Use this debt collection guide to build a clear demand letter for Hartford.
Debt Collection Rights in Hartford: A Complete Guide
Navigating debt collection in Hartford, Connecticut requires understanding both federal protections and the strong consumer rights Connecticut law provides. As the state capital and insurance center of America, Hartford residents face debt collection issues across diverse economic circumstances. Whether you're dealing with medical debt from Hartford Hospital, credit card debt, student loans, or any other obligation, Connecticut law provides robust protections to help you understand your rights and respond appropriately to collection efforts.
Connecticut has enacted strong consumer protection statutes that supplement federal law, giving Hartford residents multiple layers of protection against abusive debt collection practices. The Connecticut Unfair Trade Practices Act (CUTPA) provides broad protections that can apply to debt collection conduct, while the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) establishes baseline requirements for third-party debt collectors. Understanding how these laws work together empowers Hartford consumers to assert their rights effectively.
For Hartford residents specifically, understanding debt collection rights is particularly important given the economic diversity of the capital city. From families in the North End facing medical debt to professionals Downtown dealing with student loans, debt issues affect Hartford residents across all demographics. The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection actively enforces consumer protection laws and provides accessible complaint procedures for residents facing abusive collection practices.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through federal and Connecticut debt collection laws, explain your rights when collectors contact you, detail procedures for disputing debts and stopping harassment, and connect you with Hartford-area resources that can assist with debt-related issues. Understanding these rights empowers you to protect yourself from abusive practices and make informed decisions about managing debt.
Connecticut and Federal Debt Collection Laws
Hartford consumers are protected by a comprehensive framework of federal and state laws governing debt collection practices. Understanding these laws is essential for asserting your rights against improper collection activities.
Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA)
The federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, 15 U.S.C. Section 1692 et seq., is the primary federal law regulating debt collectors. The FDCPA applies to third-party debt collectors collecting consumer debts. It prohibits abusive, deceptive, and unfair practices including: harassment or abuse; false or misleading representations; unfair practices; and contacting consumers at inconvenient times or places. The FDCPA requires collectors to provide verification of debts upon request and to cease contact when requested in writing.
Connecticut Unfair Trade Practices Act (CUTPA)
CUTPA, Connecticut General Statutes Section 42-110b, provides broad protection against unfair or deceptive acts in trade or commerce. Unlike the FDCPA, which only applies to third-party collectors, CUTPA can apply to original creditors engaging in unfair collection practices. CUTPA violations may result in actual damages, punitive damages up to double the actual damages, and attorney's fees. This statute gives Hartford consumers powerful remedies against improper collection conduct.
Connecticut Creditors' Collection Practices Act
Connecticut General Statutes Section 36a-645 through 36a-647 regulates collection agency licensing and practices. Collection agencies operating in Connecticut must be licensed by the Department of Banking. The statute prohibits various deceptive and abusive practices and provides enforcement mechanisms through the Banking Commissioner.
Statute of Limitations on Debt
Connecticut General Statutes Section 52-576 establishes a six-year statute of limitations for actions on written contracts, including most consumer debts. Once a debt is time-barred, creditors cannot successfully sue to collect it. However, making a payment or written acknowledgment of the debt can restart the limitations period. Understanding whether a debt is time-barred is crucial for Hartford consumers facing old debts.
Wage Garnishment Protections
Connecticut law provides strong protections against wage garnishment. Under Connecticut General Statutes Section 52-361a, the amount that can be garnished is limited to the lesser of 25% of disposable earnings or the amount by which disposable earnings exceed 40 times the state minimum wage. These protections ensure Hartford workers retain sufficient income for basic needs even when facing garnishment.
Bank Account Garnishment
For bank account garnishment (execution), Connecticut law protects certain funds from seizure. Connecticut General Statutes Section 52-367b provides that amounts reasonably necessary for support of the debtor and dependents may be exempt. Federal benefits like Social Security are also protected under federal law.
Exempt Property
Connecticut General Statutes Section 52-352b lists property exempt from collection, including: homestead exemption of up to $75,000; motor vehicle up to $3,500 in value; necessary wearing apparel, household furniture, and appliances; wedding and engagement rings; health aids; and various other categories. Understanding these exemptions helps Hartford residents protect essential property.
Credit Reporting Requirements
The federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), 15 U.S.C. Section 1681, regulates how debts are reported to credit bureaus. Collectors must report accurate information and investigate disputes. Debts generally fall off credit reports after seven years. Hartford consumers have the right to dispute inaccurate debt reporting.
