When a debt collector calls you, you may be caught off guard.

Being unprepared in such a scenario could make you agree to unfavorable terms offered by the debt collector. You may also lose your temper, which would not play out in your favor.

3 Strategies for Debt Management

What Should You Do When a Debt Collector Calls?

• Ask for documentation. Request that they provide you with a debt validation letter.
• Record conversation details. It would be bet if you had a collections entry, a recorded sheet with the time and date whey your debt collector called, their name, and the highlight of the conversation.
• Negotiate payment terms. If the debt owed is a considerably large amount, creditors might be willing to agree to a single payment of only 40% to 60% of the debt amount.
• Talk to an attorney about your options.

What should you do if a debt collector calls?

What Not to Do

• Disclose personal information such as your bank account number or social security number.
• Make a payment in good faith. This will only increase the statute of limitations.

About Attorney Ryan Peterson

Ryan D. Peterson is a former debt collection attorney turned consumer rights expert and advocate. After graduating from William Mitchell law school in 2008, Ryan opened his own criminal defense firm.