Written Communication

When communicating with a debt collector, it is very important to document the contact. Be sure to KEEP ALL PAPERWORK: letters from creditors, letters from collectors, sales receipts, cancelled checks, invoices and all other materials related to the debt. Any letters you send, be sure to keep copies for your files. Letters should be sent via CERTIFIED MAIL, Return Receipt Requested. You will arrange for this at the post office by filling out a green form that is attached to your envelope. Once the postman delivers your mail to the collector, the post card is signed by the recipient, with date and time, then returned to you. Keep the green postcard with the copy of the letter you have sent. It is your proof that the collector received your correspondence. 
 - Sample Letters

Phone Communication

To bring a successful lawsuit against the debt collector, it’s important that you document all contact from the debt collector. Whether the contact is by phone, mail or in person, IMMEDIATELY write down the date, time, debt collector’s name and agency, and content of the conversation. To assist with documentation of collection phone calls, use a Collection Call Log. 
 - Collection Call Log

Third Party Contact

If a debt collector has contacted someone other than yourself about your debt, perhaps a relative, friend, neighbor or co-worker, it is very important to document that contact. Ask the person to write a statement indicating date, time, collector’s name and agency, and the content of the conversation. 
 - Third Party Contact Statement

Sample Letters