Communication Restrictions
The FDCPA restricts when and how collectors can contact you. Collectors cannot: call before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m. unless you agree; contact you at work if you tell them your employer disapproves; contact you after you send a written cease communication request; or contact you if they know you have an attorney representing you regarding the debt.
Debt Validation Requirements
Under the FDCPA, collectors must provide a validation notice within five days of first contact. This notice must include: the amount of the debt; the name of the creditor; your right to dispute within 30 days; and your right to request verification. If you dispute in writing within 30 days, the collector must cease collection until they provide verification.
Step-by-Step Guide to Handling Debt Collection in Hartford
Successfully managing debt collection in Hartford requires following proper procedures that protect your rights while addressing legitimate obligations. This step-by-step guide walks you through responding to debt collectors.
When a collector contacts you, obtain their complete information: the collector's name and company name; company address and phone number; the original creditor's name; the amount claimed; and any account numbers. Verify that the collection agency is licensed in Connecticut through the Department of Banking website. Scammers sometimes pose as collectors, so verification is essential.
Within 30 days of the collector's first contact, send a written request for debt verification. Your letter should request: proof that you owe the debt; the original creditor's name and address; the amount owed including breakdown of principal, interest, and fees; and documentation showing the collector's authority to collect. Send via certified mail with return receipt requested.
Familiarize yourself with your rights: collectors cannot harass you or use abusive language; they cannot make false representations; they must respect your request to cease contact; they cannot contact you at inconvenient times; and they must verify debts upon proper request. Understanding these rights helps you identify violations.
Keep detailed records of every collector contact: date, time, and duration of calls; name of person you spoke with; what was said by both parties; any threats or abusive language; and any violations of your rights. Save all letters, voicemails, and electronic communications. This documentation is essential if you need to pursue legal action.
Determine whether the debt is time-barred. In Connecticut, the statute of limitations for most written contracts is six years from the last payment or acknowledgment. If the debt is time-barred, the collector cannot successfully sue you. Be careful not to restart the limitations period by making payments or written acknowledgments on old debts.
If you want collectors to stop contacting you, send a written cease communication request. Under the FDCPA, collectors must stop contact after receiving this letter, except to notify you of specific actions like filing a lawsuit. Keep a copy and the certified mail receipt. Note that this doesn't eliminate the debt; it only stops contact.
If a collector files a lawsuit, you must respond. In Connecticut, you typically have 20 days to file an answer after being served. Never ignore a lawsuit; failure to respond results in default judgment. Potential defenses include: the debt is time-barred; the debt isn't yours; the amount is wrong; or the collector lacks proper documentation.
If collectors violate your rights, file complaints with: the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) at consumerfinance.gov; the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection; the Connecticut Department of Banking (for licensed collectors); and the Federal Trade Commission. Complaints create official records and may prompt enforcement action.
If the debt is valid, consider negotiating settlement. Collectors often accept less than the full amount, especially for older debts. Before paying: get any settlement agreement in writing; ensure the agreement states the payment is in full satisfaction; understand tax implications (forgiven debt over $600 may be taxable income); and pay with methods that create records.
For FDCPA violations, significant debts, lawsuits, or complex situations, consult with a consumer law attorney. Many attorneys handle debt collection cases on contingency because the FDCPA provides for attorney's fees. Free legal aid may also be available for income-eligible Hartford residents.
Regularly check your credit reports for accuracy regarding debts. You're entitled to free annual reports from each bureau. Dispute any inaccurate information directly with the credit bureaus. Connecticut law and the FCRA provide remedies for inaccurate credit reporting.
Essential Evidence for Hartford Debt Collection Claims
Building a strong case against abusive debt collectors requires comprehensive documentation. Connecticut courts and regulatory agencies rely heavily on evidence when evaluating debt collection complaints. Here is a detailed guide to the evidence you should gather.
Communication Records
Document every communication with debt collectors: date, time, and duration of each phone call; name of the person you spoke with; detailed notes of what was said; recordings if legally made (Connecticut requires one-party consent); voicemails (save electronically); all letters and emails; and text messages (screenshot with timestamps). This record establishes patterns of contact and any violations.
Written Correspondence
Preserve all written materials: the initial collection notice; debt validation notices; any letters you sent with certified mail receipts; collection letters with postmarks; settlement offers; and payment receipts if any. Written documents often contain violations that verbal communications don't.
