How to deal with a debt collector

The doorbell rings and you ask yourself, who will it be? Open and you find yourself face to face with a debt collector at home that is recuperate in charge of the financial company that you have not been able to pay for some time. What can you do or not do? A well-dressed gentleman - debt collector shows up, pulls some papers out of the briefcase (maybe some green envelopes to impress you, like those of the official records) and insists on entering your home and getting your commitment signed installments overdue. Maybe guaranteed by bills.

If a debt collector's Behavior is Unacceptable

Call the authorities quickly if a debt collector threatens you with violence or physical strength. Please ask them to stop it in writing if they are harassing or bullying you. A letter design can be used in the Financial Rights Legal Centre. If the course of action does not stop, contact AFCA to file a complaint and to get an independent resolution to a dispute free of charge.

Be honest and cooperative

When you are approached by a debt collector, you have to:

• Try your level best to be honest, including other debts, about your financial situation.
• You should address calls or letters in due course, when you can afford to commit to a payment plan.
• If your contact details change, tell the debt collector.

Keep good records

Keep track of all your debt collector communication, which may consist:

• All the details regarding communication like date and time
• Debt collector's name and company for which they operate
• How they access you like personnel cell No, phone, letter, e-mail or text, they have reached you
• ]Who asked me what?
• If you're struggling to pay the debt
• If you realize that you owe the debt but have trouble paying it

Search Out How Much You Can Pay Back

Use scottishtrustdeed’s budget designer to determine what can be paid for. To work out how much, if any, is left over, calculate your revenue and expenses.

Suggest a Payment Plan against Debt Collector

Approach the collector of debt, say you are in financial difficulties and you'd like a paid schedule to start out. You must take your request into consideration. You may ask to see how much you can afford to pay in financial detail. Give just a number to which you should stick.

The debtor may consent to:

You can pay smaller amounts for a longer period of time.

If the debt is paid in a lump sum, close the debt.

If you have a low income, exempt the debt from major assets, and you are unlikely to change your situation.

Please ask the debtor to write the agreement, if you disagree, write it down if you deny your submission. You can make a complaint if they still do not agree.

Do Best About the Payment Plan

Consult the debt collector immediately if you have difficulty paying. Explain why you are having problems and think about a new scheme. If you want to dispute the debt

You will challenge unanimously a debt if:

It is not yours debt, all or part of it, you don't owe.

It has been more than six years since your last payment and you have not been judged by the courts.

You have reasons not to pay infringement of your rights.

Tell the debt collector why you are disputing the debt. contact them.

Not Sure About the Debt Amount

If you do not believe that you have a debt, or disagree about the amount due, ask about a copy of the agreement or contract, a declaration which shows:

• The debt number and date
• How the calculations and measurement was made
• Paid and owed sums (e.g., cash, interest, fees and charges)

Threatened with Legal Plan

Ask the debtor to delay the proceedings to provide you with time to receive legal advice.

Already Paid the Debt

When you are approached by a debt collector for a debt you already paid, write this down. Have copies of documentation showing this. Where to get help if you need it

Consult a Financial Advisor

Financial advisors provide people with money problems with free, independent and confidential help. You may also bargain on your behalf with creditors.

Free Legal Aid

A Free legal advice and helping with conflicts and debt recovery by the courts are offered by community legal centers and legal aid agencies.