About Melissa Douros Expertise I am able to answer questions relating to dealing with collection agencies, starting collection agencies, starting businesses, and networking for business matters. I cannot answer questions on how will something improve my credit score.
Experience I have eight years in the collections industry including owning my own collection agency. I am also agent represented in two books on the subject matter.
Publications Helium, FastCompany, and Ezine.
Education/Credentials I have a Bachelor's Degree in French and Communication, eight years in the collections industry and currently own a collection agency.
Question Hello Melissa,
Recently I received a letter from a debt collection agency because I served as a co-signer for a relative. I disputed the debt and requested that they send verification. They did send verification, although the charges look really questionable. I'm in a tough situation because the relative didn't do a walkthough, so there's no real evidence to dispute their accusations. I have three questions: 1) do I need to follow up with the debt collection agency if I want to discuss the charges or should I call the property management company? 2)I live in California, so can and will this go on my credit report, do they need a judgement from a court? and 3)How long do I have before it goes on my credit report?
Thanks for your help with this
Regards,
Answer Tamara, it is unfortunate that your relative put you in this position. I would contact the original creditor for a valid bill or statement as to the amount you owe. If it looks questionable, always follow up with the original creditor. There are fake collection agencies attempting to collect fraudulent bills from people.
The collection agency will tell you the date that they will place it on your credit. Make sure they give you an actual date as they will know it. Sometimes they don't report and they will try to give you a roundabout answer to try and scare you. On average this is between 30 and 90 days.
