Yes, Harris and Harris Limited is a legitimate debt collection agency that has been in operation since 1968
Latest Update (May 2026)
As of May 2026, concerns surrounding the “Harris and Harris debt collector scam” continue to grow online, largely because scammers are increasingly impersonating legitimate collection agencies to pressure consumers into making fake payments. Harris & Harris, Ltd. is a real debt collection company operating in the United States, but fraudsters frequently misuse the company’s name in suspicious calls, text messages, emails, and fake collection notices.
Recent consumer complaints commonly involve aggressive robocalls, threats of lawsuits or wage garnishment, demands for immediate payment, and refusal to provide written debt validation. Many scam attempts also involve fake toll payment notices and text-message phishing schemes designed to steal financial information. Experts continue to warn consumers not to send money through gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, Cash App, Venmo, or other instant payment methods unless the debt has been independently verified.
If you are contacted by someone claiming to represent Harris & Harris, experts recommend requesting written debt verification before discussing payment. Consumers should also contact the original creditor directly using official contact information rather than numbers or links included in suspicious messages. Never share Social Security numbers, banking information, or debit card details until you confirm the debt is legitimate.
Have you recently received a call, text, or letter from Harris & Harris, Ltd.? You’re not alone. Thousands of consumers each year search online asking whether Harris & Harris is legitimate or part of a scam. While the company itself is real, the rise in impersonation scams and disputed collection attempts has made many people cautious. Understanding your rights and recognizing the warning signs can help you avoid becoming a victim of fraud while properly handling legitimate debt collection issues.
Introduction
Debt collection scams have become increasingly common across the United States, targeting consumers through phone calls, emails, text messages, and even mailed notices. Scammers often pose as legitimate collection agencies, using fear, urgency, and legal threats to pressure individuals into making immediate payments. These schemes can be highly convincing, especially when scammers possess partial personal information or reference debts that sound familiar.
The name “Harris and Harris” is frequently searched alongside scam-related terms because it is associated with a real, well-known debt collection company. Scammers often exploit recognizable company names to appear credible, leading consumers to question whether a call or notice is legitimate or fraudulent. As a result, even authentic communications from real agencies can become confusing, while fake collectors successfully deceive victims by borrowing trusted identities.
Verifying any debt collection contact is essential before responding or providing personal information. Legitimate debt collectors are required to follow strict federal laws and provide written validation of any alleged debt. Taking time to confirm the source of a collection attempt can protect consumers from financial loss, identity theft, and unnecessary stress, while ensuring that real obligations are handled safely and lawfully.
Who Is Harris & Harris?
Harris & Harris, Ltd. is a legitimate third-party debt collection agency based in Chicago, Illinois. The company has been in operation for decades and works on behalf of creditors to recover unpaid consumer debts. It is licensed to operate across the United States and is subject to federal and state debt collection laws.
The company typically becomes involved after an account has gone unpaid for a period of time and has been assigned or transferred by the original creditor. Harris & Harris does not usually create the debt itself; instead, it attempts to collect balances that already exist.
Overview of the Legitimate Company Harris & Harris, Ltd.
As a recognized collection agency, Harris & Harris works with a range of institutional clients. These commonly include healthcare providers, local or state government agencies, utility companies, and other service-based organizations. Their role is to contact consumers, provide account information, and arrange lawful repayment options where applicable.
When operating legitimately, the company follows established compliance procedures, including providing written notices and honoring consumer rights under federal regulations.
Types of Services They Are Known to Provide
Harris & Harris is primarily known for consumer debt collection services. This includes recovering overdue medical bills, unpaid utility accounts, and balances owed to government-related entities. The company also handles administrative functions such as account communication, payment processing, and record management related to collections.
Their work generally involves phone calls, mailed notices, and digital communications intended to inform consumers of outstanding balances and available resolution options.
Difference Between the Real Company and Impersonators
The key distinction between the real Harris & Harris and impersonators lies in how they communicate and request payment. A legitimate agency will provide clear identification, offer written debt validation, and allow consumers time to review and dispute a debt if necessary. They will not demand immediate payment without documentation or use threats of arrest or criminal charges.
Impersonators often misuse the Harris & Harris name to appear credible. These scammers may pressure individuals with urgent deadlines, request payment through unusual methods, or refuse to provide written proof of the debt. Understanding this difference is critical, as the company itself may be legitimate, while certain contacts claiming to represent it may not be.
