Are you being contacted or sued by Portfolio Recovery Associates, LLC (PRA)? If so, you are not alone. There are many debt-buying companies out there. Debt buyers purchase delinquent debts to collect money on the debts they purchased in bulk. Other debt buyers that we frequently see are Midland Funding, Cavalry SPV, and Encore Capital Group.
Who is Portfolio Recovery Associates?
Portfolio Recovery Associates, LLC is a debt collection company with a history of complaints. In fact, they have been accused of aggressive tactics and Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) violations. They even lost a lawsuit for “acting maliciously” in their pursuit of a credit card debt that did not belong to the woman they sued. But, this is a legitimate third party debt collector and is not a scam. Typically, Portfolio Recovery handles various consumer debts. For example, retail, utilities, and insurance debts, to name a few.
What Can You Do?
If you have not been served, you need to find out the statute of limitations on the debt in order to validate the debt. With this information, you may be able to negotiate a settlement.
Already Served?
So, did you receive a lawsuit from a process server? If so, this lawsuit is real and should be taken seriously. However, if you do nothing, you run the risk of wage garnishment, property seizure, or liens placed against your property or you.
In California, you must respond within thirty days of receiving the summons and complaint. However, the response time will vary based on the state in which you live.
So, once served, act quickly. If Portfolio Recovery Associates wins, you will end up with a judgment against you. But, you have options to avoid the judgment against you: fight it in court, settle your debt, or file for bankruptcy.
Need More Information?
If you are being sued by a debt buyer like Portfolio Recovery Associates, call our office today for a free consultation.