Debt Verification Documentation
If you requested debt verification, document: your verification request letter and certified mail receipt; the collector's response or failure to respond; any documents provided as verification; and analysis of whether verification was adequate. Failure to verify or continuing to collect without verification are FDCPA violations.
Evidence of Violations
Document specific violations of debt collection laws: harassment examples (frequent calls, abusive language); false representations (inflated amounts, false threats); unfair practices (unauthorized charges, improper reporting); and calls at prohibited times or to prohibited places. Match each violation to the specific law violated.
Financial Records
Gather records establishing your financial relationship to the debt: original credit agreements or contracts; account statements from the original creditor; payment history; any documents showing what you actually owe; and evidence of what payments you've made. These records help establish whether the claimed amount is accurate.
Statute of Limitations Evidence
If arguing the debt is time-barred, gather: the date of the original default or last payment; account statements showing payment history; any acknowledgments of the debt; and evidence of when the six-year period expired. This evidence supports the statute of limitations defense.
Credit Report Documentation
Obtain and preserve credit reports: reports from all three bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion); records of any disputes you filed; bureau responses to disputes; and evidence of inaccurate reporting. Credit reporting violations can support additional claims under the FCRA.
Damages Documentation
If seeking damages for collector misconduct, document: emotional distress caused by harassment; time spent dealing with improper collection; any physical health impacts; employment issues caused by workplace contacts; and out-of-pocket expenses. FDCPA allows actual damages plus statutory damages up to $1,000.
Witness Information
Identify anyone who witnessed collector misconduct: family members who heard abusive calls; coworkers who witnessed workplace contacts; and anyone who can corroborate your account. Get written statements when possible.
Pattern Evidence
If possible, gather evidence that the collector's misconduct was systematic: online complaints from other consumers; Better Business Bureau records; public enforcement actions; and news reports about the collector. Pattern evidence supports claims of willful violations.
Critical Deadlines for Hartford Debt Collection Issues
Understanding and adhering to deadlines is crucial for Hartford consumers dealing with debt collection. Missing key deadlines can result in losing rights or facing adverse judgments. Here are the critical timelines to be aware of.
Debt Validation Request Deadline
Under the FDCPA, you have 30 days from the collector's initial communication to request debt validation in writing. If you make this request within 30 days, the collector must cease collection until they provide verification. Requests after 30 days don't trigger this automatic stay. Act quickly when first contacted by a collector.
Statute of Limitations on Debt (Connecticut)
Connecticut General Statutes Section 52-576 establishes a six-year statute of limitations for actions on written contracts. The clock typically starts from the date of last payment or default. After six years, the debt is time-barred and collectors cannot successfully sue. Be aware: making a payment or written acknowledgment can restart this period.
Statute of Limitations for FDCPA Claims
Under the FDCPA, you have one year from the date of the violation to file a lawsuit. 15 U.S.C. Section 1692k(d) strictly limits this period. If collectors violated your rights, act within one year or lose your ability to sue under the FDCPA. CUTPA claims may have longer periods.
Statute of Limitations for CUTPA Claims
Connecticut General Statutes Section 42-110g(f) provides a three-year statute of limitations for CUTPA claims. This longer period may be useful if FDCPA claims are time-barred but the conduct also violated Connecticut's unfair trade practices law.
Response to Lawsuit Deadline
If a collector sues you in Connecticut, you typically have 20 days after being served to file an answer with the court. Failure to respond in time results in default judgment against you. If you're served with lawsuit papers, act immediately; don't ignore them.
Credit Reporting Timelines
Most negative information can remain on credit reports for seven years from the date of first delinquency. The clock doesn't restart based on collection activity. After seven years, items should drop off automatically, but you may need to dispute if they don't.
Garnishment Response Deadlines
If you receive notice of wage or bank garnishment, you typically have limited time to claim exemptions. For wage garnishment, notice requirements and exemption claim deadlines vary. Act immediately upon receiving any garnishment notice to protect exempt property or income.
Bankruptcy Considerations
If considering bankruptcy to address overwhelming debt, be aware of filing requirements and automatic stay provisions. Bankruptcy immediately stops most collection activity. However, bankruptcy has long-term consequences and should be considered carefully with professional advice.
