Debt Relief - What You Should and Shouldn't Do When the Debt Collector Calls

Having debt collectors calling is no fun. It's stressful and that stress seeps into all other aspects of your life. Unfortunately, avoiding those calls won't make the debt or the problem go away. If you're serious about debt relief you're going to have to talk to the debt collector? So what should and shouldn't you say?

Have you ever watched a detective show on television? Remember how people being questioned need to be careful because what they say can be used against them. This is true with debt collectors as well. Be very careful what you say to a debt collector. It can be used against you in the future.

Following up on number one, never share personal or financial information with a debt collector.

When talking to a debt collector, don't answer any questions you don't want to answer. You're under no obligation to answer his or her questions.

If you don't already have it, ask the debt collector to send everything to you in writing. This includes an itemized account of the original debt, plus all interest, fees and collection costs.

If you think the debt is wrong, dispute it. You won't get anywhere over the phone. Dispute it in writing. This needs to be sent to the debt collector no later than 30 days after they first contact you.

Remember, even though you owe a debt, you still have rights and there are things the debt collector can not do. This includes threatening you, being verbally abusive, or calling you repeatedly during one day or day after day. Take notes on this behavior. You may need it in the future.

Keep all these things in mind the next time you talk to a debt collector.

Learn more about how to use debt management tips with Freddie Johnson's free articles on debt relief, debt consolidation, debt management and credit repair tips at http://www.mydebtconsolidationtips.com