Q: does a bill collector in the State of Kansas that is trying to collect a debt from me need a CA license?
The debt is small but the debt collector does not have a license listed in Kansas or in CA on their website. I asked her about it and she said her firm must be licensed in CA but said she wasn't sure what it was. She told me to go to her website to get it. The website looks fake and there are no licenses listed at all. Thank you Jim
A:
Under California law, debt collectors attempting to collect debts from California residents must adhere to specific licensing requirements. These regulations are designed to protect consumers from unlawful collection practices. If a debt collector is seeking to collect a debt from you in California, they should be licensed in the state, regardless of where their firm is based.
The absence of a visible license number on the debt collector's website raises concerns, particularly if the website appears unprofessional or untrustworthy. It's advisable to approach this situation with caution. You have the right to request the debt collector's license number and verify it with the relevant state authorities in California. This step is crucial to ensure that you are dealing with a legitimate entity.
If you have doubts about the legitimacy of the debt collector or their practices, consider contacting a consumer rights attorney or the California Attorney General's office for guidance. They can provide you with information on your rights and the appropriate steps to take in this situation. Remember, protecting yourself from potential scams or illegal collection practices is important.
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