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Cease and Desist Letters to Debt Collectors

Cease and Desist Letters

Under the FDCPA, you have the right to demand that debt collectors stop contacting you.

When to Use

  • Harassment from repeated calls
  • Collectors contacting you at work
  • You've already validated (or declined to pay) the debt
  • The statute of limitations has expired

    • Template

    [Date]
[Collection Agency]
[Address]
    Re: Account #[Number]
    Dear Sir/Madam,
    Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, 15 U.S.C. § 1692c(c), I am requesting that you cease all communication with me regarding the above-referenced account.
    This letter is not an acknowledgment of the debt. Please direct all future communication in writing to the above address only.
    Sincerely,
[Your Name]

    What Happens After

  • Collector can only contact you to confirm they'll stop or to notify you of legal action
  • Does NOT erase the debt
  • Does NOT remove it from your credit report
  • Best used alongside other dispute strategies