Frequently Asked Questions
Plain-English answers about debt collection lawsuits, costs, timelines, and your rights.
What does StopCollectors do?
We are a self-help, done-for-you document-preparation service. We prepare your court response, debt-validation letters, and settlement offers; you review, approve, and sign everything before it's sent; then we file or send it on your behalf. We also check for FDCPA violations and can help you connect with a licensed attorney if the collector broke the law.
Is StopCollectors a law firm?
No. StopCollectors is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice or legal representation. We are a self-help document-preparation service — we prepare documents that you review, approve, and sign as the decision-maker. When a matter needs a lawyer, such as a court appearance or pursuing an FDCPA claim, we can help you connect with a licensed attorney in your state.
How much does it cost?
It's a single $499 one-time flat fee. We prepare your court response plus your validation and settlement letters; you approve and sign; then we file and send them on your behalf. There are no hidden costs and no percentages. The case review itself is free, and if we can't help with your case, you don't pay.
How quickly can you prepare my response?
Standard delivery is 2-3 business days. Priority delivery is same business day. If your deadline is urgent, call us and we will expedite so you have time to review and sign before it's filed.
What if I've already missed my deadline?
If a default judgment has been entered, you may be able to file a motion to vacate. Contact us to discuss your options — we can prepare the documents for you, and connect you with a licensed attorney if your situation calls for one.
Do you cover all 50 states?
Yes. We prepare court responses for debt collection lawsuits filed in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. You review, approve, and sign your documents before they are filed.
What is an affirmative defense?
An affirmative defense is a legal reason why the collector should lose even if the debt is real. Examples include statute of limitations (debt is too old), lack of standing (they can't prove they own the debt), and incorrect amount. We help you raise the applicable defenses in the response you review and sign.
What happens after I file my Answer?
The case enters the discovery phase where both sides can request information. Many cases are dismissed or settled after the Answer is filed because the collector does not have adequate documentation. We can prepare settlement offers for you to review and sign at that stage.
Can I really pursue a claim against a debt collector?
If the collector violated the FDCPA, you may be entitled to damages — statutory damages of up to $1,000 plus actual damages and attorney fees. We help you document the violations and can connect you with a licensed attorney to pursue a claim. We don't file the claim for you; that's a step for a licensed attorney.
What if I owe the money?
Even if you owe the debt, you have rights. The collector must prove the correct amount, they must sue within the statute of limitations, and they must follow the FDCPA. Filing a response protects you and gives you leverage to negotiate a settlement — and we can prepare that response and a settlement offer for you to review and sign.
Sued or hassled by a debt collector? We'll handle the response.
Free case review — no obligation. We check your deadline, prepare your response and any letters, and you approve everything before it's sent. You stay in control the whole way.