Have you ever been surprised by a call from a medical debt collection agency about a bill you thought was already handled? Medical bills account for more than half of all debt on credit reports in the U.S. — and many of those debts are disputed or inaccurate. These collections can hurt credit scores, create stress, and even lead to lawsuits if left unaddressed.
At the Law Office of Joel Gonzalez, we understand how frustrating and stressful medical bill collections can be. As a debt relief law firm in Texas, we help people challenge unfair collection practices and find real solutions for medical debt relief.
In this blog, we will look at how to dispute questionable claims, when to seek legal help, and what protections exist to stop harassment from collectors.
Know Your Rights When a Collection Agency Calls
Medical debt collectors must follow federal and state laws when contacting patients. Understanding your rights is the first step toward regaining control.
- Request written validation:Within 30 days of first contact, you have the right to request written verification of the debt. This helps confirm whether the balance is accurate and actually yours.
- Stop harassing calls:You can send a written request asking the agency to stop contacting you directly. This does not erase the debt, but it gives you breathing room to evaluate your options.
- Check for billing errors:Sometimes insurance companies misprocess claims or fail to cover procedures they should have. Request a detailed bill and compare it with your insurance explanation of benefits.
Disputing Medical Debt the Right Way
If a charge looks wrong, dispute it as soon as possible. Put your dispute in writing and keep copies of all correspondence. Include supporting documents such as insurance statements or proof of prior payment.
We recommend taking these steps:
- Send a written dispute letterto both the collection agency and the original medical provider.
- Follow up with the credit bureausif the debt appears on your credit report. Provide proof that the amount is disputed so they can update your file.
- Document every call and letterfrom the agency. Keeping a paper trail can help protect you if the matter escalates.
When to Call a Bankruptcy Lawyer
Some medical debt collections can lead to lawsuits if left unresolved. If you are facing court papers, multiple collection actions, or risk of losing essential property, it may be time to speak with a bankruptcy lawyer. Legal guidance can stop collection efforts through the automatic stay and provide structured options for resolving all of your medical debt at once.
Ready to Stop the Stress of Collections?
Are debt collectors still calling even after you’ve disputed the bill? You do not have to handle this on your own. The Law Office of Joel Gonzalez helps patients protect their rights, stop medical bill collections, and find real relief through legal solutions.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation — we can review your case, explain your options, and help you take control before the situation gets worse.
