When the debt collection companies come knocking and calling, it can be stressful since it seems like they’ve been calling every minute of the day.  Since it seems like most of these companies will never listen regardless of your situation, it can be tiresome.  This is why I’ve created this short how-to guide.  I want to show you how you can beat the debt collection companies and how you can get back up on your feet with no debt at all.

Know your laws – Did you know that there are laws out there that debt collection companies have to follow?  Refer to your local state laws to see if they are abusing any of these laws.  If so, immediately take action.  Sometimes, it will work to your favor where you may never even hear from the people again.

Ignore the abuse – The people on the other end of the phone are just an employee of a company that’s looking to make money.  They are probably in the same situation as you.  As long as you don’t let it get to you personally, it will take some stress of your life.

Ask for the proof – The next time a debt collector calls you up regarding some debt, ask for it in writing.  By law, they have to give you this information.  When you do get this proof, try and match it up to your credit report to make sure it’s legit.  If it isn’t, you’re going to have to take the necessary steps to get it settled out.

Tell them to simply stop – By law, if you tell them to stop calling your work or home, they will have to.  Instead of calling, tell them that you will like all further communication by writing.  If they don’t take your request lightly, it’s too bad.  Tell them to follow the law and leave you alone!

Report them if all goes bad – If you find that this company is not following the law or listening to your requests and constantly harass you, contact the BBB and report them.  Not only report them to the BBB, contact your Attorney’s General office at all.  Refer to your local Attorney’s website to file an online plan.

Settle for less – One way to get the debt collection companies to leave you alone 100% is by settling for less.  If you tell them you will settle but for less, they will do this 99% of the time.  Sometimes, you’ll be able to get as much as 90% off your total bill.  If you can do this, always  make sure you get it in writing.  If you don’t get it in writing, you may be in trouble down the road if you don’t have evidence that you were allowed to settle for less. 

If you find you can’t settle for less, keep working and pay off that debt.  Remember, these people do need your money to keep their companies running and you do owe them.  So don’t think they are harassing you just for the fun of it.  If you don’t want the calls or letters, don’t have debt, it’s that simple.  Debt collection companies can be brutal but if you play your cards right, you can get them to leave you alone for good.