How To Stop Portfolio Recovery From Calling

Are you being relentlessly harassed by Portfolio Recovery Associates (PRA)? You're not alone, and you can take action to stop the calls.

This article provides a clear, step-by-step guide on how to halt communication from Portfolio Recovery, understand your rights, and explore debt resolution options, empowering you to regain control.

Understanding Your Rights

First, know your rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). This federal law protects you from abusive and unfair debt collection practices. PRA, like all debt collectors, must adhere to these regulations.

You have the right to request verification of the debt. You also have the right to tell them to stop contacting you.

The Cease and Desist Letter: Your Key Weapon

The most effective way to stop Portfolio Recovery from calling is to send a cease and desist letter. This legally compels them to stop all communication, except to acknowledge receipt of your letter or to notify you of a specific action, like filing a lawsuit.

This right is explicitly granted under the FDCPA. Once they receive the letter, the calls *must* stop.

Crafting and Sending Your Cease and Desist Letter

The letter should be concise and to the point. Include your name, address, account number (if known), and a clear statement that you are demanding they cease all contact with you.

A simple sentence suffices: "I am writing to demand that Portfolio Recovery Associates, LLC immediately cease all communication with me regarding account [account number, if known]." Do not admit to owning the debt.

Send the letter via certified mail with return receipt requested. This provides proof that PRA received your demand.

Template Cease and Desist Letter (Adapt to Your Situation)

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Date]

Portfolio Recovery Associates, LLC
[PRA Address - Find it on their website or previous correspondence]

RE: Account Number (if known)

To Whom It May Concern:

Please be advised that I am formally requesting that Portfolio Recovery Associates, LLC immediately cease all communication with me regarding the above-referenced account (if known) and all other accounts you claim I owe.

I understand that you may only contact me to acknowledge receipt of this letter or to inform me of a specific action you intend to take, such as filing a lawsuit.

Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]

This template is a starting point. Tailor it to accurately reflect your situation.

What Happens After You Send the Letter?

Legally, Portfolio Recovery must stop contacting you, with limited exceptions. They can only contact you to confirm receipt of your letter or to notify you of specific actions, like a lawsuit.

If they continue to call after receiving the letter, they are violating the FDCPA. Keep a record of all calls and communications.

Documenting Violations and Potential Legal Action

Keep detailed records of any calls received after sending the cease and desist letter. Note the date, time, and the caller's name (if provided).

Violations of the FDCPA can result in financial penalties for Portfolio Recovery. You may be able to sue them for damages.

Debt Verification and Resolution Options

Even if you send a cease and desist letter, the debt still exists. Consider requesting debt validation to ensure the debt is legitimate and accurate.

A debt validation letter requires PRA to provide proof that you owe the debt, the original creditor, and the debt amount.

You can explore debt negotiation and settlement options. Offer a lump-sum payment for a percentage of the total debt.

Beware of Scams and Maintaining Vigilance

Be cautious of scam debt collectors. Always verify the legitimacy of the debt collector before providing any personal information or making payments.

Portfolio Recovery Associates is a legitimate company, but scammers may impersonate them. Confirm their identity before engaging in any discussions.

According to the Better Business Bureau, consumers often complain about inaccurate reporting and aggressive collection tactics from PRA. File complaints with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and your state's attorney general if you experience unfair practices.

Next Steps and Ongoing Developments

Send the cease and desist letter immediately to halt the calls. Consult with a consumer law attorney if you experience FDCPA violations or need assistance with debt resolution.

Monitor your credit report regularly for any inaccurate or outdated information reported by Portfolio Recovery Associates. Dispute any errors you find.

Empower yourself with knowledge of your rights and take decisive action to protect yourself from harassment. The FDCPA is your shield.