I received a letter

**bjl584** · 10-20-2020, 05:26 AM

There could be a mistake on your credit report, or someone could have stolen your identity at some point.
First step is to pull your credit report and review it for anything that looks fishy

**Petunia 100** · 10-20-2020, 07:37 AM

Originally posted by itsmejerry04 View Post

Hi,

Can a debt collector or company make a mistake in writing to someone? I received a letter about the unpaid loan but I do not owe anyone.

Does anyone else have any similar experience with such letters?

Ask them for written proof that the debt belongs to you. DO NOT provide them with identifying info, such as your SSN. And yes, honest mistakes happen all the time.

**mumof2** · 10-26-2020, 09:44 PM

yes what the others have said....i also know companies (her in aust) that try to take people who pay their bills on time in full etc and charge those that don't pay their bills...they try to do it by adding on things etc...its illegal but its a way they get their money back...but beware it could be scammers as well

**myrdale** · 11-06-2020, 04:48 AM

You are never responsible for fraudulent charges.

Do not give them a dime. If the debt is not yours, they will still be glad to take what you send them.

Do not give them access to your checking account. If the debt is not yours, they will still be glad to empty your account.

As others said, demand they send you some written proof. At the same time, pull your credit reports, all three.

Assuming it isn't some medical bill or credit card from 10 years ago that you just forgot about, the chances are it was identity theft. Your credit reports will shed a lot of light on this.

If you find out it is identity theft, file a police report. There is always a chance it was a family member. I have a friend who's mother spent $5k in his name, it sucks, it happens. If you know who committed the fraud, it's your responsibility to include that on the police report.

If you find out the debt is legitimate, and you do owe it, plan on negotiating. If it is a $1,000 debt, they very well may have bought it for $100 or less. Even though they may tack on another $500 of fees and surcharges, $200 may be enough to make the whole thing go away. BUT only if you have that in writing first. And then after it is settled, keep that letter in a secure location for the rest of your life.

I received a letter