It’s easy to overlook paying a bill. You likely receive your bills via mail and email and the ones automatically withdrawn from your bank account.
So, when you receive notification from a debt collector about a bill you’ve already paid, you start to question yourself. Still, after notifying the collection agency, they won’t stop harassing you.
A common practice
Recent findings disclosed that debt collection agencies have attempted to collect medical debt that has either been paid or is eligible for financial assistance. Many times, this is due to poor communication between the agency and hospital billing. Unfortunately, it’s up to the consumer to prove the bill has been paid.
According to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), you have the right to request written verification of the debt. Collectors must provide you with the amount you owe, the creditor’s name and a detailed breakdown of the debt within five days of their first contact with you.
Once you have that information, your next step is to collect all relevant documentation, including proof of payment, receipts and any correspondence with the original creditor. You can then send a written dispute to the debt collector explaining that the debt has been paid. Be sure to include all supporting documents and send your letter via certified mail to ensure it is received.
Document your interactions with the debt collector, including dates, times and the nature of the communication.
If the debt collector continues to harass you after being provided proof of payment, they are violating your rights under FDCPA. You may want to consider pursuing legal action against the agency. You have the law on your side and could receive compensation for damages.
