In this troubling economy, a business or individual will often have to handle difficult phone calls from collectors or vendors. There are certain steps that should be taken in handling such phone calls in order to protect your rights. Failing to handle these calls properly could make this situation worse.

First of all, these calls should not be ignored. Hiding from the problem will not make it go away. Secondly, when handling such a phone call, do not volunteer information. Any information that a caller receives during the phone call will be used in an effort to collect upon the debt. They may be seeking to find out where your assets are, where you conduct your banking, and where you are currently employed. All this information will be helpful should they file a lawsuit.

It is important that you verify that the amount that they are collecting is in fact a legitimate debt. Therefore, you should always ask for written verification of the debt. Once you receive verification, you should then you should ask for validation of such debt. This is documentation demonstrating the balance that they claim to be owed. When you receive this, you should review it, and object in writing to any incorrect balances.

Collection agencies can not call you before 8:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m. without your permission. In addition, they are prohibited from contacting you at work if you make such a request. It is also important to keep records of your creditor contacts. In other words, keep track of who you speak to, the date and time of such call, and any agreements, concessions or payment schedules you receive. You should also not allow yourself to be pressured into meeting a payment schedule that you simply do not have the ability to satisfy.

If you need help with handling these calls please do not hesitate to contact Lavelle Law, Ltd. (847) 705-7555 as we have significant experience with negotiating settlements with creditors and are familiar with the rights under the Fair Debt Collection Act.