Credit card debt collectors

• Ask who owns the debt now. If it was sold, the collector should be able to show the chain of ownership back to the original bank.
• The validation notice must itemize interest, fees, payments and credits since the itemization date, so you can see how the balance grew.
• Debt buyers often have incomplete records. If you are sued, making them prove the debt is one of the most common defenses.
• If the balance is real and large, compare options before you pay: a lump-sum settlement, a payment plan, nonprofit credit counseling, or bankruptcy advice.

Time limits: In many states credit cards fall under the limit for open accounts, which can be shorter than the limit for written contracts. Check your state.

Ask the collector to prove it

1. Collecting a debt the person says they don't owe48%
2. Missing or unclear written notice about the debt20%
3. Threatened or took negative or legal action11%
4. False or misleading statements10%
5. Calling too often or after being told to stop7.0%
6. Problems with texts, emails or social media messages2.9%
7. Contacting or threatening to contact other people1.9%