BPO Collections

DanAsh

Please help!
Today I received a letter from a company called BPO Collections regarding a £234 debt owed to Freemans in my name. I have never had an account with Freemans or purchased from them. When I rang up to find out more, they were able to give me the dates of the purchase, the last payment made, and when the first action was put into place (all between 2011 and 2013).
The only explanation I have for this is that my mother has bought something in my name as she was unable to get credit. It may be that she was aware of the debt. Unfortunately, I can't ask her as she passed away a few weeks ago. I have been informed that I have a 7 day grace period in which to sort things out. Is it worth calling again for more details of the debt (for example, what I'm supposed to be paying for), simply paying the debt regardless, or seeking advice elsewhere?
If this is a debt I have to pay then I will but I'm really wary if falling for a scam, particularly as we are struggling financially anyway after paying for the funeral!

sourcrates

Hi,

Firstly you can ignore there meaningless timeline.

Secondly don't call them, or speak on the phone to them again.

Unfortunately if it's in your name, you will probebley be liable for this, however you can pay it back at a rate you can comfortably afford.

The next thing to do is send them the provit letter, you are correct, they must prove you owe the debt before collection can commence.

Keep everything in writing from now on.

Link to provit letter here :

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/2607247

National_Debtline

Hi Dan

I’m sorry to hear about your loss.

At this point you’re perfectly entitled to insist on evidence that you owe the debt.

You could start by sending them this sample letter which disputes liability, and threatens to make a complaint unless they provide evidence that you are liable.

www.nationaldebtline.org/EW/sampleletters/Pages/Complaining-to-debt-collection-agencies-that-you-do-not-owe-the-debt-%28sole-name%29.aspx#

EDIT - cross posted with sourcrates

James
@natdebtline