Debt collectors are required to validate that a debt is legally owed, so what are the repercussions if they refuse?

It can be confusing to get calls about a collection account that's not on your credit. Here's what may be going on.

When a debt collector reaches out, it can be unsettling, even if you knew that you'd defaulted on your obligations and were expecting the call. Between the pressure to pay, the perceived urgency of ...

The debt collection process is a system for creditors to recover overdue amounts from debtors, and it's vital for a functional credit system. However, it can cause stress and confusion for the ...

Could your debt be reduced or forgiven? Take our financial relief quiz. Find my match Could your debt be reduced or forgiven? Take our financial relief quiz. Carrying a certain amount of credit card ...

Americans are carrying more than $1.23 trillion in collective credit card debt as of late 2025, at a time when average credit card APRs also hover above 20%. And, as the interest charges are tacked on ...

Could your debt be reduced or forgiven? Take our financial relief quiz. Find my match Could your debt be reduced or forgiven? Take our financial relief quiz. If you receive a debt collection notice, ...

In March, we reported on New York City’s new Stopping Harassment and Intimidation and Ensuring Lawful Debt Collection Rule (the “SHIELD Rule”), ...

Debt settlement has major risks but can be a last-ditch option for those buried in debt. U.S. News provides advice on which ...

Debt collection is undergoing a fundamental transformation. As customer expectations rise, regulations become more complex and economic conditions remain uncertain, traditional rule-based collection ...