Things You Shouldn't Say
If you get calls from a collection agency, try to remain calm. And whatever
you do, don’t give out any additional information about yourself. Specifically,
don’t tell a collection agency:
- where you work; or
- the bank or banks where you have accounts.
This information only makes it easier for the collection agency to get a
judgment against you in court.
If the collection agent asks where you work or asks about your bank point-blank,
don’t engage in a legal debate. Simply reply, “No comment.”
You shouldn’t commit to paying a bill that you don’t have the
money on hand to pay. Some collection agencies will try to get you to commit
to a payment plan or make a postdated check payment over the phone. This may
seem attractive, since it buys you time to pay; but, if you have doubts about
the money, don’t agree. Bouncing a check to a collection agency creates
a bigger claim.
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