Verifying any communication independently helps ensure that consumers are dealing with the real organization and not a fraudulent actor exploiting a known company name.
Customer Complaints Summary and Recent Example
Consumer complaints involving Harris & Harris, Ltd. continue to appear across BBB records, credit forums, and consumer protection discussions in 2026. Most complaints do not claim the company itself is fake, but instead focus on disputed debts, repeated collection calls, lack of documentation, aggressive communication tactics, and concerns about identity errors or impersonation scams.
According to Better Business Bureau records, Harris & Harris has received more than 1,000 complaints over the past three years, with hundreds closed during the last 12 months alone. Common issues include consumers claiming they were contacted about debts they do not recognize, requests for debt validation that allegedly went unanswered, and frustration over ongoing collection attempts while disputes were still active.
One recent 2026 BBB complaint involved a consumer who stated that Harris & Harris attempted to collect an alleged communications-related debt without providing sufficient verification documents after a formal validation request. The consumer claimed the company continued collection activity despite the dispute and requested removal of the account from their credit report. Harris & Harris responded by stating they had addressed the complaint and provided additional account-related information directly to the consumer.
Other complaints published through BBB records describe issues such as spoofed phone numbers, repeated robocalls, collection attempts for debts consumers say they never owed, and confusion regarding telecom, utility, or toll-related balances. Some consumers also alleged they were pressured into making immediate payments before receiving written verification.
At the same time, experts and consumer advocates continue to emphasize that Harris & Harris is a legitimate debt collection agency, even though scammers often impersonate the company through fake calls and phishing text messages. The Pennsylvania Turnpike, for example, confirmed in 2026 that Harris & Harris is one of its authorized collection partners, while also warning consumers about fraudulent toll-payment scams using deceptive text messages.
Because of these ongoing concerns, consumers are encouraged to request written debt validation, independently verify any alleged balance with the original creditor, and avoid making rushed payments until the debt has been confirmed as legitimate.
Is Harris and Harris a Legitimate Debt Collector?
Yes, Harris and Harris Limited is a legitimate debt collection agency that has been in operation since 1968. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, the company specializes in recovering various types of consumer debts, including unpaid healthcare bills, government-related debts, utility balances, and other financial obligations. They work on behalf of creditors to collect outstanding balances from consumers.
Harris and Harris is accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and holds an A+ rating, which indicates adherence to ethical business practices and responsiveness to consumer complaints. However, while a high BBB rating reflects the company’s compliance with certain standards, it does not necessarily mean all consumers have positive experiences. Many debt collection agencies, including Harris and Harris, receive complaints regarding aggressive collection tactics, communication issues, and disputes over debt validity.
If you are contacted by Harris and Harris regarding a debt, it is essential to verify the legitimacy of the claim before making any payments. Consumers have rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), which protects them from harassment and ensures they receive accurate information about their debts. If you believe the debt is incorrect or need more details, you can request a debt validation letter to confirm its legitimacy.
Contact information
Website —Harris and Harris
Phone number — 1-800-362-0097 (Toll-Free)
Address — 111 W Jackson Blvd Ste 400, Chicago, IL 60604
Why So Many Consumers Think It Might Be a Scam
In recent years, consumers have reported several issues involving calls and text messages supposedly tied to Harris & Harris. Common complaints include:
- Collection attempts for debts consumers do not recognize
- Aggressive phone calls
- Toll payment scams
- Suspicious payment links in text messages
- Incorrect personal information
- Repeated robocalls
BBB complaint records and consumer forums contain numerous examples of disputed debt claims and concerns over verification.
Some reports also describe scammers impersonating the company entirely. In multiple Reddit discussions, users claimed they received fake toll collection texts or debt threats that turned out to be fraudulent.
The Toll Text Scam Problem in 2026
One of the biggest scam trends connected to Harris & Harris in 2026 involves fake toll payment texts.
Scammers send messages claiming you owe unpaid toll fees and pressure you to click a payment link immediately. The message may mention Harris & Harris because the real company does collect overdue toll balances for certain agencies. That connection makes the scam appear believable.
Authorities have warned consumers about these “smishing” scams. The Pennsylvania Turnpike, for example, confirmed that while legitimate collection partners may contact customers regarding overdue balances, they do not request payments through suspicious links, Zelle, or Venmo.
Consumers have also reported fake messages tied to toll authorities and telecom providers such as T-Mobile.
