Collection debt, which is different from current debt, can be eliminated. Collection debt is debt that is outstanding in your name that collection companies are trying to collect. A collection company has bought the outstanding debt from the original creditor and is attempting to collect it from you.

There are many companies that will counsel the consumer and tell them to pay off the collection debt. Know your rights. Don't be fooled by these companies. The information to eliminate collection debt is on the internet for you to educate yourself and implement. Many consumers are not aware of how to "fight" the debt and eliminate the collection debt entirely. You can do your research and do this yourself right here starting now. This is not to say 'go get credit cards' and max it out and avoid the collectors.

You can have a hardship situation in 24 hours. Hardship can be from medical emergencies, lawsuit, divorce, bankruptcy, employment loss, and you honestly are struggling to pay your daily bills. If you were responsible to pay your current debt - how did the current turn into collection debt? What major event happened to your life that changed your financial situation?

This is a quick action plan to get started in the process of eliminating your collection debts.
• Stop talking to the collectors. They are not your friend!
• Order your 3 credit reports to be mailed to you for free 877-322-8228 (1x year)
• Keep organized with your accounts. Keep a paper trail.
• Read and research these websites.

>debtorboards.com
>budhibbs.com

The first thing to do is to write a VOD - Validation of Debt letter to the collector as soon as possible. Samples of every letter you need to write is found on fair-debt-collection.com. Click on DISPUTING DEBT COLLECTIONS. Send it certified mail, return receipt.

Here are some facts about collections:
1. Your collection accounts have an expiration.

2. You can clear up your credit report. Do not hire someone to do this for you. After your collection accounts are gone, you can start working on your credit report.

3. FTC- Federal Trade Commission. Call them! 877-FTC HELP. They take complaints about collectors and their actions.

4. Experian, Transunion, and Equifax make tons of money from the collection industry.

5. The collection agencies are inaccurately reporting your accounts to the credit bureaus. This is a violation.

6. Your collection accounts have to be validated. This means that the collector has to prove that you owe them money. Technically, you don't owe the collection agency. (read, read, read those specific sites)

7. Your name and account number get sold over and over until you stop it. The JDBs (junk debt buyers) are counting on your ignorance and that you will start making payments. This is never ending. This is big profit.

8. Making a "settlement" for your balance does more damage to your credit. Do not make a settlement.

When your collections are eliminated, you will be a new person!

GO DO IT - I DID !