What happens next?

You have until the date in the letter to answer. After that, one of three things happens. You agree on a payment. You show them the claim is wrong. Or they hand it to a lawyer who can sue.

First, find the calls

Pull up your call or text records for every number in the letter. For each one, ask three questions. Did we send it? Do we have written proof this person said yes? Was it more than four years ago?

The answers decide everything else. If you are not sure what counts as a yes, read what is consent.

Path one: agree on a payment

If the calls are real and you have no proof of consent, most businesses settle. You offer a number, in writing, with a reason. They answer. You sign a short agreement that says they will not sue over those calls and that you admit nothing. You pay in a way that leaves a record. Then it is over for those numbers.

The number in the letter is a starting point. It is usually lower than what the law would allow for the calls they listed. You can ask for the number to be lower, especially if some calls are too old or were not yours. See what could it cost.

Path two: show them they are wrong

If you have written proof the person said yes, or the calls were not yours, or they are more than four years old, you write back and show it. This is called disputing. It works when you have papers. It does not work when you just disagree.

Path three: do nothing

The date passes. The sender gives the file to lawyers. The lawyers file a lawsuit. You get served with court papers. Now a court sets the deadline, and if you miss that one, the court can decide against you without hearing your side. More on ignoring it.

Ask for more time if you need it

Before the date in the letter, write and ask for a short extension. Most senders say yes. Ask in writing and keep the answer.

Do you need a lawyer?

Not always. If the amount is small and the calls are in your records, you can handle it in writing. If the amount is big, or you think you have real proof of consent, or the letter talks about a class action, pay a lawyer for a fixed fee to look at it. Your state bar can help you find one.

Look at the website address on the letter. It should belong to the same company that signed the letter. If it does not, ask why before you reply.