A collector will not stop calling, and you want them to put it in writing that they must stop. Create a debt collection cease and desist letter free to start: identify the debt, demand no further contact under federal law, preview free, then download as PDF or Word.
This page is already set up for debt collection. Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, once you tell a collector in writing to stop, they generally may contact you only to confirm they are ending contact or to tell you about a specific legal action. The FTC's debt collection guidance explains what collectors can and cannot do.
One important limit: stopping the calls does not erase the debt, and it does not stop a lawsuit.
What is a debt collection cease and desist letter?
It is a written notice that you want a debt collector to stop contacting you about an alleged debt. You identify the collector, the claimed amount and creditor, how they have been contacting you, and whether you dispute the debt.
Sending it creates a clear FDCPA stop-contact demand with a dated record.
This letter stops collection contact. It does not cancel what the creditor claims you owe.
When to send one
- A collector keeps calling after you already asked them to stop
- Calls come at work, late at night, or in a way that feels abusive
- You dispute that you owe the debt and want that in writing
- You want a paper trail before you report the collector
This letter is aimed at third-party collectors. Rules for original creditors can differ. If you are unsure who you are dealing with, check the FTC FAQs.
How to write it
Identify the collector and the claimed debt
Name the company, the amount, the original creditor, and the account number if you have it. Note the date of the most recent contact.
Say how they contacted you
List calls, letters, emails, or other methods. If you dispute the debt, say so clearly in the letter.
Demand that contact stop, and send it so it is traceable
Cite the FDCPA stop-contact rule and send by certified mail with return receipt. Keep a copy of everything.
How it works on Doqu
- Answer questions about the collector, the claimed debt, and the contact.
- Preview free before you download.
- Download as PDF or Word, sign, and send by certified mail.
Free to start; download when you are ready.
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Frequently asked questions
Debt Collection Cease and Desist Letter — other states
Browse debt collection cease and desist letter templates for other US states.
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