Read This First

A cease contact letter stops calls and letters but does NOT eliminate the debt, prevent a lawsuit, or stop credit reporting. Some collectors respond by filing suit. Read the full guide before sending: Cease and Desist Letter Guide.

The Letter

[Date] [Your Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP] [Collection Agency Name] [Address] Via Certified Mail, Return Receipt Requested Re: Cease Communication Request Account Reference Number: [XXXXXXXXX] Dear Collections Department: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, 15 U.S.C. § 1692c(c), I am formally requesting that you cease all further communication with me regarding the above-referenced debt. This includes all phone calls, letters, emails, and any other form of contact. You are permitted to contact me only to: 1. Confirm that you are ceasing contact as requested, or 2. Notify me of a specific action you intend to take (such as filing a lawsuit) Any contact beyond these exceptions following receipt of this letter will constitute a violation of the FDCPA, and I will pursue all available remedies including filing a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, your state attorney general, and pursuing legal action under 15 U.S.C. § 1692k. Sincerely, [Your Signature] [Your Printed Name] [Date]

Instructions

  1. Send via certified mail, return receipt requested. Keep the tracking number and return card.
  2. Their obligation begins when they receive the letter, not when you send it.
  3. Document any contact after receipt - date, time, what was said.
  4. Any violation after receipt is worth filing a CFPB complaint and consulting an attorney.