Sent to collections

by Marianne
(Montclair, Calif. )

Can I be sent to collections without receiving a statement of charges or being notified that if I do not pay my bill I will be sent to collections.

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Mar 07, 2010
 debt sent to collections without notice
by: Gerri and Mary

Marianne -

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

We think it is outrageous that debts can go to collection (and ruin consumer's credit reports for years) without a specific notice that gives consumers the chance to at least dispute or resolve the debt first. But unfortunately, the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act does not require that advance notice. Instead, they only need to notify you of the debt in writing within five days of additionally contacting you.

We've heard of many situations where consumers disputed a debt, or perhaps were never even notified that they owed a debt, until they heard from a collection agency.

We don't know the specifics of your situation, but would suggest you read up on your rights and options for dealing with the debt collector. At a minimum please
read the first chapter of Debt Collection Answers online for free. We hope it helps!

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