Debt Verification Letter From Sherman Acq - What Now?
I sent a debt verification letter to Sherman Acquisition and in return they sent me an affidavit of debt notarized and signed by an attorney. The letter states that the debt collector is not required to keep detailed files of the debt. It also states that there is no obligation to forward copies of bill or other detailed evidence of the debt. Is this fact or fiction and what do I do next ?
My guess is that Sherman Acquisition purchased the debt at a steep discount, and they may or may not have acess to original proof of debt at the moment.
I purchased a $35K 2nd from Sherman Acquisition for $10K and I had to threaton to cancel the deal...in fact, I asked for my money back... before they sent me the mortgage I purchased.
I think they are hustlers... just like you... how much data do you give out just because someone asks for it??
www.creditboards.com is a great resource.
You'll find sample letters for the 2nd validation letter. A signed affidavit is impressive but I doubt that is validation. Are you convinced that you owe this company any money? I'd send them a 2nd letter which would emphasize that they have caused you damaged due to being denied credit, higher rates, etc.
Debt Collectors are obligated to live and die by the FDCPA. You can find a copy of it here:
http://www.ftc.gov/os/statutes/fdcpa/fdcpact.htm
Pay special attention to section 809. That spells out their requirements as to validation. Put together a custom response letter citing the FDCPA and how they are violating it. Don't be afraid to threaten to sue them. There are statutory damages built into the FDCPA for $1000 for violations (see section 813). Make sure you know what you are talking about before you make such threats. Speak to a local credit or consumer lawyer or a knowledgeable credit repair agency if you aren't comfortable with the situation. Best of luck.
Mario Costanz