Warning Signs the Contact Could Be a Scam
Here are some major red flags that should make you cautious:
They Demand Immediate Payment
One of the biggest warning signs of a potential scam is when the caller pressures you to make an immediate payment. Scammers frequently use fear tactics, including threats of lawsuits, arrest, wage garnishment, or serious credit damage, to push people into acting quickly without verifying the debt. While legitimate debt collectors may explain possible legal or financial consequences, aggressive threats designed to create panic are often a strong indication that the contact is fraudulent.
They Refuse to Validate the Debt
Legitimate debt collectors are required under U.S. law to provide validation information about the debt they claim you owe. If the caller refuses to explain who the original creditor is, how much money is allegedly owed, or when the account was opened, you should treat the situation with caution. A lack of clear documentation or refusal to provide written verification is a major red flag.
They Ask for Strange Payment Methods
Scammers commonly request payment through methods that are difficult to trace or reverse. If someone asks you to pay using gift cards, cryptocurrency, Zelle, Cash App, Venmo, or wire transfers, you should be extremely careful. Legitimate debt collection agencies typically accept standard payment methods such as checks, bank payments, or secure online portals tied to verified companies.
The Debt Makes No Sense
Another common warning sign is when the alleged debt seems completely unfamiliar. Many scam victims report being contacted about debts connected to states they have never visited, toll roads they never used, accounts they never opened, or services they never signed up for. If the details do not match your personal history, it is important to independently verify the claim before providing any information or payment.
Suspicious Links in Text Messages
Fraudulent debt collection attempts often arrive through text messages containing shortened, unusual, or suspicious-looking links. Clicking these links could expose your personal information or install harmful software on your device. Before responding, independently verify the company through official websites or phone numbers rather than using the contact information included in the message.
Harris and Harris Debt Collector BBB Reviews
Harris & Harris Ltd. is one of the larger debt collection agencies in the United States, and many consumers search for its Better Business Bureau profile before responding to collection notices or phone calls. On the Better Business Bureau website, the company currently holds an A+ accreditation rating, but customer reviews remain overwhelmingly negative.
According to BBB records, hundreds of complaints have been filed against Harris & Harris in recent years. Many complaints involve repeated collection calls, disputes over the accuracy of debts, and concerns about credit reporting. Some consumers claim they were contacted regarding debts they did not recognize, while others reported frustration when trying to obtain written verification of balances.
The BBB customer review score for the company is very low, with many reviewers giving only one star. Several consumers described stressful experiences involving aggressive communication tactics or difficulties resolving disputes. Others complained that paid accounts were not updated quickly on their credit reports.
Despite the negative reviews, the company does respond to many BBB complaints. In some cases, consumers reported that accounts were corrected, collection efforts were stopped, or credit reporting entries were updated after disputes were investigated. BBB accreditation also means the company has agreed to respond to complaints filed through the organization.
Experts generally recommend that consumers verify any debt before making payments. If Harris & Harris contacts you, it is important to request written validation of the debt, review your credit report carefully, and keep records of all communication. Consumers also have rights under the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, which protects against harassment and inaccurate collection practices.
Before paying any collection account, many consumers use BBB reviews and complaint histories to better understand the company’s reputation and customer experiences.
How to Verify If a Harris and Harris Call Is Real
Verifying whether a call claiming to be from Harris & Harris is legitimate requires calm, deliberate steps. The first priority is to confirm the debt independently rather than relying on information provided during the call. Do not share personal details or make any payment until the debt has been properly verified. Ask for written validation of the debt, which legitimate collectors are required to provide. This documentation should include the name of the original creditor, the amount owed, and instructions on how to dispute the debt if the information is incorrect.
Another important step is to contact the official Harris & Harris company directly using publicly listed contact information. Do not rely on phone numbers, email addresses, or links provided by the caller. Instead, look up the company’s official website or verified contact details and initiate communication yourself. When speaking with an official representative, ask them to confirm whether your account exists in their system and whether the previous contact was authorized.
Checking your credit reports is also a reliable way to verify the legitimacy of a collection claim. Most valid collection accounts appear on at least one major credit bureau report. Reviewing your credit history can help determine whether the debt is real, who originally owned it, and when it was reported. Keeping copies of all written notices, emails, and letters related to the alleged debt creates a paper trail that can be useful if you need to dispute inaccurate information or report suspicious activity.
