What To Do If You Receive a Collection Notice.

Nearly everyone BCA Financial Services collects from intends to keep their payment promises when they purchase an item or service. Photo Courtesy Evermore Gallery of American Art

They sincerely wish to pay their bill, but for a variety of reasons they are unable to do so.

Working with a collection agency need not be an unpleasant experience. Assistance from collection specialists, plus determination and self-control has brought many people out of serious financial situations.

After being contacted by a collection agency, following these three suggestions may help you pay your debt.

Don't Get Angry

Your account came to a collection agency from someone who values your business. However, just as you depend on an income to pay for groceries, rent and other necessities, those who extend credit must have payment for their goods and services in order to pay their bills and remain in business.

Contact the Collection Agency

Now, your account is past due. It is time to find a solution. If you believe you do not owe this bill or have questions about this bill please let us know in writing. This will allow us to provide a response to the issues you raise.

By the bye, if your collection agency is not playing by the book (and from experience the vast majority are OK) and that book is the federal law "Fair Debt Collection Practices Act", they may be in violation of that law. After receiving your first notice from them, you have 30 days to ask them questions, like how did your creditor arrive at the balance. Or, may you have a copy of the bill showing dates, etc. But you should ask them in writing.

If you do owe the bill, let the agency know when payment can be expected, and if you are unable to pay it in full, tell them why. Whatever the reasons were for your past payment problems, to get this matter resolved you should contact them. Please read any notices or letters that they send to you carefully. They contain important information about your rights.

Let Them Help

While collecting past due accounts is their business, helping people solve their financial problems [should be] their commitment. People that staff collection agencies are experienced in credit and collections and are able to assist you if you let them. If your account is listed with a collection service that reports to a credit bureau, this could prevent you from obtaining credit when you need it in the future.

We hope the ideas mentioned here will help you, and that you’ll accept their (or OUR, see below) assistance in resolving a debt.

Remember, you can depend on our cooperation.

NOW, if you have a collection-related question from the debtor side, ask us. We'll keep it confidential but if you're uncomfortable, you do not even have to give your real name. Contact owner John Debold. He'll attempt to give you the most honest and sensible answer.