What to say in letter disputing validity of debt

by John
(Illinois)

I live in Illinois and received a letter stating I have 30 days to dispute the validity of a debt or they will consider the debt valid.

I would like to know exactly how to say what needs to be said in the letter to them disputing this debt before I mail it certified mail, with return receipt requested.

Is saying: "I dispute the validity of this debt." enough?

Comments for What to say in letter disputing validity of debt

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Sep 26, 2010
 Disputing validity of debt
by: Mary and Gerri

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

It sounds like you are on the right track with your letter. However, although not legally-required, it's a good idea to include the following additional information in your letter. The information will help make clear to the debt collector exactly what debt you are disputing.

- The amount of the debt
- The account number related to the debt you're disputing
- The date that you were contacted about the debt, assuming you have that date
- What you are disputing about the debt -- the amount of the debt or the fact that you owe the debt

For a sample dispute letter, get our ebook Debt Collection Answers. The appendix in the book includes a number of different sample letters to send to debt collectors.

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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