How to Ask for Proof of a Debt
Before you pay a debt collector or debt purchaser, it is reasonable to ask for written confirmation of the debt — who you originally owed money to, the amount, and how it has been calculated. This page explains what to ask for and what to be aware of.
General guidance only. This page provides general information. It is not regulated financial or legal advice. Always get free regulated debt advice before taking action — see services listed below.
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Why You Might Want Written Confirmation
When a debt collector or purchaser contacts you, the details they give you verbally or in an initial letter may not include everything you need to verify the debt. Asking for written confirmation helps you:
- — Verify the debt is actually yours and belongs to you
- — Check the amount is correct and understand how charges have been applied
- — Identify who the original creditor was, in case the debt has been sold
- — Have a paper trail if there is a later dispute about what was owed
- — Allow a free debt adviser to review the full debt picture with you
What to Ask For
Name of the original creditor
The company you originally took the credit with (e.g. the bank or finance provider), not just the name of the firm chasing you now.
The amount owed and how it is calculated
A breakdown of the original debt, plus any interest or charges added, so you can verify the total is correct.
Date the account was opened
This can help establish when the debt arose and whether any limitation period considerations may be relevant — though always get advice on this.
Date of last payment (if any)
Relevant for establishing how long the debt has been outstanding and whether statute of limitations issues may apply.
Copy of the original credit agreement (where applicable)
For many regulated consumer credit agreements, you may be able to request a copy of the original signed agreement. A specialist debt advice service can advise on this.
Important Things to Be Aware Of
Asking for proof is not the same as disputing the debt
Asking for written confirmation of the debt details is different from formally disputing that you owe the debt at all. If you believe the debt is not yours or the amount is wrong, this is a separate step that may have different legal implications. Get free regulated advice before formally disputing a debt.
Do not ignore letters while you wait
Even if you have sent a written request for confirmation, do not ignore any further letters or communication from the firm while you wait for a response. Ignoring debt collection correspondence can allow the situation to escalate. Keep all letters safe and get free advice if you are concerned.
Statute-barred debts — get advice first
If a debt may be statute-barred (generally, six years in England and Wales with no payment and no court action — five years in Scotland), do not make any payment without getting free advice first. Making a payment, even a small one, can restart the limitation period in some cases. Contact National Debtline (0808 808 4000) or Citizens Advice (0800 144 8848) before acting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ask a debt collector to prove the debt?
Yes. You can ask any debt collector or debt purchaser to provide written confirmation of the debt — including the original creditor's name, the amount owed and how it has been calculated. FCA-regulated firms must deal with your request fairly. Before making any payment, it is reasonable to ask for this information in writing.
Does asking for proof of debt stop collection action?
Asking for written confirmation is not the same as legally disputing the debt. In some circumstances, a firm may pause collection activity while providing a statement, but this is not a guaranteed legal right in all cases. Do not ignore letters while waiting for a response. Get free debt advice from Citizens Advice (0800 144 8848) or National Debtline (0808 808 4000) if you are unsure what to do.
What information should I ask for?
Ask for: the name of the original creditor, the date the account was opened, the amount of the original debt, a breakdown of any interest and charges added, the date of the last payment (if any), and where applicable a copy of the original credit agreement. Put your request in writing and keep a copy.
Is asking for proof the same as disputing the debt?
No — asking for written confirmation of the debt details is different from formally disputing the debt. Formally disputing a debt (for example, claiming you do not owe it at all) is a separate step. If you believe the debt is not yours or the amount is wrong, get free advice from National Debtline (0808 808 4000) or Citizens Advice before taking that step.
Should I ignore letters while I wait for proof?
No. Do not ignore any debt collection letters even while you are waiting for a written statement. Ignoring letters can allow the situation to escalate — for example, the creditor may apply to court for a County Court Judgement (CCJ). Acknowledge your request has been sent and get free debt advice if you are concerned about the situation.