Fair Collections & Outsourcing (FCO) on Your Credit Report? Fight Back and Win

 If you're currently dealing with Fair Collections & Outsourcing, then you know firsthand how intimidating their debt collection efforts can be. However, it is possible to handle collections activity from this company in an effective manner that keeps your interests top-of-mind.

In this article, we'll share tips and resources on how to better deal with creditors so that you can remain informed, knowledgeable and in control while tackling debt challenges head on.

What Does Fair Collections and Outsourcing Do?

Fair Collections and Outsourcing is a third-party debt collector based in Maryland and founded in 1996. When a creditor is unable to collect an owed debt, they may outsource their debt to the company to resolve the matter - the collections company will then take over negotiating payment plans and sending reminders to those who are delinquent on payments. 

In most cases, Fair Collections and Outsourcing purchases these debts for much less than the amount owed - although they may also charge the company a fee to collect on the debt. This strategy works well for creditors who are unable to recoup money otherwise, but can create a major nuisance for consumers. 

Is Fair Collections and Outsourcing a Legitimate Company?

Yes, Fair Collections and Outsourcing is a legitimate debt collector. If you need to get in touch with the company about an outstanding debt, they can be reached using the following information:

• Phone Number: (877) 324-7265
• Address: 12304 Baltimore Ave Ste E Beltsville, MD 20705-1314
• Website: https://www.fco.com/
• BBB Rating: 1/5 

Despite its legal right to collect on debts, Fair Collections and Outsourcing has frequently come under fire from consumer protection groups for allegedly using coercive Debt Collection Practices. The Better Business Bureau - where they score a 1-star rating out of 5 - and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau have both logged hundreds of complaints from individuals alleging the company uses unethical tactics to extract payments. 

Unfortunately, these complaints are all too common in the field of debt collections, where firms often focus more on their own financial bottom line rather than upholding ethical standards when pursuing what is owed by consumers.

Why Am I Getting Phone Calls from Fair Collections and Outsourcing? 

It can be alarming to be contacted by Fair Collections and Outsourcing for an outstanding debt, especially if you don't recognize the debt. This could be the result of not receiving a bill due to a change of addresses, but there are also scenarios where a mistake may have been made.

In some cases, the amount of money demanded from you is inaccurate, and in others, the debt may not even be yours in the first place - you'd be surprised how often collectors make this mistake. Here are a few common circumstances that cause debt collectors to pursue the wrong person for a debt or request the wrong amount of money:

• Paid debts

Debts that have already been successfully fulfilled should not be listed on credit reports or included in any other financial documents.

• Unrelated debts

Any debt that is not legally or financially associated with an individual should not be reported to credit bureaus or in any other financial records.

• Identity theft accounts

Any account created due to identity theft should be immediately reported and disputed to ensure that no future financial complications arise from the fraudulent activity.

• Falsely reported debts

Credit reports and other financial documents should not contain any information regarding unpaid debts or accounts reported as late when they actually are paid in full and on time.

Consumers have the right to protect themselves if they feel they may be the victim of debt collection harassment. If you think you are being falsely accused of owing a debt, contact Fair Credit right away. We can work with you and dispute debts on your behalf. We will make certain that any errors are removed from your report.

What Can I Do If I’m Being Harassed by Fair Collections and Outsourcing?

It can be distressing when companies like Fair Collections and Outsourcing use aggressive tactics in their attempts to collect on overdue payments. Luckily, there are federal protections enshrined in the FDCPA that prevent collectors from behaving inappropriately towards consumers. 

The FDCPA stipulates that debt collectors cannot use false or misleading information, engage in harassment or make repeated phone calls. By familiarizing yourself with these limitations on a collector’s behavior, you can ensure that your rights are protected under law, and take appropriate action if necessary.

The law applies to most consumer debts including credit card, medical and student loan debt. Understanding your rights will help you navigate the challenging process of dealing with debt collectors and insulate yourself from unfair practices employed by collections agencies. Here are some of the prohibited behaviors under federal law:

• Harassing or threatening language such as insults, profanity, or intimidation
• Contacting borrowers at inconvenient times, typically before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m.
• Communicating with third parties about a consumer's debt without the consumer's permission
• Publishing lists of consumers who have not paid their debts
• Demanding payment or partial payment that is higher than what is legally allowed under state law
• Contacting a consumer via postcard, which would reveal their financial status to the public
• Making false statements about consumer’s creditworthiness or legal rights
• Using deceptive tactics to collect payments such as falsely claiming to be an attorney, government representative or from a credit bureau

Having written proof of correspondence or records from telephone conversations is essential for holding Fair Collections and Outsourcing accountable in the event of any violations. This evidence is crucial to the success of any legal action should it become necessary. 

It is advised to enlist the help of an experienced lawyer if that route becomes unavoidable - skilled legal counsel will familiarize you with all potential options and make sure they are applied effectively.

Contact Us For Your Free Case Review

At Fair Credit, we understand the complexities of unfair debt collection practices and the stress that often follows for those involved. Whether you are dealing with a large collection agency or a smaller, private firm, our highly-trained legal team is ready to assist you with every step of your case. We are committed to safeguarding your rights above all else and will strive to reach a favorable resolution in an expedited timeframe.

Put an end to collection anxiety - take action now and get started on your free initial case review with us today. Let us help restore the peace of mind that comes from knowing your legal interests are in good hands.