BT Sent debt to agency despite payment arrangement

ashleydrollinson

Hello

Recently I had to move house quickly and close my BT account down.

I got a final bill from BT. I explained to BT my situation that I could not afford to pay and they gave me an extension for 3 months to pay.

1 Week later I get a debt collection letter for Credit Solutions who have whacked 25% on top for an admin fee.

I tried contacting BT and they confirmed they had done this and wouldn't explain why other than "it was past due".

I filed an official complaint (although never given a reference number despite asking) and am waiting for a call back from BT (heard that one before).

I also tried dealing with Credit Solutions and offered to settle the debt (excluding the 25% admin fee) within the same payment extension given to me by BT, but they refused and said they will be pursuing the full amount through the court straight away.

What rights (if any) do I have to defend against this action by the debt collection agency. As far as I am concerned I still have 2 months to clear the balance with BT........

Thanks for any help

DVardysShadow

Have you had notice from BT of the debt being assigned?

If not, I would just continue to pay them according to the arrangement agreed. You do have it in writing don't you?

hippyadam

ashleydrollinson wrote: »

I also tried dealing with Credit Solutions and offered to settle the debt (excluding the 25% admin fee) within the same payment extension given to me by BT, but they refused and said they will be pursuing the full amount through the court straight away.

Well for starters, ignoring an offer of payment is certainly contrary to the OFT Guidance on collections. Also they'd be onto a loser if they try and force the matter in court after refusing to accept a payment agreement.

First things first, stop calling these people (both BT & the DCA) and write to them. Explain the situation in full, contest the addition of the 25% admin fee and again offer the same arrangement you offered to BT initially. Keep copies of these letters on file.

I'd be surprised if after receiving the letter they continue to try and push for immediate settlement, but it wouldn't be unknown. Generally you get more sense out of these people if you write, as telephone collection agents normally operate on a commission basis and are therefore more liable to, how shall we say, stretch the truth...

Don't let them bully you and make sure you raise merry hell with BT for sending your account to a DCA when you had an agreement in place. Out of interest when was the first payment due? If its been and gone have you made the payment anyway?

BT_company_representative

Hi ashleydrollinson,

Do you know when this three month extension was agreed? I can take a look at your account and check this on my end, so if you want drop me an email with your BT account number, name and link to this thread and I'll get back to you.

If you know how much was agreed to be paid per week/fortnight/month etc can you let me know?

Thanks,

Stephanie
BT Support