Can a 3rd Party Debt Collector Sue You?
Yes, a third-party debt collector or debt buyer may bring a lawsuit when legally entitled to pursue the claim. A company does not necessarily have to be your original credit card issuer to seek payment through court.
A debt buyer purchases accounts from another company. Other collection agencies work on behalf of creditors. Review the complaint to identify who is suing and the basis for the claim.
Not recognizing the plaintiff is a reason to investigate. It does not automatically make the lawsuit invalid. Review the account information, amount claimed, and documents supporting the plaintiff’s right to collect.
The age of the debt also matters. Debt collectors covered by the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act cannot sue or threaten to sue over time-barred debt. Applicable time limits depend on the circumstances and law.
Summons Master helps you prepare your response to a debt buyer lawsuit. Upload your summons, answer simple questions, and review before you pay.
