Credit Validation under the FDCPA
Whether you call it "debt validation" or "credit validation," the process is the same. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) gives you the right to request proof that a third-party debt collector has the right person, the correct amount, and the legal authority to collect on the account.
What a credit validation letter requests
A proper credit validation letter should demand:
- Verification of the debt and amount
- Name and address of the original creditor
- Proof the collector is authorized to collect
- Itemization if fees or interest are included
Keep your letter factual and brief. Do not admit liability. Ask for written credit validation before any further collection attempts are made.
Timeline and mailing tips
You typically have about 30 days from the first collector contact to request validation. Send your request in writing by certified mail so you can track delivery. Keep copies of everything you send and receive. If they call, you can request communications in writing only.
If they validate vs. do not validate
If the collector validates, review the documents. If you disagree or see errors, you can dispute with bureaus or the furnisher. If they cannot validate, they should cease collection until they do. Keep records for future reference.
Sample lines to consider
“Please provide validation of the alleged debt, including the amount, the name of the original creditor, and documentation showing your authority to collect. Until validated, please cease collection efforts.”
Generate a clean letter in minutes and mail it with tracking—create your validation request, or use our dedicated debt validation letter tool or debt verification letter tool.