Phone, cable and internet debt collectors

• Ask for the final bill and the provider’s record of equipment returns. Keep your return receipts.
• Make sure the account was really yours. Mix-ups and identity theft are common with utility accounts.
• Early-termination fees should match the contract you agreed to.
• If the amount is wrong, dispute it with the collector in writing and with the credit bureaus.

Time limits: Service contracts are usually covered by the state’s written or oral contract limit. Check your state.

Ask the collector to prove it

1. Collecting a debt the person says they don't owe58%
2. Missing or unclear written notice about the debt20%
3. False or misleading statements8.5%
4. Threatened or took negative or legal action5.3%
5. Problems with texts, emails or social media messages3.9%
6. Calling too often or after being told to stop3.9%
7. Contacting or threatening to contact other people1.0%