Collection agencies break federal rules every day. If your letter contains potential FDCPA issues, you could be entitled to monetary compensation — and it costs you absolutely nothing to find out.
Upload a photo or PDF. We’ll flag potential issues for informational purposes.
Note: Numbers shown are general informational statements about consumer complaints and statutory frameworks; results depend on facts and applicable law.
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) limits what collectors can say and do. When a collector crosses the line, the law may allow monetary compensation. DebtShield scans for potential issues so you can decide what to do next.
Collectors must provide certain disclosures about your rights (often within 5 days). Many letters appear to omit or bury required language.
Compensation depends on your facts; an attorney evaluates eligibility.
Threatening lawsuits, wage garnishment, or actions a collector doesn’t intend (or can’t legally take) may be unlawful.
DebtShield flags concerning language as potential issues.
Language implying you must pay immediately, that you’ll be arrested, or that you have fewer rights than you do can be a red flag.
Always verify with a licensed attorney.
Many letters contain 2–5+ problem areas. Depending on the claims and outcomes, damages can be higher when multiple issues are involved.
Use of ranges is informational only; amounts are never guaranteed.
Under federal law, if you win, the collection agency may have to pay your attorney’s fees. Many consumer protection attorneys work on a contingency basis — meaning you could pay $0 out of pocket.
The average FDCPA settlement ranges from $1,000 to $5,000. Some cases with multiple issues have resulted in awards of $10,000 or more.
Amounts shown are examples of outcomes reported in some cases and are not guarantees.
We identify potential issues for informational purposes only.
Fast, private, and designed for people who are stressed and short on time.
Take a clear photo of your collection letter with your phone (or upload a PDF).
Our AI checks for common problem patterns tied to FDCPA and FCRA compliance requirements.
If potential issues are found, we can connect you with a consumer protection attorney — free.
No obligation to hire anyone. We simply help you understand what could be in your letter so you can make an informed decision.
Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), collectors are strictly limited in what they can say and do. When they break the rules, you may be entitled to compensation.
We prioritize clarity and next steps, not shame or pressure.
Attorneys in our network focus on consumer protection law and often work on contingency — meaning they only get paid if you win.
DebtShield is not a law firm. This tool does not provide legal advice.
Clear answers, without the legal jargon.
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A single letter could contain potential issues — and the law could allow compensation. Find out in about 60 seconds.