2 collection agencies, one debt

Can two collection agencies have my same one debt?

[annjd]

It's not illegal but is odd.

Let them know. It is likely an error as only one can collect. And if and when you pay you should get a written release saying nothing further is due.


Or ask the original creditor which agency was assigned.

Unfortunately, once the original creditor sells a debt, it gets sold and resold to subsequent collection agencies. This should be regulated but it's not.

A collection agency can try to collect, but unless you acknowledge the debt as yours and agree to payment, they will have difficulty in collecting.

Are they both listed on your credit reports? If so, you can have on removed as excessive if you can prove the both originate from the same original creditor. Also, is the original creditor also listing it on your credit report?

Never speak to a collection agency on the phone, and never acknowledge a debt from a collection agency as yours. Send them a letter demanding validation of debt and send it certified, return receipt requested. Do no sign your letter in your handwritten signature. Keep a copy of the letter for your records and write the certified number on the letter you send out.

If you are being harassed by a collection agency, send them a certified letter requesting that they cease and desist oral communication. Only communicate with them in writing and only for the purposes of validating the debt. If they cannot prove you owe the debt, they must remove the item from your credit report.