How to Write a Debt Validation Letter (With Templates)

A debt validation letter is a written request you send to a debt collector demanding they prove that (1) the debt is yours, (2) the amount is correct, and (3) they have the legal authority to collect it. This right is guaranteed by the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), specifically 15 U.S.C. § 1692g.

Debt validation is not the same as debt verification. Validation requires the collector to provide substantial evidence of the debt, while verification is a lower standard. Always request full validation.

You have 30 days from the collector's first contact to send a written dispute and validation request. If you send it within this window, the collector must cease all collection activity until they provide proper validation.

You can still request validation after 30 days, but the collector is not legally required to stop collecting while they respond. That said, many collectors will pause collection activity anyway, and requesting validation is still a good practice regardless of timing.

Send your letter as soon as possible after first contact. Do not wait until day 29.

A strong debt validation letter should include:

1. Your name and address (but not your Social Security number or bank details) 2. The collector's name and address 3. A reference to their initial communication (date and any account numbers they provided) 4. A clear statement that you are disputing the debt 5. A request for specific documentation: the original signed credit agreement, a full accounting of the amount owed (principal, interest, fees), and proof of their authority to collect 6. A statement that they should cease collection activity until validation is provided

Send it via certified mail with return receipt requested so you have proof of delivery.

After receiving your validation letter, the collector must either:

1. Provide proper validation and then resume collection, or 2. Stop all collection activity if they cannot validate the debt

Many debts change hands multiple times. It's common for collectors to lack the original documentation. If they can't validate, the debt effectively becomes uncollectable by that collector (though the creditor could assign it to a different collector).

If the collector continues to contact you without providing validation, they are violating the FDCPA and you may have grounds for a lawsuit.

Use our free Validation Letter Generator to create a customized debt validation letter in minutes. The tool generates three types of letters:

1. Initial Validation Request — for first-time disputes within 30 days 2. Cease & Desist with Validation — demands they stop contacting you and prove the debt 3. Dispute Debt Validity — for when you believe the debt isn't yours or the amount is wrong

All letters include proper FDCPA citations and are formatted for certified mail.