To Live Not To Die

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  Confusing, eh ...
  
  
  • TO LIVE, NOT TO DIE - he LIVES.
    
    TO LIVE NOT, TO DIE - he DIES.
  
  Somebody's life depends on where you put the comma. This is a 2,500 years old phrase formulated by the ancient Greek lawmakers to demonstrate the importance of the correct expression.
  
  We are simple people. We can live fine using our everyday language. But, we are dealing here with people who get paid to find the weak points in our language, especially if a CA is after us. This is why it's very important to educate ourselves and to use the proper language.
  
  
  So, these are my 5 cents (lbrown59, don't tell me they ain't worth a nickel
  
  â?¢ If you have problems with your credit report - read FCRA. If you have problems with a collection agency - read FDCPA. Both laws are not that big and complicated. Read them few times and you'll understand the basics. There are few sections of each law that are applicable to at least 90% of the cases. You must know your rights, only then you can defend yourself.
  
  â?¢ As I said in another post, you can't just take a sample letter, change few words and send it. You MUST understand everything you put in writing. If there is a law reference, read it to find out if it really applies to your case. Use specific words, like: erroneous, outdated, misleading, or unverifiable. Mere explanation of the reason a debt was not paid might not constitute a dispute and does not require the CRA to re-investigate or accept your written dispute statements.
  
  â?¢ Post the letter you want to send before you send it. Let the CN experts "approve" it. It may start a long discussion, but at the end of it you will have the right weapon in your hands. Ask as many questions as needed, so you understand the basics of your problem and its solution. Search and read the board. Your problem is probably not unique - other people have had it too. Find out how they solved it.
  
  â?¢ Be organized. Take notes. Keep a copy of everything you send. When you get an answer, read the letter you sent, read the answer, outline what was answered and what wasn't. Be consistent at what you request. Don't complain about something you haven't requested - this makes you weak and gives them the ability to play with you.
  
  â?¢ THINK! No matter what everybody says, think it over by yourself. Read the applicable law and find the logic in your case. Not because the others might be wrong, but to build your confidence and to avoid the confusion each time someone contacts you regarding your credit.