How ProofOfDebt Works
A simple process for generating standardized letters and organizing your correspondence records.
Create a Case
Start by creating a case for the account in question. You'll enter basic information about yourself and the collector or creditor, and answer one key question about your situation.
You'll provide:
- Your name and mailing address
- Collector or creditor details
- Account or reference number
Key Question:
"Has another debt collector previously contacted you about this account?"
Your answer helps determine the correct first step and ensures the right documentation is compiled.
Compile the Correct First Letter
ProofOfDebt selects the appropriate standardized letter based on your scenario. You are not asked to guess which letter is "stronger" or more appropriate.
ProofOfDebt starts with neutral, documentation-focused letters designed to create a clear record without making legal claims or escalating prematurely.
Some advisors and attorneys use more aggressive validation demands as part of a legal or regulatory strategy. ProofOfDebt does not default to that approach. Escalation is contextual and optional.
ProofOfDebt references collector claims as allegations for documentation purposes. The tool does not verify accuracy or make legal determinations.
Debt Validation Request (FDCPA §809)
Used when this appears to be the first time the account is being collected. This letter formally requests validation and starts your documentation timeline.
Validation and Authority to Collect Request
Used when the account has been previously collected or transferred. This letter requests validation of the alleged debt and documentation showing the collector is authorized to collect it.
Track Your Timeline
Once a letter is sent, keep an organized record of events. The timeline reflects what has occurred, when it occurred, and what deadlines may be relevant.
Follow Up When Appropriate
If validation is not received, communication continues, or reporting appears inaccurate, ProofOfDebt unlocks additional standardized letters for documentation purposes.
- Follow-Up: No Validation Received
- Request to Cease Communication (FDCPA §805)
- Credit Bureau Dispute (FCRA §1681)
Export Documentation
At any time, you can download clean, professional PDF letters and complete evidence packets containing your correspondence and timeline records.
Your Evidence Packet Includes:
Print-ready PDF letters, chronological timeline of events, and compiled records formatted for easy reference.
Common Collector Responses
After sending a validation request, collectors may respond in different ways. Understanding these responses helps you document your case accurately.
No Response
Documents non-response for your records. This does not eliminate the debt or mean the debt is invalid—it simply means no documentation was provided within the expected window.
Balance + Creditor Only
Collectors often restate the balance and creditor name only. This is a common response that documents their claim but does not constitute substantive validation with detailed documentation.
Statement of Purchase/Assignment
Asserts authority to collect by stating who they purchased the account from or who they collect for. This is a claim by the collector, not proof of the underlying debt.
Documents Provided
The collector provides verification. ProofOfDebt records this but does not evaluate whether the documentation is legally sufficient. Consult an attorney if you have questions.
ProofOfDebt does not decide what is "enough" validation. It documents what was sent and received.
Credit Bureau Disputes
In addition to debt collector correspondence, ProofOfDebt helps you compile dispute letters to credit bureaus under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). This is a separate process from debt validation.
Equifax
P.O. Box 740256
Atlanta, GA 30374
Experian
P.O. Box 4500
Allen, TX 75013
TransUnion
P.O. Box 2000
Chester, PA 19016
Important: How Credit Bureau Disputes Work
- Each bureau is independent. Disputes are typically handled separately with each bureau reporting the item.
- Bureaus investigate, not remove. The bureau contacts the furnisher to verify the information. Results are not guaranteed.
- Separate from debt collection. Disputing with a bureau does not stop collection activity; validating with a collector does not remove credit report entries.
What This Tool Does
Enter info as stated by collector
You enter the creditor name, balance, and account details exactly as represented by the collector. This information is treated as alleged, not admitted fact.
Letters reference alleged creditor and balance
All letters include the alleged creditor name and balance for clarity and record-keeping. This does not acknowledge accuracy or validity of the amounts claimed.
First letter is chosen automatically
Based on whether you have been contacted by prior collectors about the same account, the system selects the appropriate first letter. You do not need to guess which letter is "stronger."
Timeline is organizational, not legal
The timeline feature helps you organize dates and events. It does not provide legal deadlines or advice about what actions are required or when.
Documentation-only tool
ProofOfDebt compiles documentation and helps you keep records. It does not guarantee outcomes, provide legal strategy, or make determinations about your rights.
Mailing best practice
For record-keeping purposes, consider sending letters via certified mail with return receipt requested. This creates documentation of when letters were sent and received.
Important Disclaimer
ProofOfDebt provides standardized templates and documentation tools only. It is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice, credit repair services, or AI-generated legal reasoning.
The templates are based on provisions of federal law (FDCPA and FCRA). Using this tool does not guarantee any outcome. If you need legal advice, please consult a licensed attorney.