Debt Collection Agencies: A Deep Dive

Debt collection agencies contact millions of consumers each year by phone, mail, and credit reporting. These contacts often involve debts consumers do not recognize, accounts that lack clear documentation, or collection activity that raises legal questions.

This page serves as a starting point for consumers dealing with third-party debt collectors. It explains how debt collection generally works, outlines basic consumer rights under federal law, and links to detailed reviews of specific collection agencies.

How This Research Is Conducted

The information on this page and the individual company reviews is based on a review of publicly available sources and is intended to help consumers understand how debt collection agencies operate and what protections may apply.

How to Use This Page

This page may be helpful if:

• A debt collection agency has contacted you and you want to understand your rights
• A collection account appeared on your credit report and you do not recognize it
• You are unsure whether a debt collector is required to provide documentation
• You want information about a specific collection company before responding

Each linked page explains:

• The background of the collection agency
• The types of debts it typically attempts to collect
• Common issues reported by consumers in public complaints
• How federal debt collection law applies
• Practical steps consumers may consider

Debt Collection Agencies Reviewed

Select the name of the company contacting you to view a detailed review.

• IC System
• National Credit Systems
• Resurgent Capital Services
• Portfolio Recovery Associates
• CCS Financial Services, Inc.
• National Credit Adjusters
• Ability Recovery Services, LLC
• Aldous & Associates, PLLC

Additional agencies are added as new complaint data and court records are reviewed.

Not Sure Who Is Contacting You?

Consumers are often contacted by collection companies they do not recognize. In many cases:

• The debt collector is different from the original creditor
• The company name on a voicemail does not match the name on a credit report
• The account has been transferred or sold multiple times

Federal law generally requires third-party debt collectors to provide written information identifying the debt and the original creditor upon request. Understanding who is contacting you is often an important first step before responding or making any payment.

Consumer Rights Under Federal Law

The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act regulates how third-party debt collectors may communicate with consumers. Among other things, the law:

• Limits how and when collectors may contact consumers
• Requires clear disclosure of the debt and the original creditor
• Provides consumers the right to request written debt validation
• Restricts misleading, deceptive, or harassing conduct
• How disputed debts are reported to credit bureaus

Get Help With Debt Collection Issues

If a debt collection agency is contacting you repeatedly, refusing to provide clear documentation, or reporting inaccurate information to credit bureaus, you may have rights under federal law.

Free case evaluations are available to help consumers understand their options.