Dealing with Debt Collection from Harris & Harris, Ltd.: What You Need to Know
Facing debt collection from Harris & Harris, Ltd. can be overwhelming, but understanding your rights and options can help. This guide covers key information about the agency, debt resolution strategies, and how to protect yourself.
π’ Who Are Harris & Harris, Ltd.?
Harris & Harris, Ltd. is a debt collection agency headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. They specialize in collecting debts in industries such as:
- Medical debts π₯ from hospitals and healthcare providers.
- Government collections ποΈ including traffic violations, taxes, and fines.
- Utilities and telecommunications π for unpaid bills.
π Contact Information:
π Address: 111 W. Jackson Blvd, Suite 650, Chicago, IL 60604
π Phone: (312) 251-2300
View their website and BBB profile here.
π° Should You Negotiate a Debt Settlement or Pay in Full?
If Harris & Harris, Ltd. contacts you, you may wonder whether to:
- Pay in full β Avoid future legal trouble and improve your credit score.
- Negotiate a settlement β Pay a lower amount to resolve the debt.
When to choose settlement:
- You cannot afford to pay the full amount.
- The debt is old, and the agency may accept a reduced sum.
- You want to resolve the account but need a lower lump sum option.
When to pay in full:
- The debt is valid, and you want to avoid collections.
- You have the financial ability to clear the balance.
π Learn more about debt negotiation and your rights.
π Will Paying a Collection Debt Remove It from Your Credit Report?
Debt collections stay on your credit report for up to seven years, even after payment. However, you can:
- Negotiate “Pay for Delete” β Some agencies agree to remove negative marks upon payment.
- Request a goodwill adjustment β If the debt is settled, ask the collector to update your report.
- Dispute incorrect information β If the debt is inaccurate, dispute it with credit bureaus.
Check out credit report agencies to learn how to handle reporting errors.
β³ How Long Can Harris & Harris, Ltd. Legally Collect a Debt?
Each state has a statute of limitations that limits how long collectors can sue you for unpaid debt. Once the time expires, they cannot legally force you to pay.
π Common time limits:
- Credit card debt: 3β6 years
- Medical bills: 3β7 years
- Auto loans: 4β6 years
π Be careful! Making a payment may restart the clock on an old debt. Learn how many years a debt collector can pursue you here.
β οΈ Can Debt Collectors Garnish Your Wages?
Harris & Harris, Ltd. can sue you for unpaid debts. If they win, they might:
π° Garnish your wages β Take a portion of your paycheck.
π Put a lien on your property β Claim ownership of assets.
π¦ Freeze your bank account β Block access to funds.
If you receive a summons, do not ignore it. Learn what happens if a collection agency sues you to protect yourself.
π Stop Harassment from Harris & Harris, Ltd.
You have rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). Debt collectors CANNOT:
- Call before 8 AM or after 9 PM.
- Harass or threaten you.
- Lie about the amount you owe.
- Contact your employer if you ask them to stop.
If you’re being harassed, find out how to handle debt collectors and take action.
π‘οΈ How Consumer Rights Law Firm Can Help
At Consumer Rights Law Firm PLLC, we protect consumers from unfair debt collection. Our experienced attorneys help:
- Stop harassment from aggressive collectors.
- Dispute inaccurate debts and credit report errors.
- Negotiate better settlement terms or file lawsuits if necessary.
If Harris & Harris, Ltd. has contacted you, take action now. Contact us today for a free consultation. π