Key Timeline Summary
Debt validation request: 30 days from initial contact (for automatic stay). Statute of limitations on debt: 6 years in Connecticut. FDCPA lawsuit: 1 year from violation. CUTPA lawsuit: 3 years from violation. Answer to lawsuit: Typically 20 days from service. Credit reporting: 7 years from first delinquency.
Protecting Your Rights
Track all relevant deadlines carefully. When contacted by a collector, immediately note the date and start the 30-day clock for validation requests. If you believe violations have occurred, consult an attorney before the one-year FDCPA deadline expires.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Hartford Debt Collection Situations
Hartford consumers dealing with debt collection often make avoidable mistakes that worsen their situations or result in lost rights. Understanding these common pitfalls helps you protect yourself.
Ignoring Collection Contacts
Many consumers ignore collection letters and calls hoping they'll go away. This is usually a mistake. Ignoring collectors doesn't make debts disappear and may lead to lawsuits, judgments, and garnishment. Address collection contacts proactively by requesting validation, understanding your rights, and making informed decisions about how to respond.
Not Requesting Debt Validation
Failing to request written verification of the debt within 30 days is a common mistake. The validation request is a powerful tool that forces collectors to prove you owe the debt and the amount claimed. Many consumers pay debts they don't actually owe or accept inflated amounts because they didn't request validation.
Restarting the Statute of Limitations
Consumers sometimes inadvertently restart the six-year statute of limitations on time-barred debts by making small payments or acknowledging the debt in writing. Before making any payment on old debt, determine whether it's time-barred. Once time-barred, you may not want to restart the clock.
Providing Too Much Information
When collectors call, some consumers provide personal information, financial details, or admissions that strengthen the collector's position. You're not required to provide information beyond confirming your identity. Be cautious about what you say, and consider communicating only in writing.
Not Documenting Violations
Many consumers experience abusive collection practices but fail to document them properly. Without documentation, it's difficult to prove violations occurred. Document every contact, save all communications, and note specific instances of harassment or misrepresentation.
Ignoring Lawsuits
When collectors file lawsuits, some consumers don't respond, resulting in default judgments. Always respond to lawsuit summons within the deadline (usually 20 days in Connecticut). You may have valid defenses including statute of limitations, improper verification, or incorrect amounts.
Not Understanding Exempt Property
Some consumers panic about losing everything to collectors without understanding Connecticut's exemption protections. Significant property is protected from collection, including your primary residence (up to $75,000), necessary household items, and portions of wages. Understanding exemptions reduces unnecessary anxiety.
Making Promises You Can't Keep
Pressured by collectors, some consumers make payment promises they can't fulfill. Broken promises can be used against you and don't resolve the underlying issue. Only commit to payments you can actually make, and get any payment agreements in writing.
Not Checking for Validation Errors
When collectors provide validation documents, many consumers accept them without review. Examine validation carefully for: incorrect amounts; debts you don't recognize; debts already paid; and debts past the statute of limitations. Collectors sometimes have inadequate documentation.
Settling Without Written Agreement
Accepting settlement offers verbally without written confirmation is risky. Always get settlement terms in writing before making any payment, including: the exact amount to settle the debt; that payment is in full satisfaction; and that the collector will report the debt as settled or paid.
Not Seeking Legal Help When Needed
Many consumers try to handle complex situations alone when legal help is available. For FDCPA violations, significant debts, or lawsuits, attorney assistance can be valuable. FDCPA cases allow attorney's fees, and free legal aid may be available for eligible Hartford residents.
Frequently Asked Questions About Debt Collection in Hartford
Under the FDCPA and Connecticut law, you have rights including: the right to request written verification of the debt within 30 days; the right to dispute the debt; the right to request that the collector stop contacting you; protection from harassment, false statements, and unfair practices; restrictions on when collectors can call (not before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m.); and protection from contact at work if your employer disapproves.
Connecticut has a six-year statute of limitations for most debt lawsuits under Connecticut General Statutes Section 52-576. After six years from the last payment or default, collectors cannot successfully sue you. However, they may still attempt to collect; you would need to raise the statute of limitations as a defense. Be careful not to restart the clock by making payments or written acknowledgments on old debts.
Yes, but only after obtaining a court judgment. Connecticut law limits garnishment to the lesser of 25% of disposable earnings or the amount exceeding 40 times the state minimum wage. Federal benefits like Social Security generally cannot be garnished for most consumer debts. You can claim exemptions to protect necessary income.
