618-937-1817

What Company Is Calling Me From 618-937-1817? Are They A Scam And Why Are They Calling Me?

The company calling you from 618-937-1817 is Merchants Credit, a debt collection agency based in West Frankfort, Illinois. It has been reported that this number is involved in scamming and telemarketing activities, but it is a legitimate business. It is not certain why this number is linked to scams, and if you receive a call from this number, do not give out personal information. To confirm the caller’s identity, call the number back and ask for information about the debt they are collecting. If you think it’s a scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission or local consumer protection agency.

In conclusion, Merchants Credit is a genuine debt collection agency that may be associated with scamming or telemarketing activities. To safeguard yourself, always verify the caller’s identity, refrain from sharing sensitive information, and report any suspicious calls to the proper authorities.

How Can I Block Or Stop Calls From 618-937-1817?

To block or stop calls from 618-937-1817, first identify if it is a debt collector. Let unknown calls go to voicemail and avoid answering directly. Once identified, contact your phone carrier to block the number permanently or use call blocking apps. You can also set contacts not in your address book to go straight to voicemail.

Next, formally request no further contact from the collector by sending a cease and desist letter via certified mail. Check if your state has additional laws beyond the FDCPA that require written notice for collection calls. Keep detailed records of all calls to show a pattern of harassment if necessary.

Dealing with the underlying debt is crucial. Consult a non-profit credit counselor to help negotiate resolution or speak to a consumer protection attorney about your rights and potential lawsuits if the collector violates regulations. Remember, blocking calls does not eliminate any legitimate debts owed, but taking proactive steps can stop harassment while addressing any outstanding debts.

Is 618-937-1817 Violating Fair Debt Collection Practices Act? What Are My Rights As A Consumer?

Firstly, the number 618-937-1817 is operated by Merchants Credit, a legitimate debt collection agency. If you receive calls from this number, ensure you verify the caller’s identity before disclosing any sensitive information. Additionally, report any suspicious calls to the relevant authorities.

If you suspect that these calls are violating the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), it is crucial to document any potential violations, such as calls outside of allowed hours, excessive calling frequency, or abusive language. You have the right to revoke any prior consent given for calls outside normal hours, request that they cease contact at your workplace if prohibited, and send a cease and desist letter via certified mail. You can also verbally request that they stop calling during any conversation.

If issues persist, consider reporting any violations to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to open an investigation, consult a consumer protection attorney for guidance, contact your state Attorney General’s office, or seek assistance from an experienced credit counselor in addressing the debt without further collection calls. Remember, adhering to the FDCPA is mandatory for any collector contacting you, and asserting your rights can prevent further harassment from debt collectors.

If 618-937-1817 Is A Debt Collector, How Do I Validate This Debt And What Are My Options?

If 618-937-1817 is a debt collector, the first step to validate the debt is to request written validation from them. Send a debt validation letter by mail and they are legally obligated to provide this information under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA).

Once you receive the validation, review it thoroughly for any inaccuracies or unrecognized information. Dispute any incorrect information and request it to be removed from your credit report.

When the debt is validated, consider your options. You can negotiate a reasonable settlement or payment installment plan in writing, offering to pay around 30-50% of the balance if it’s affordable. Request deletion from your credit report in exchange for the payment.

If the debt collector violates any FDCPA regulations, assert your rights and consult a non-profit credit counseling agency for guidance in resolving the debt. If necessary, contact an attorney to explore options like bankruptcy or legal action against the collector.

Maintain detailed records of all correspondence and calls with the collector, and revoke any prior permission given to them if they violate FDCPA guidelines. Always remember, never ignore a potential debt collector, and act promptly to confirm the debt’s validity and exercise your consumer rights under the law. Seek professional help when necessary to ensure a fair outcome.

Can 618-937-1817 Sue Me Or Garnish My Wages If They'Re A Debt Collector? Should I Just Settle?

If 618-937-1817 is a debt collector, they can potentially sue you and garnish your wages if they obtain a court judgment. To avoid legal action, try negotiating affordable payments, asserting your inability to pay, seeking guidance from a credit counselor, or hiring a consumer law attorney. Bankruptcy might be an option if debts are overwhelming.

Before deciding to settle, ensure the payment plan is realistic based on your budget and get any settlement terms in writing. Be cautious, as collectors can still sue if you default on a settlement. Settling might be beneficial to avoid legal action, but don’t agree to payments you can’t maintain. Seek help to understand your options and rights first.

Remember to verify the caller’s identity, block the number, consult professionals, and assert your rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) to protect yourself from potential scams and lawsuits.

If 618-937-1817 Is A Collection Company, How Can I Remove It From My Credit Report?

If 618-937-1817 is a debt collection company, the first step is to validate the debt’s legitimacy. Request written confirmation of the debt and review the validation carefully, ensuring your personal details and debt information are accurate. If any information is incorrect, send a written dispute to the collection agency stating the debt is inaccurate per the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

If the debt is valid, consider negotiating a pay-for-delete agreement in writing to settle the debt in exchange for removal. Offer a good faith partial settlement payment and request deletion as a gesture of goodwill. Hire a credit repair service to dispute the debt on your behalf and provide legal resources to assist in getting it removed.

Another option is to wait for the 7-year credit reporting time limit for the collection to automatically fall off your report. File a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau if the collector violates laws and refuses to remove inaccurate information. Consult a consumer law attorney to review if the collector broke laws enabling you to sue for removal and damages.

Proactively validating debts, negotiating with collectors, and asserting your rights can help remove collections from your credit report through persistence and proper documentation. But focus first on determining if the debt is legitimate before taking action.

What Feedback And Comments Do People Leave About 618-937-1817?

People have left various feedback and comments about the phone number 618-937-1817, reporting it as a source of scamming attempts, debt collection, and telemarketing calls. Users have experienced multiple calls per day from this number, and some have identified it as a legitimate collection agency. To ensure safety, always verify the identity of the caller before disclosing any personal information. If you receive suspicious calls, report them to authorities and consider blocking the number. Consult professionals for help with debt resolution and potential lawsuits, while asserting your rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA).