Ashburn, VA asked in Business Law and Collections for Ohio

Q: My friend got a debt collection letter to appear in court.

Can a debt collection agency sue if they don't have my friend SSN and the report doesn't appear on her credit report. i told her to ignore it I think its a scheme tactic but she is worried?

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1 Lawyer Answer
Joel Allen Holt
Joel Allen Holt
Answered

A: The question is a bit vague, but generally speaking, the debt collector (or the party owed the debt) can file a lawsuit if they have proof that the debt is valid, outstanding, and binding on your friend. They don't need a SSN to file the suit and the debt does not have to appear on the credit report - in fact, not all debts appear on credit reports.

Your friend should contact an attorney to discuss their rights, potential resolution of the debt, and other options. If your friend has been sued, then they definitely need to contact an attorney. Thanks.

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