A “Sample Letter To Verify Medical Bill Collector” is a written request. It asks a debt collector to prove a medical debt is valid. You might need this letter if you get a surprise medical bill. Maybe you don’t recognize the debt.
This article can help. We know writing letters can be hard. We will share some templates. These samples will make it easier for you.
We have many examples. You can use these samples as a guide. They will help you write your own letter. Let’s get started!
Sample Letter To Verify Medical Bill Collector
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Collection Agency Name]
[Collection Agency Address]
[Collection Agency City, State, Zip Code]
**Subject: Request for Verification of Debt – Account Number [Account Number]**
Dear [Collection Agency Contact Person or To Whom It May Concern],
I am writing to request verification of a debt you claim I owe, account number [Account Number]. I received your notice on [Date of Notice] regarding this debt.
Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, I am entitled to request validation of this debt. Please provide me with the following information:
* The original creditor’s name.
* The original account number.
* A copy of the original contract or agreement that created the debt.
* An itemized statement of the amount you claim I owe, including all charges and fees.
* Proof that you are legally authorized to collect this debt in [Your State].
I am requesting this information to ensure the accuracy and validity of the debt. I will await your response within 30 days.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
How to Write Letter To Verify Medical Bill Collector
Subject Line: Clarity is Key
- Employ a succinct subject line; for instance, “Verification Request – Account [Account Number]” is both informative and direct. It immediately alerts the recipient to the letter’s purpose.
- Alternatively, “Demand for Validation – Medical Debt [Patient Name]” leaves no room for ambiguity.
Salutation: Politeness Prevails
- Begin with a formal salutation. “Dear [Collection Agency Name]” is universally accepted.
- If a specific contact person is known, address them directly: “Dear Mr./Ms. [Contact Person’s Last Name]”.
- Avoid overly familiar greetings like “Hi” or “Hello.”
Paragraph 1: Initial Assertion
- Assert your intent from the outset. State clearly that you are requesting verification of the alleged debt. Example: “I am writing to formally request validation of a purported debt you are claiming I owe.”
- Reference the account number prominently. This aids the collector in locating the relevant details expeditiously.
- Mention the original creditor. This establishes a clear lineage of the debt.
Paragraph 2: Demanding Substantiation
- Emphasize your right to verification under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). Example: “Pursuant to my rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, I demand complete validation of this debt.”
- Request specific documentation. This might include:
- A copy of the original bill.
- Proof that the collector is authorized to collect this debt.
- Dates of service.
- Explanation of charges.
- Clearly enunciate that until verification is received, you dispute the validity of the debt.
Paragraph 3: Setting Boundaries and Time Constraints
- Establish a deadline for response. A reasonable timeframe is typically 30 days. Example: “I expect to receive this validation within 30 days of the date of this letter.”
- State that further collection activity will be viewed as a violation of the FDCPA until verification is supplied.
- Mention that you will consider all options to protect your rights if validation is not provided.
Closing: Formal Regards
- Employ a professional closing. “Sincerely,” or “Respectfully,” are both appropriate.
- Sign your name legibly.
- Print your name beneath your signature for clarity.
Final Touches: Prudence and Documentation
- Retain a copy of the letter for your records. This is crucial for future reference.
- Send the letter via certified mail with return receipt requested. This provides verifiable proof that the collector received your communication.
- Maintain meticulous records of all correspondence related to this debt.
Frequently Asked Questions: Verifying Medical Bill Collectors
Navigating medical bills and debt collectors can be complex. This FAQ section provides answers to common questions about verifying medical bill collectors and ensuring the legitimacy of your debt.
Why is it important to verify a medical bill collector?
Verifying a medical bill collector helps protect you from scams and ensures that you are paying a legitimate debt to the correct entity. It also helps you understand your rights and options.
What information should I request from a medical bill collector for verification?
You should request the name of the original creditor, the account number, the amount of the debt, and documentation that proves they are authorized to collect the debt.
What should I do if the medical bill collector does not provide sufficient verification?
If the medical bill collector fails to provide adequate verification, you should dispute the debt in writing and consider seeking legal advice.
How long do I have to request verification of a medical debt?
Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), you typically have 30 days from the initial contact with the debt collector to request verification.
What if the medical bill collector continues to contact me after I’ve requested verification but before providing it?
Under the FDCPA, a debt collector must cease collection activities until they provide the requested verification of the debt. Continued contact without verification is a violation of your rights.