When Disputing Debt Keep All Correspondence
Occasionally there may be bills that arrive for purchases that you do not remember making. When this happens, do not hesitate to question the bill as the first step in removing this bill from your credit report is in disputing debt. Even if you know you owe the money, but question the amount that is claimed to be owed, disputing debt quickly can help you prove your point.
You should never just toss a bill in the trash with the thought that you do not owe, they will have to prove it and take you to court to get any money out of you. However, without taking the steps needed when disputing debt, even when you win the suit in court, the uncollected debt will still be on your credit report. It may even list the debt was settled but usually not the fact that it was not owed in the first place.
When a bill arrives that you believe to have an inflated balance, you should immediately contact the company that sent the bill and ask for a copy of the invoice on which the balance sue is based. Make sure to record the date and time of the call as well as the person's name to whom you made the request. You should then follow up the process of disputing debt by sending a written request for the information.
Ignoring It Won't Make It Go Away
Once the company sends you the information on which the amount claimed arrives, look it over carefully. You cannot simply say they got it wrong and forget about it, because they are not going to let it go. If you have receipts for the product or service showing a portion has been paid, when disputing debt send a copy to the company. Never send originals as you may need them later.
Keep accurate records of all phone calls and copies of any written correspondence in your efforts at disputing debt. This will be needed in case the company sells the debt to another collector and you have to show that you have been trying to work things out for a debt you believe you do not owe.
If, while disputing debt you realize you were wrong and are responsible for the money, accept the responsibility and if you cannot afford to pay it off all at once, attempt to make payment arrangement. Sending a partial payment as a show of faith along with a letter explaining you intentions to pay and how will usually be accepted. However, you must then meet the promise you made.
