Free letter template
Debt validation (dispute) letter to a debt collector
Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, if you dispute a debt in writing within the validation period stated in the collector's notice, the collector must stop collecting until it mails you verification. Sending it certified with a return receipt proves when you disputed.
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Re: Dispute of debt, reference [Their reference / account number]
To [Debt collector name], I am responding to your notice dated [Date of their notice or first contact] regarding reference number [Their reference / account number], in the amount of [Amount they say you owe]. I dispute this debt. Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (15 U.S.C. 1692g), please provide verification of the debt, including: 1. The name and address of the original creditor; 2. An itemization of the amount you claim, including interest and fees; 3. Proof that you own or are authorized to collect this debt. Until you provide verification, please stop collection of this debt. Please do not report it to any credit reporting agency, or if already reported, report it as disputed. Please communicate with me only in writing at the address above. Sincerely, [Your name]
When to use this letter
- A collector contacted you about a debt you don't recognize or think is wrong
- You are within the dispute period stated in the collector's validation notice
- You want the name of the original creditor and proof of the amount
Where to send it
Use the collector's mailing address from its validation notice or letter.
Tips before you mail it
- Send it before the end of the validation period in the collector's notice.
- Don't admit the debt is yours or promise to pay in the letter.
- The CFPB has sample letters and explains your rights at consumerfinance.gov.
The full template text
Re: Dispute of debt, reference {{accountRef}}
To {{collectorName}},
I am responding to your notice dated {{noticeDate}} regarding reference number {{accountRef}}, in the amount of {{amount}}.
I dispute this debt. Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (15 U.S.C. 1692g), please provide verification of the debt, including:
1. The name and address of the original creditor;
2. An itemization of the amount you claim, including interest and fees;
3. Proof that you own or are authorized to collect this debt.
Until you provide verification, please stop collection of this debt. Please do not report it to any credit reporting agency, or if already reported, report it as disputed.
Please communicate with me only in writing at the address above.
Sincerely,
{{signature}}Text in {{double braces}} is filled in from the form above. This is a general template, not legal advice.