How To Use The Collection Communications Log When Dealing With Debt Collectors

Introduction
We have often recommended that consumers who are dealing with debt collectors calling should use the “Collection Log” by our friend Pete Barry. This short article is to explain why and how to use the collection log most effectively.

One reason to use this (or something similar) is to keep all of the information about collection calls in one place. If you are like me you have calls and things to do scattered among post-it notes. But the better way to do things is to have everything grouped together. In this situation you should have all the information about collection calls in one place.

Going through the collection log for each call helps you capture all the information that you need. Sometimes when we don't have a “checklist” we can forget things. Ever gone on a trip and forgotten your toothbrush? That's why we have checklists – to make sure we have everything.

So, exactly what do we do with the collection log?

We hope that the collection log is easy to use but it never hurts to have explanation so we hope this helps you to use the log.

First Box – Date Of Call Or Communication
Simply record the date of the call. Often we think we will never forget when a certain call occurred but we do. So record the date you received the call. Or if it is a letter, record the date you received the letter. Sometimes collectors date letters weeks before they actually mail them so it is important to know exactly when you received the letter.

Second Box – Time Of Call
It is fine to use regular time (7:00 pm) or military time (19:00) but just make sure you are consistent. This is very important to know if a collector is calling at illegal times.

Third Box – Length Of Call
Collectors very often lie in their collection notes about the length of a call. They may use profanity and threaten you but put in their notes that the call lasted 11 seconds. If you will carefully note in this box how long the call took, then this will help to deal with dishonest collector notes.

Fourth Box – What Type Of Message Or Communication Did You Receive
With today's technology, we can get messages in all sorts of ways – emails, voicemails, calls to our cell phone, calls to our work phone, calls to our home phone, text messages, or even a message from our neighbor who has been illegally called. So, we need to note in this box exactly what the form of communication was so there will be no confusion down the road.

Fifth Box – Name Of The Actual Collector
We understand that most collectors use an alias. That's fine – just write down whatever they told you their name was. Most collectors only use one alias at a collection agency so if there is a lawsuit we can figure out who the collector actually is by using the alias.

Sixth Box – Name And Contact Information For The Collection Agency
We can't rely on Caller ID to tell us who is calling. Instead ask the collector who they work for and what the phone number is so you can return their call. If they won't give you this information, make a note of it here that the collector refused to identity the collection agency.

Seventh Box – Details Of The Communication
This is one of the most important areas of the communication log. Take as much space as you need. Write down as best you can all of the information given to you by the collector. This will be so helpful to you in remembering what was said. So take all the room you need.

Conclusion
Using this simple collection log can greatly help us discuss your options for dealing with abusive debt collectors. There is an old expression - “the faintest ink is better than the strongest memory” - there is truth to that saying. Use this collection log and you will have a very good record of what has happened in all of your communications with debt collectors.  Feel free to contact us to discuss your particular situation dealing with collection agencies.