What To Do If Harris & Harris Contacts You
If you receive a call or message, do not panic. Follow these steps instead:
Request Written Validation
Ask for a debt validation letter. This is your legal right under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). The letter should include:
- creditor name,
- account details,
- balance information,
- and dispute instructions.
Verify the Debt Independently
Contact the original creditor directly using official phone numbers from their website — not the number provided in the text message or voicemail.
Check Your Credit Reports
Look for unfamiliar collection accounts. If the debt does not belong to you, dispute it immediately with the credit bureaus.
Avoid Sharing Personal Information
Do not provide:
- Social Security numbers,
- banking details,
- debit card numbers,
- or passwords
until you verify the collector is legitimate.
Keep Records
Save:
- screenshots,
- voicemails,
- letters,
- and call logs.
These records can help if you need to dispute the debt or report fraud later.
How Do I Know if I’m Being Scammed?
Scammers often pose as legitimate debt collectors to trick people into paying money they don’t owe. They use high-pressure tactics, threats, and deceptive methods to create fear and urgency. Recognizing the warning signs can help you avoid falling victim to a scam.
Red Flags That Indicate a Scam
- Unsolicited Contact for an Unknown Debt
If you receive a call, text, or email about a debt you don’t recognize, be cautious. Scammers may claim you owe money to a creditor you’ve never done business with. Always verify the legitimacy of the debt before taking any action. Contact the original creditor directly using their official contact information. - Pressure to Pay Immediately
Scammers often try to rush you into making a payment by creating a sense of urgency. They may claim you’ll be sued, arrested, or have your wages garnished if you don’t pay immediately. A legitimate debt collector will not demand instant payment without providing you time to verify the debt. - Requests for Unusual Payment Methods
If you’re asked to pay using gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, or prepaid debit cards, it’s a major red flag. These payment methods are difficult to trace and cannot be reversed. Legitimate debt collectors will provide secure and traceable payment options. - Refusal to Provide Proof of Debt
Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), debt collectors must provide written verification of the debt if you request it. Scammers often avoid this step or send fake documents. If a caller refuses to send verification, do not make any payments. - Threats, Harassment, or Aggressive Behavior
Scammers frequently use intimidation tactics, such as threats of legal action, arrest, or damage to your credit score. They may also use abusive language to pressure you into paying. Legitimate debt collectors must follow legal guidelines and cannot harass or threaten you. - Caller ID Spoofing
Some scammers manipulate caller ID to make it appear as though they are calling from a trusted source, such as a government agency or well-known financial institution. Always verify a debt collector’s identity by looking up their official contact details and calling them directly.
What to Do If You Suspect a Scam
- Gather Information: Ask for the caller’s full name, company name, address, and phone number. A legitimate collector should have no problem providing this information.
- Request Written Validation: Ask for a written notice detailing the debt. A real collector is required to send this within five days of initial contact.
- Verify the Debt: If you are unsure about the debt, contact the original creditor directly using their official website or customer service number.
- Do Not Share Personal Information: Avoid giving out sensitive details, such as your Social Security number, bank account information, or credit card details, to unknown callers.
- Report the Scam: If you believe you’re being scammed, report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), or your state’s attorney general’s office.
Stay Vigilant and Protect Yourself
Debt collection scams can be stressful and intimidating, but by staying informed and cautious, you can protect yourself. Always take the time to verify any debt claim, never rush into making a payment, and report suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities.ection scams.
Should You Be Wary of Harris and Harris?
While Harris and Harris is a legitimate company, there are reasons to be cautious, particularly regarding their collection practices. Here’s a closer look at some red flags:
- Harris and Harris Reviews and Complaints: The BBB profile for Harris and Harris Limited reveals a concerning pattern. Despite the A+ rating, the agency has received numerous complaints over the past three years. Many consumers report issues with:
- Aggressive collection tactics: These include excessive phone calls, even outside permitted hours, and using threatening or harassing language.
- Inaccurate debt information: Some complain about being contacted for debts they don’t recognize or believe they don’t owe.
- Difficulties communicating with representatives: Getting a hold of a helpful representative and resolving issues can be challenging.
Who Does Harris and Harris Collect For (312-460-3948)?
The phone number (312-460-3948) is likely associated with Harris and Harris Limited, a well-known debt collection agency headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. They collect debts on behalf of various creditors across multiple industries. If you receive a call from this number, it may be regarding an outstanding balance owed to one of their clients.
