What is a cease and desist letter?

A cease and desist letter asks a debt collector to stop contacting you. Under the FDCPA, collectors must comply after receiving this letter.

Can I dispute a debt I don’t recognize?

Yes. You can send a dispute letter to the collector within 30 days of the first notice requesting proof of the debt.

What should a debt validation request include?

Request the name of the original creditor, total balance, and documents showing you owe the debt. Collectors must provide this before pursuing collection.

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Cease and Desist Letter

[Your Name]  
[Your Address]  
[City, State, ZIP Code]  
[Date]  

To: [Debt Collector’s Name]  
[Debt Collector’s Address]  

Subject: Cease and Desist Communication Regarding Alleged Debt  

Dear [Debt Collector’s Name],

This letter is to inform you that under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), I request that you cease all communication with me concerning the debt you claim I owe.

You are hereby notified to stop all further contact via phone, email, text message, or mail. If you continue to contact me after this notification, it will be considered a violation of the FDCPA and I will report it to the appropriate regulatory agencies.

If you believe I owe this debt and intend to take legal action, please provide written validation within 30 days.

Sincerely,  
[Your Name]

🛠️ Helpful Tips

Always request written validation of a debt before making payment.
Track every communication and save all letters and emails.
Report abusive behavior to the CFPB Complaint Portal.

📚 Know Your Rights

Your debt is protected by the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). Learn how and when collectors are allowed to contact you and what to do if they don’t follow the rules.

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