Who called me? Look up a debt collector number
Search 946 phone numbers used by 249collection agencies. Find out who's calling and what to do next.
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What to do after a collector calls
- Write down the number, the company name, the time and what they said.
- Don't confirm your Social Security number or bank details, and don't agree to pay yet.
- Ask for a validation notice and send a debt validation letter within 30 days.
- Check your credit reports at annualcreditreport.com for the account.
- If it's wrong, dispute it. See how to remove collections.
Want specialists to handle it? Credit Saint challenges inaccurate collections with all 3 bureaus. Call 1-877-637-2673 for a free consultation.
Debt collector call questions
Why is a debt collector calling me?
Usually because a creditor sold or assigned an unpaid account to a collection agency. It can also be a mistake: the wrong person, a debt you already paid, or a debt that's too old. Ask for the agency's name and mailing address, then request validation in writing within 30 days.
Should I answer or call back an unknown collector number?
You can, but don't confirm personal details or agree to pay on the call. Ask who they are, who the original creditor is, and where to send written requests. Scammers often pose as collectors, so verify the company independently before paying anything.
What times can debt collectors call?
Under the FDCPA, collectors can't call before 8am or after 9pm your local time unless you agree to it, and they can't call you at work if they know your employer doesn't allow it.
How do I make debt collectors stop calling?
Send a written request asking them to stop contacting you. They must stop, except to confirm they're ending contact or to tell you about a specific action like a lawsuit. It doesn't erase the debt.
Will a collection show up on my credit report?
Collectors may report accounts to Equifax, Experian and TransUnion, generally after first contacting you. Accurate collections can be reported for up to 7 years from the original delinquency. Paid medical collections and medical collections under $500 aren't reported by the 3 bureaus.