Harris and Harris primarily collect for:
- Healthcare Providers – Many hospitals, medical clinics, and healthcare facilities use Harris and Harris to recover unpaid medical bills from patients. These debts may include doctor visits, emergency room charges, diagnostic tests, and other healthcare-related expenses.
- Utility Companies – The agency works with gas, electricity, water, and telecommunications companies to collect overdue bills from residential and commercial customers.
- Government Agencies – Harris and Harris frequently partners with local, state, and federal government agencies to recover unpaid taxes, parking tickets, toll violations, court fees, and other government-related debts.
- Credit Card Companies (Less Common) – While not their primary focus, they may also collect outstanding balances on behalf of credit card companies, banks, or financial institutions.
If you receive a call from Harris and Harris, it’s crucial to verify the debt before making any payments. You have the right to request a debt validation letter under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) to confirm the accuracy of the debt. If you believe the debt is incorrect or have concerns about their collection practices, you can dispute the claim or seek legal advice. Always be cautious before sharing personal information or making payments over the phone.
Why Is Harris and Harris Calling You?
If you’ve been receiving phone calls, letters, or voicemails from Harris & Harris, Ltd., you’re not alone. This Chicago-based debt collection agency frequently contacts individuals across the United States on behalf of various clients. There are several possible reasons why Harris & Harris might be calling you:
1. You Owe a Legitimate Debt
The most common reason for receiving a call from Harris & Harris is that you may owe a legitimate outstanding debt. The agency collects debts on behalf of multiple industries, including:
- Healthcare providers and hospitals (for unpaid medical bills)
- Utility companies (electric, gas, water, or internet services)
- Government agencies and municipalities (for unpaid fines, tolls, or fees)
- Transportation authorities (such as parking violations or toll violations)
If you’ve recently visited a hospital, used a public service, or have an unpaid bill, the call may relate to that specific account.
2. The Debt Belongs to Someone Else
In some cases, Harris & Harris may have the wrong contact information. Debt collectors often purchase large portfolios of debt, and records can contain errors such as:
- Mistyped or outdated phone numbers
- Debts belonging to a previous owner of your phone number
- Accounts assigned to a person with a similar name
If you believe the debt isn’t yours, you have the right to request written validation of the debt under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). You should never make payments or provide personal information until you confirm the debt is valid and belongs to you.
3. The Debt Has Already Been Paid or Settled
It’s possible that you’ve already resolved the account with the original creditor or another collection agency, but Harris & Harris is still trying to collect due to delayed record updates. If you have proof of payment (such as receipts or settlement letters), you can submit documentation to have your account corrected and collection efforts stopped.
4. They Are Attempting to Locate Someone
Sometimes, debt collectors call to track down another person—a process known as “skip tracing.” If you share a last name, address, or phone number with someone who owes a debt, Harris & Harris may be trying to reach that individual.
By law, they may only contact you once to seek information and cannot discuss any debt details with you if you are not the debtor.
5. They Are Violating Collection Laws
Unfortunately, some consumers report repeated or aggressive calls from Harris & Harris that may cross the line into harassment. The FDCPA protects consumers from:
- Excessive or repetitive phone calls
- Calls made before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m.
- Use of threatening, abusive, or profane language
- Contacting your workplace after being asked not to
- Failing to validate the debt upon request
If you’re experiencing any of these behaviors, you may send a cease-and-desist letter to demand that the company stop contacting you. Continued harassment after such notice could form the basis of a legal claim under the FDCPA.
How to Deal with Harris and Harris
If you’re contacted by Harris and Harris, here’s how to handle the situation:
- Verify the Debt: Don’t admit owing the debt or agree to any payment plan until you understand the details. Ask for written verification of the debt, including the original creditor, amount owed, and breakdown of charges.
- Know Your Rights: The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) protects consumers from abusive collection practices. Learn about your rights under the FDCPA at the Federal Trade Commission website.
- Communicate in Writing: Request all communication from Harris and Harris to be done in writing via mail. This creates a paper trail and protects you from potential miscommunication.
- Dispute the Debt (if applicable): If you believe the debt is inaccurate, file a dispute letter within 30 days of receiving the debt validation notice.
- Negotiate a Payment Plan (if applicable): Once you’ve verified the debt, consider negotiating a payment plan that fits your budget.
