Template to Dispute and Verify Debt

Here is a template for a letter to send to debt collectors to dispute and verify debt. Copy and paste it into your word processor.

(Hint: In many word processors, choosing “Paste Special” will let you paste the below text into your document in your preferred font instead of this font and color.)

(Use certified mail, return receipt requested.)

Your Name
Current Phone: (###) ###-####
Your Mailing Address
City, CA ZIP Code
Date Mailed

Names of Each Debt Collector Employee Involved
Name of Debt Collection Agency
Address on Agency Letterhead
City, State ZIP Code

RE: File No. ###
Account No. ###
Creditor’s Account No. ###
NOTICE OF DISPUTE AND REQUEST FOR VERIFICATION

To the Management of this Collection Agency and the above-noted employees:

Please show in your records that I dispute this account. Please verify this account by providing me with copies of the following documents: credit applications, contracts, account statements, . . . [read the articles for your particular dispute to get other ideas of documents that might be appropriate].

Your reporting of this account shows a $____ balance has been overdue and is now delinquent since ____ [date]. This is not complete or accurate, because I do not owe this balance, because it is was ____. [Use plain English to describe the true reason, such as paid on _ date, settled in full with _, not my debt, etc.] A copy of _____ [describe] showing this is attached. [Include a copy of both sides of checks, any correspondence, prior bills, etc.]

If you refuse to report this account accurately and completely, then please notify each credit reporting agency that the reported information is disputed by the consumer.

Sincerely,
/sign/
Your Name