Debt collection is not a one-way street as debt collection agencies run roughshod over the unprepared debtor. There is one important rule for anyone receiving collection notices. Do not hide your head in the sand. This may be a David and Goliath contest where you feel overpowered, but don’t buy into that emotion. If you owe money on your credit cards and have received collection letters or calls, study up right away.

The worst thing you can do is ignore letters, calls, and notices. In most cases, you have 30 days after the notice to rebut or question the legitimacy of the claim of the debt collection service. When it becomes obvious that these agencies are not the original creditor and may have a flawed claim, you begin by opening that wound. By fighting back, your account may not be worth pursuing.