Debt collector cease and desist letter template
To stop debt collection efforts, send a cease and desist letter to the collector. This formal notice tells the collector to halt any further communication or actions regarding the debt. Here’s a template you can use:
Cease and Desist Letter Template
Your Name
Your Address
City, State, ZIP Code
Phone Number
Email Address
Date
Debt Collection Agency Name
Agency’s Address
City, State, ZIP Code
Subject: Cease and Desist Request
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to formally request that you cease and desist from any further communication with me regarding the debt identified below:
- Account Number: [Account Number]
- Creditor’s Name: [Creditor’s Name]
- Amount Owed: [Amount]
Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), I am exercising my right to request that all communication regarding this debt stop immediately. Please understand that I do not wish to receive any more phone calls, letters, or other forms of communication about this matter.
If you continue to contact me after receiving this letter, I will file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), and may consider further legal actions as appropriate.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. I expect you to comply with this request immediately and in full.
Sincerely,
Your Name
Additional Information
Keep a copy of the letter for your records. Sending it by certified mail will provide proof that the debt collector received your request. Be clear and firm in your language, and ensure that all necessary details are included to avoid confusion or delay in processing your request.
Debt Collector Cease and Desist Letter Template
Understanding the Purpose of a Cease and Desist Notice
Key Elements to Include in Your Correspondence
How to Address Your Notice to the Debt Collector
Legal Aspects to Consider Before Sending the Notice
Actions to Take After Sending the Cease and Desist Notice
What to Do if the Debt Collector Keeps Contacting You
Begin by clearly stating your intent to stop any further contact from the debt collector. Mention that the purpose of the letter is to notify them that you do not wish to be contacted anymore regarding the debt. Specify that you are exercising your right under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) to request no further communication.
Include your personal details–name, address, and any reference number associated with the debt. This will help the collector identify the specific account. Clearly reference the account number or the nature of the debt to ensure there is no confusion.
Address the letter to the debt collector’s name or the company’s name. Ensure the correct contact information for the collection agency is used, such as the official address, which can typically be found in the original debt documentation or through online resources. Use the formal language in the salutation and body of the letter to maintain professionalism.
Before sending, review the legal requirements for a cease and desist notice in your jurisdiction. The FDCPA allows you to stop collection efforts, but the notice must be clear and concise. Some jurisdictions may require additional steps or forms for the request to be valid, so it’s important to check local regulations.
After sending the notice, keep a copy for your records along with proof of mailing (e.g., certified mail or return receipt). Monitor your mail and phone for any further communication from the debt collector. If they continue to contact you, this could be a violation of the FDCPA, and you may be entitled to file a complaint or take legal action.
If the debt collector ignores the cease and desist letter, document all contact attempts and consider contacting a consumer protection agency or legal professional. They may guide you on filing a formal complaint or taking further legal action to stop harassment.