Debt Validation Letter Template (FDCPA)

Under FDCPA §1692g, you have 30 days from the collector's first contact to request validation. Once you send this letter, the collector must stop collection activity until they provide verification. If they can't verify, they must stop permanently.

When to Use This Letter

You received a collection letter or call and don't recognize the debt
You want to verify the amount is correct before paying
You want to confirm the collector has the right to collect
You're within 30 days of first contact (strongest protection)

The Letter

[Date] [Your Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP] [Collection Agency Name] [Address] Via Certified Mail, Return Receipt Requested Re: Demand for Validation of Debt Account Reference Number: [XXXXXXXXX] Dear Collections Department: This letter is your formal notice that I am disputing the alleged debt referenced above and requesting validation pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, 15 U.S.C. § 1692g. I am requesting verification of the following: 1. The amount of the alleged debt and an itemized breakdown of how it was calculated 2. The name and address of the original creditor 3. Documentation proving your authority to collect this debt (assignment or purchase agreement) 4. A copy of the original signed agreement creating the alleged obligation 5. Evidence that the statute of limitations has not expired on this debt Until this debt is properly validated, please cease all collection activity, including any credit reporting updates, pursuant to 15 U.S.C. § 1692g(b). If you cannot provide adequate validation, please cease all collection activity and remove any related entry from my credit reports. This is not a refusal to pay if the debt is validated. It is a demand for verification of a disputed debt as provided by federal law. Sincerely, [Your Signature] [Your Printed Name] [Phone Number]

Instructions

Fill in your name, address, the collector's name and address, account reference number, and date.
Send via certified mail, return receipt requested. Keep the tracking number and the green card when it comes back.
Do NOT pay anything before receiving validation.
Keep a copy of the letter for your records.

What Happens Next

The collector must stop all collection activity (calls, letters, credit reporting) until they provide verification. If they continue collecting after receiving this letter, that's a FDCPA violation. If they cannot validate, they must cease all collection permanently and cannot sue you on this account.

After validation: you know the debt is real. Now you can negotiate. See: How to Negotiate a Settlement.