Ask a debt collector to prove a debt (validation request) – free template (US)

A debt collector must send you a validation notice. If you dispute the debt in writing within the validation period (about 30 days, the date is in their notice), the collector must stop collecting until it sends you verification. Disputing does not mean you admit the debt.

Legal basis: Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, 15 U.S.C. § 1692g; Regulation F, 12 C.F.R. §§ 1006.34 and 1006.38 · Legal position: October 2026

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Maria Gonzalez
1820 Oak Street, Apt 4, Austin, TX 78701
[email protected]

October 31, 2026

National Recovery Services LLC
PO Box 1000, Dallas, TX 75201

Re: Reference NRS-55821 dated October 21, 2026

To whom it may concern:

I am responding to your letter dated October 21, 2026 about a debt of $1,240.00. I dispute this debt and request validation under 15 U.S.C. § 1692g(b). Please send me:

  • the name of the original creditor and the account number with that creditor;
  • an itemization of the amount, including interest, fees and payments since the itemization date;
  • a copy of the document that shows I owe this debt;
  • proof that you are licensed to collect debts in my state, if required.

Until you provide this verification, please stop all collection activity, including reporting the debt to credit bureaus. Please communicate with me in writing only. This letter is not an acknowledgment that I owe this debt.

Sincerely,

Maria Gonzalez

Signature

Created with Pflichtblatt (pflichtblatt.com). General guidance under the law of the United States and the state you selected, legal position as of October 2026. Not legal advice. Please check that it is up to date and fits your situation.

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What does “Debt validation (FDCPA)” mean?

A debt collector must send you a validation notice. If you dispute the debt in writing within 30 days, the collector must stop collecting until it sends you proof, such as the name of the original creditor and the amount.

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