Send a written cease communication request to the collector via certified mail. Under the FDCPA, collectors must stop contacting you after receiving this letter, except to notify you of specific actions like filing a lawsuit. Keep a copy and the certified mail receipt. Note that this doesn't eliminate the debt; it only stops contact.
You can sue under the FDCPA within one year of the violation, potentially recovering actual damages, statutory damages up to $1,000, and attorney's fees. You can also file complaints with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection, Connecticut Department of Banking, and the FTC. CUTPA may provide additional remedies with a three-year limitation period.
The FDCPA prohibits collectors from discussing your debt with third parties except in limited circumstances. They can contact others only to locate you, and cannot reveal that they are collecting a debt. They cannot contact you at work if you tell them your employer disapproves. If collectors improperly contact third parties, this is a violation you can pursue.
If you don't respond to a lawsuit within the deadline (usually 20 days in Connecticut), the collector will get a default judgment against you. This judgment allows them to garnish wages, seize bank accounts, and place liens on property. Always respond to lawsuits, even if you can't afford an attorney. You may have valid defenses like statute of limitations.
If you decide to pay, first verify who currently owns the debt. Once debt is sold to a collector, you typically must pay them, not the original creditor. Always get written confirmation of any payment arrangement, including that payment settles the debt in full. Pay by methods that create records, and keep all documentation.
What to Expect When Resolving Debt Collection Issues in Hartford
Understanding what to expect when resolving debt collection issues helps Hartford consumers make informed decisions about their options. Whether you're negotiating settlements, pursuing violations claims, or defending lawsuits, knowing typical outcomes helps you evaluate your situation.
Settlement Negotiations
Many debts can be settled for less than the full amount owed. Collectors, especially those who bought debt at a discount, may accept significantly reduced amounts. Typical settlement percentages vary based on: age of the debt (older debts often settle for less); whether the collector can prove the debt; your ability to pay; and the collector's policies. Settlements of 25-50% are not uncommon for older debts.
Getting Settlement Agreements Right
Before paying any settlement: get the agreement in writing; ensure it states the payment is in full satisfaction of the debt; confirm how the debt will be reported to credit bureaus; and understand that forgiven debt over $600 may be taxable income (you'll receive a 1099-C). Never make payment until you have the written agreement.
Defending Collection Lawsuits
If you're sued and raise proper defenses, possible outcomes include: dismissal if the debt is time-barred; dismissal if the collector can't prove the debt; negotiated settlement during litigation; or judgment for either party after trial. Many consumers successfully defend by simply requiring collectors to prove their cases properly.
FDCPA Violation Claims
If collectors violated your rights, pursuing FDCPA claims may result in: statutory damages up to $1,000 per case; actual damages for emotional distress, lost wages, etc.; attorney's fees and costs; and sometimes settlements exceeding statutory limits. Class actions may provide additional recovery where violations affected many consumers.
CUTPA Claims in Connecticut
CUTPA violations may provide: actual damages; punitive damages up to double actual damages for willful violations; and attorney's fees. CUTPA's three-year limitations period may allow claims when FDCPA claims are time-barred. CUTPA can also apply to original creditors, not just third-party collectors.
Credit Report Impacts
Resolving debts affects credit reports. If you pay or settle: the account should show as paid or settled; negative history remains for seven years from original delinquency; paid accounts generally look better than unpaid ones; and "paid in full" looks better than "settled for less." Dispute any inaccurate post-resolution reporting.
Bankruptcy Considerations
For overwhelming debt, bankruptcy may be an option. Chapter 7 eliminates most unsecured debt; Chapter 13 creates a repayment plan. Bankruptcy provides immediate relief through automatic stay and long-term fresh start. However, it remains on credit reports for 7-10 years and has other consequences. Consult a bankruptcy attorney for personalized advice.
Timeframes for Resolution
Debt resolution takes time. Validation disputes may take weeks to months. Settlement negotiations vary but often take weeks to finalize. FDCPA lawsuits typically take months to a year. Bankruptcy cases take months to years depending on chapter. Credit report updates may take 30-60 days after resolution.
Working with Attorneys
For FDCPA claims, many consumer attorneys work on contingency because the statute provides for attorney's fees. For debt defense, some attorneys offer affordable services or payment plans. Free legal aid may be available for income-eligible Hartford residents. Don't assume you can't afford help.
