA on our home that was foreclosed. Our past due account has been forwarded to collection agency, who is asking for 3 times the amount of what we owe, which includes collection fees. I told them I was willing to pay for the actual amount of what we owe plus late fees, but they won't allow it. Now they are threatening to take my case to court and collect for legal fees, and garnish our wages. What is the best thing to do?

Comments for HOA fees

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Nov 22, 2010
 Collector trying to collect unpaid HOA fees
by: Mary

Thanks for submitting your debt collection question on our Q&A page.

I would do two things immediately. First, I would write the debt collector a letter asking for verification of the debt he is demanding that you pay. The federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act gives you the right to ask for verification and obligates the debt collector to respond to your request. Also, by asking for verification, you buy yourself some time to figure out how to deal with your problem.

Be sure to put your request in writing and send it certified mail, return receipt requested. Make a copy of the letter for your files.

Second, I recommend that you talk with a bankruptcy attorney. The attorney can help you figure out if you are a candidate for bankruptcy, which among other things will stop collection efforts against you, including lawsuits over unpaid debts. Click here for a free consultation with a bankruptcy attorney in your state.

Please share what happens with your situation in the comments section for this question. We are very interested in hearing how this turns out for you, and your experience can help others who are struggling with debt collectors.

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