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Debt collection letters can be intimidating and you may not know what to do when one drops on your doormat. We’ve talked before about what to do when bailiffs come knocking at your door, but what should you do when debt collectors start getting in touch from afar? Can you stop creditor contact?

Can you stop creditors sending you letters?

You cannot stop a debt collection agency from sending you letters if they have a legitimate reason to do so. Some of the letters they send will be a legal requirement on their part to show you what the status of your debt is.

The easiest way to prevent letters is to pay the debt. This is easier said than done and you should not do this if you cannot afford to pay what is being demanded from you. However, if you have sought professional advice and can afford to pay your debts or put a full and final offer forward, you should do.

Should you read debt collection letters?

It may be tempting to ignore these letters but you should read them and take in all the information. Some letters may be threatening and use financial jargon to try and confuse you; remain calm and seek help if you are unsure of what a letter is asking of you. Keep all letters you are sent, so you can reference them later if needed.

What might debt collection letters contain?

You may find that some of the letters use aggressive language and mention things like court, bankruptcy and bailiffs. These are scare tactics that are designed to make you reply instantly and comply with the demands set out.

You should not do what the letter is asking of you if you haven’t sought advice or if you feel you have grounds to appeal. Creditors cannot lie to you or send a letter addressed to ‘the occupier’ as somebody else could read this. They are not allowed to tell other people about your debts and if you find this has happened, you may have grounds to take them to court.

Check the details

Do you owe the debt outlined on the letter? If you don’t, you should prove this to the bailiffs by sending evidence across. Is there any incorrect information on the letter? You can inform the sender that their letter contains incorrect information; this can buy you some time to consider your next move.

Get debt help and advice

Please don’t worry about debt collection letters alone. You can find out more about creditor harassment on the Citizens Advice website or you can receive expert, impartial advice from PayPlan.

Our advisers are here to help and they will be happy to talk to you about your financial situation. Get in touch today by calling 0800 316 1833 .