Credit dispute question

[xmas74]

On May 9th I found an account on my credit report that had been reported the day before. It was from Midwest Recovery, a name I did not recognize. This is a collection account originally with American Web Loans, another name I didn't recognize. The original amount was for $400 but they had me in collection for $1200. I contacted the company and they said they had been in contact with me via mail. I stated that I'd never received a letter and that I wanted them to send me verified proof of the original debt to my address.

On May 18 I still had no received the proof and decided to file a dispute with Transunion. As of today the site says it is still in dispute, though a phone call states that they ruled with the creditor. I asked what information they received from the creditor and the young woman on the phone said they only needed to have the creditor say that it was a valid account, without any proof. They also stated that the creditor claimed to have sent me an email and a certified letter. I've received neither.

Nothing here sounds right. I fight to keep my credit decent yet someone can make a claim without proof? That doesn't seem fair.

What is my next step? An attorney? I've since discovered two more accounts added that I never knew about, one by the same company and another by Portfolio Recovery. They now show in multiple credit reports. I contacted Portfolio and they informed me there are new laws that state they only need prove my debt in a court of law.

This is dropping my credit when I need it for college loans for my kid. Any advice?

[SummerSnow]

1. read this, it has helped me alot. Never call them to request anything

https://twocents.lifehacker.com/how-to-request-a-debt-validation-when-dealing-with-coll-1623077279


and here is a sample letter...

http://usacreditlawyer.com/debt-collection/rights/Sample-Debt-Validation-Letter.pdf

good luck

[xmas74]

4. Thanks

I think it's a bottom feeding scam. What made me angry is that the credit bureau said they don't actually have to investigate a dispute and will take the creditors word over my information.

[marylandblue]

2. You appear to be a victim of identity theft.

Here are the steps to take. Some may not apply to you. The main thing is to file an identity theft report with the police and the FTC and send the report to the creditors and the credit reporting agencies. Also freeze your credit.

https://www.bankrate.com/finance/credit/steps-for-victims-of-identity-fraud.aspx

[xmas74]

3. Thank you.

It could be identity theft, though I've read that both companies are bottom feeders who will go for anyone with even the same last name.
Midwest has had a slew of complaints, all from the same time they added this to my report. They are located about two hours from me and I offered to drive there for a physical, in person appointment where they could hand over any paperwork I've requested and have proof of my signature on file. I have a friend in St Charles and I'd love an excuse to visit. I was informed that any attempt to physically visit would be reported to the local police.

It might be identity theft but I suspect they know I don't owe this account and can't prove it.

[marylandblue]

5. I think it would still be considered a type of identity theft

But even if it isn't, if you treat it that way, you are putting yourself in a stronger legal position. Your police report is evidence that the debt isn't yours.

[3Hotdogs]

6. Also google, "defeat Pressler and Pressler

P & P were put out of business but the information may be relevant to your situation.