If You’re Being Harassed by Harris and Harris
Debt collectors, including Harris and Harris, are required to follow strict guidelines under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). This law prohibits them from using abusive, deceptive, or harassing tactics to collect debts. If Harris and Harris is engaging in harassing behavior—such as making excessive phone calls, using threatening language, or employing abusive tactics—you have the right to take action.
Examples of harassment may include:
- Calling you repeatedly throughout the day or at unreasonable hours.
- Threatening legal action they cannot take or using intimidating language.
- Using profane or offensive language.
- Contacting you after you’ve requested they stop in writing.
- Failing to provide proper validation of the debt.
If you believe Harris and Harris is violating these rules, you can report them to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at https://www.ftc.gov. The FTC enforces consumer protection laws and investigates complaints about unfair or deceptive practices. You can also file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) at https://www.consumerfinance.gov, which oversees debt collection practices.
Additionally, you may consider sending a cease-and-desist letter to Harris and Harris, demanding they stop contacting you. If the harassment continues, you could have grounds to sue the agency for violating the FDCPA. Document all interactions, including dates, times, and details of conversations, as this evidence can support your case. Remember, you have rights as a consumer, and no one should be subjected to harassment over debt collection.
Example of a Cease-and-Desist Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
Date: [Insert Date]
Harris & Harris, Ltd.
111 W Jackson Blvd, Suite 400
Chicago, IL 60604
Re: Cease and Desist Request – Harassment and FDCPA Violation
To Whom It May Concern:
I am writing to formally demand that Harris & Harris, Ltd. immediately cease and desist from any further contact with me regarding any alleged debt. Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), 15 U.S.C. § 1692c(c), I have the legal right to request that a debt collector stop contacting me.
Your repeated calls, letters, and/or other forms of communication have become harassing and unwelcome. I am requesting that you cease all direct contact with me immediately, including but not limited to telephone calls, text messages, emails, letters, or any other form of communication.
Please be advised that any further contact from your agency, except as permitted by law (such as confirming that collection efforts have ceased or that legal action will be taken), will be considered a violation of federal law and may result in legal action against your company.
If you believe I owe a valid debt, please provide written proof of the debt, including the original creditor’s name, account number, and verification of the balance claimed. Otherwise, remove my contact information from your system and refrain from any further attempts to communicate with me.
I am keeping detailed records of all communications and will not hesitate to report violations to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), and my state’s Attorney General’s Office.
Thank you for your immediate attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]
(Note: This is a general sample for informational purposes only. You may wish to consult an attorney for legal advice specific to your situation.)
Exploring Alternatives and Finding Help
- Debt Consolidation: Consider consolidating your debts into a single loan with a lower interest rate. This can simplify your payments and potentially save you money. However, explore all options carefully and avoid predatory lending practices.
- Credit Counseling: Non-profit credit counseling agencies can provide free or low-cost financial advice and help you develop a debt management plan. The National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) is a great resource to find a reputable agency:
- Debt Settlement: Debt settlement companies negotiate with creditors to reduce your outstanding debt for a lump sum payment. While this might seem appealing, it can have negative consequences for your credit score. Thoroughly research this option before proceeding.
Additional Resources
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
- Your State Attorney General’s Office: Many state attorney general offices have resources and consumer protection divisions that can assist with debt collection issues.
Conclusion
Harris and Harris Limited is a legitimate debt collection agency. However, numerous consumer complaints raise concerns about their collection practices. If you’re contacted by Harris and Harris, remain calm, understand your rights, and don’t hesitate to seek help from reputable resources. Remember, you have options when dealing with debt, and you don’t have to navigate this process alone.
FAQS
Q: Is Harris & Harris a legitimate debt collector?
A: Yes, Harris & Harris is a legitimate debt collection agency. They specialize in consumer debts, particularly in the healthcare, government, and utility sectors.
Q: Why am I getting texts from Harris & Harris?
A: You may be receiving texts from Harris & Harris because they are attempting to collect a debt you owe. Alternatively, they might be contacting you in error.
Q: What happens if you ignore a debt collector?
A: Ignoring a debt collector can lead to further collection efforts, potential legal action, and damage to your credit score if the debt remains unpaid.
Q: Are debt collector phone calls real?
A: While many debt collector calls are legitimate, scammers can impersonate real agencies. It’s important to verify the caller’s identity and the legitimacy of the debt to ensure it’s not a scam.