Sued by Portfolio Recovery Associates? Learn the Next Steps and Get a Free Review
Portfolio Recovery Associates (PRA) is one of the largest debt buyers in the United States, operating as a subsidiary of PRA Group, Inc. PRA purchases portfolios of defaulted consumer receivables — primarily credit card debt — and collects through direct contact and litigation. PRA files tens of thousands of lawsuits each year and has faced significant regulatory action, including a $108 million settlement with the CFPB in 2015 for practices including suing consumers with insufficient documentation.
Type
Debt Buyer
Parent Company
PRA Group, Inc.
Common Debt Types
credit card, personal loan, auto deficiency, retail credit
Common FDCPA Violations by Portfolio Recovery Associates
Filing lawsuits based on insufficient or fabricated documentation
Suing consumers after the statute of limitations has expired on the debt
Attempting to collect debts that were already paid or settled with the original creditor
Failing to properly verify debts after receiving written dispute from consumer
Adding unauthorized interest, fees, or collection costs to the original debt balance
Your Situation With Portfolio Recovery Associates
If Portfolio Recovery Associates Has Not Sued You Yet
You have more leverage. Act now — this is the best time to negotiate.
- Pre-suit negotiations typically get better settlements
- A timely written validation request may be available
- Statute of limitations may bar the debt entirely
If Portfolio Recovery Associates Has Already Filed a Lawsuit
Do not wait. The collector expects 70-80%, but we still push for less.
- You typically have a 30-day response deadline
- Missing the deadline can result in a default judgment
- Attorney negotiation still reduces the amount significantly
What the Free Review Covers
- Location and court status. Tell us your state, whether you have been sued, and every deadline shown on the papers.
- Account and document check. We identify the collector, account, current balance support, and communications you can provide.
- Scope decision. Eligible California matters may qualify for limited written creditor outreach through Lion Legal, P.C.
- Court boundary. StopCollectors does not prepare or file an Answer, appear in court, monitor a docket, or protect a deadline.
- Nationwide routing. An out-of-state or court matter may need self-help, legal aid, or an independent local lawyer. Any referral requires your permission and is not guaranteed.
Your Rights When Sued by Portfolio Recovery Associates
Right to demand proof they own the debt
Right to dispute the amount claimed
Right to raise statute of limitations defense
Right to damages for FDCPA violations
Sued by Portfolio Recovery Associates in Your State?
Frequently Asked Questions About Portfolio Recovery Associates
Who is Portfolio Recovery Associates?
Portfolio Recovery Associates (PRA) is a major debt buyer owned by PRA Group, Inc. They purchase defaulted consumer debts from banks and credit card companies and pursue collection through calls, letters, credit reporting, and lawsuits.
Has PRA been in trouble with regulators?
Yes. In 2015, the CFPB ordered PRA Group to pay $108 million for using litigation tactics that violated the law, including suing consumers without verifying debts and collecting debts that were not owed.
Can I beat a PRA lawsuit?
Yes. Many PRA lawsuits can be successfully defended by challenging their standing to sue, demanding proof of the chain of title, raising statute of limitations defenses, and challenging the accuracy of the amount claimed.
What should I do if PRA contacts me?
Request debt validation in writing within 30 days of their first contact. Do not acknowledge the debt or make any payments, as this could restart the statute of limitations in some states. Consider consulting with a consumer rights attorney.
Can PRA garnish my bank account?
Only after obtaining a court judgment. If PRA sues you and you do not respond, they will get a default judgment that allows wage garnishment and bank levies in most states. Filing your Answer is the critical first step to prevent this.
State-Specific Guides for Portfolio Recovery Associates
Reviewed by Ariella, Esq. This information is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice.
Get Your Free Portfolio Recovery Associates Case Review
We accept inquiries nationwide. Eligible California matters may qualify for limited creditor outreach; court work and out-of-state matters may need independent local counsel.