Hartford Debt Collection Resources and Contacts
Hartford consumers dealing with debt collection have access to numerous resources for assistance. The following organizations and agencies can provide guidance, investigation, and legal assistance.
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
The primary federal agency for debt collection complaints. Website: consumerfinance.gov. Phone: (855) 411-2372. File complaints about debt collector conduct. The CFPB investigates complaints and may take enforcement action against violators. Complaints are forwarded to companies for response.
Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection
State agency handling consumer complaints including debt collection issues. Address: 450 Columbus Boulevard, Suite 901, Hartford, CT 06103. Phone: (860) 713-6300. Website: portal.ct.gov/DCP. File complaints about unfair debt collection practices. The DCP can investigate and take enforcement action.
Connecticut Department of Banking
Regulates and licenses collection agencies in Connecticut. Address: 260 Constitution Plaza, Hartford, CT 06103. Phone: (860) 240-8299. Website: portal.ct.gov/DOB. Verify collector licensing and file complaints about licensed debt collectors. Unlicensed collection is itself a violation.
Connecticut Legal Services - Hartford Office
Provides free legal assistance to income-eligible Hartford residents on consumer matters including debt collection. Address: 999 Asylum Avenue, 3rd Floor, Hartford, CT 06105. Phone: (860) 541-5000. Website: ctlegal.org. Call to determine eligibility for free legal representation.
Hartford Superior Court
For lawsuits and legal proceedings related to debt. Address: 95 Washington Street, Hartford, CT 06106. Phone: (860) 548-2700. Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. If you're sued, filings and appearances happen here. Small claims (up to $5,000) are also heard here.
National Foundation for Credit Counseling
Non-profit credit counseling network. Website: nfcc.org. Phone: (800) 388-2227. Provides free or low-cost credit counseling, debt management plans, and financial education. Can help you develop strategies for managing debt.
Connecticut Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service
Provides referrals to attorneys including consumer law specialists. Phone: (860) 525-6052. Website: ctbar.org. Initial consultations through the referral service are typically 30 minutes for a nominal fee.
Federal Trade Commission
Federal agency accepting debt collection complaints. Website: ftc.gov. Phone: (877) 382-4357. Report violations online. While the FTC doesn't resolve individual disputes, complaints inform enforcement priorities.
AnnualCreditReport.com
Official site for free annual credit reports from all three bureaus. Website: annualcreditreport.com. Review your reports for accurate debt information and dispute errors directly with the bureaus.
211 Connecticut
Information and referral service connecting you with various resources. Dial 211 or visit 211ct.org. Available 24/7. Can help identify debt counseling, legal assistance, and financial help resources.
The Debt Collection Playbook
Proof is Power
Contracts, invoices, texts, emails… gather all evidence of the debt.
Time is Your Ally (and Their Enemy)
Interest accrues. Late fees may apply. The longer they wait, the more they may owe.
Track Every Penny
Principal, interest, late fees… don't miss a dollar.
The Debtor's Options
Many states allow you to recover collection costs, including attorney fees in some cases. Know your rights.
Connecticut Debt Collection Laws
Applicable Laws
- FDCPA
- Connecticut FDCPA - CGS § 36a-645
Small Claims Limit
$5,000
Consumer Protection Agency
Connecticut Banking Department / CFPB
Collection Combat FAQ
When should I send a demand letter?
After the second broken payment promise. Don't let them string you along indefinitely.
What if they ignore my demand?
Small claims court is your next step. The filing fee is often recoverable, and you don't need a lawyer.
How do I prove they owe me money?
Contracts, invoices, text messages, emails, bank transfers, promissory notes, or witness statements all help prove the debt.
Can I charge interest?
Yes, if your contract includes interest terms. Even without a contract, many states allow pre-judgment interest on debts.
What about collection costs?
Many contracts allow recovery of collection costs and attorney fees. Check your agreement and state law.
Is there a time limit to collect?
Yes. Statutes of limitation vary by state and debt type, typically 3-6 years. File suit before the deadline expires.
What if they claim they already paid?
Demand proof. Bank records, cancelled checks, or receipts should show payment. If they can't prove it, they still owe you.
About FreeDemandLetter
FreeDemandLetter provides free, AI-powered demand letter generation with location-specific legal citations. Our content is reviewed by subject matter specialists and regularly updated to reflect current laws. We help thousands of people resolve disputes effectively—but we're not lawyers, and this isn't legal advice. For complex situations, consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.