Help dealing with Wescot debt agency

Ellie_jelly

Hi I am new to this forum so please be gentle!

My partner recieved a letter this morning from a Wescot debt collection agency, acting on behalf of Natwest stating that he owes them just over £1,000. He was aware of an old bank account that had been sat dormant for a couple of years after incurring bank charges (which he stupidly decided to ignore). We're not even sure if this is the correct amount owed. He's now willing to pay back in installments (which will probably take a long time), but after doing an Internet search on this agency I've seen so many bad reports, we haven't a clue which route to take. Many that have arranged payments have reported problems. Others say they are not even legally obliged to collect this money. But at the same time he would rather not recieve letter after letter from them as all our post is being recieved at my parents whilst we live in a campervan (long story!) and have them involved.

The point I'm trying to make is we know we need to get this paid off but is there another way other than using this Wescot company? They sound very dodgy. Also he is aware that this problem was brought on himself and has had a damn good ear bashing from me!

Any response is much appreciated, thanks

Tixy

Hi Ellie

If the debt has been sold then you'll have to deal with westcot. However first response is to send them a prove it letter (to prove OH owes it and to prove westcot have a right to collect it)

http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showpost.html?p=11570893&postcount=2

Ellie_jelly

Thanks Tixy

What happens if they can't prove this?

Tixy

If they couldn't prove it then you won't pay.

And you then just need to check they haven't put anything on your credit report.

They are likely to come back with something to this letter (eventually) if they do come back here and tell us what they have sent and get more advice.