- A collector contacted you about a debt you do not recognize.
- The amount, creditor, account number, or ownership history does not match your records.
- The validation notice shows an end date that has not passed.
- Match the collector's legal name and correspondence address against an independently found official source before sending; do not rely only on the letter, text, link, or callback number.
- Attach copies of supporting documents only if they help your dispute.
- Send by a trackable method and keep a copy of everything.
- Your name and mailing address
- Collector name and correspondence address
- Notice date
- Collector account or reference number
- Copy of the collector notice
- Copies of records that directly support the dispute, if useful
Build a working draft
Your entries are never submitted or analyzed. Saving on this device is optional and off by default. Use partial account numbers and avoid entering a Social Security number.
1. Fill the placeholders
10 fieldsLeave anything blank to keep its bracketed placeholder in the draft.
2. Review and edit
The draft remains editable. Remove instructions and unused options before sending.
Placeholder fields remain available. Values are applied to placeholders or previous field values when they can be identified safely; otherwise, you will be asked before the full draft is regenerated.
Not saved on this device.
Check only what belongs with this specific letter. Send copies, not originals.
Keep these dates with your own copy. This tracker is not included in the letter.
View the unfilled template text
[Your name] [Your mailing address] [City, state ZIP] [Date] [Debt collector name] [Debt collector mailing address] Re: [Account or reference number] To whom it may concern: I am writing about the debt you contacted me about on [date]. I dispute this debt and request validation or verification of the debt. Please provide the validation information required for this debt, including the name of the creditor, the amount of the debt, and information showing that I am responsible for it. I am sending or submitting this dispute on [date sent or submitted]. The validation notice lists [printed validation-period end date]. Because my submission is on or before that printed end date, when you receive it, please cease collection of the disputed debt until you provide the response required by federal law. If you determine that this dispute is duplicative, please send the required notice explaining your reasons and referring me to your response to the earlier dispute. This letter is a dispute and request for information. It is not a payment agreement. Sincerely, [Your name]
- 1.Match the collector's legal name and correspondence address against an independently found official source before sending; do not rely only on the letter, text, link, or callback number.
- 2.Keep a complete copy and proof of delivery.
- 3.Do not send original records.
- 1.Record the delivery date.
- 2.Save the collector’s written response.
- 3.Compare the response with your credit reports and account records before deciding what to do next.
Check the rules and help where you live
Federal templates are a starting point. State law can add rights, deadlines, licensing rules, or court procedures. This finder routes you to official state consumer resources without trying to summarize those laws.
Choose your location to open its official consumer-protection office.
Directory links reviewed August 13, 2026. Verify addresses and instructions before sending.
