Have you received a call or letter from Wakefield and Associates (also known as Wakefield & Associates or Wakeassoc)? If you’re wondering, “Who does Wakefield and Associates collect for?” you’re not alone. This blog post will delve into the world of Wakefield and Associates, their debt collection practices, and who they typically collect debts from.
Who Do Wakefield and Associates Typically Collect For?
Wakefield and Associates is a debt collection agency specializing in healthcare debt. They primarily collect past-due medical bills on behalf of:
- Hospitals: Major and regional hospitals often outsource their debt collection to companies like Wakefield and Associates.
- Clinics: Medical clinics, including urgent care centers and specialist clinics, may utilize Wakefield’s services to recoup unpaid bills.
- Physician Groups: Groups of doctors practicing together can partner with Wakefield to manage overdue patient bills.
- Other Healthcare Providers: Laboratories, diagnostic centers, and emergency medical groups might also utilize Wakefield’s collection services.
In some cases, Wakefield and Associates may also:
- Purchase Delinquent Medical Debt: They might buy unpaid medical bills from healthcare providers at a discounted rate and then attempt to collect the full amount from the debtor.
Signs You’re Dealing with Wakefield and Associates
If you’ve been contacted by Wakefield and Associates, here are some signs to confirm their identity:
- Company Name: You may receive a call or letter with the company name “Wakefield and Associates,” “Wakefield & Associates,” or “Wakeassoc.”
- Contact Information: Their phone number might be listed as 800-586-0286 or 800-586-0286 (written as one continuous number).
- Debt Type: The communication will likely mention a past-due medical bill and the original healthcare provider.
Understanding Your Rights When Dealing with Wakefield and Associates
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) protects consumers from abusive debt collection practices. Here are some key points to remember:
- Communication: Wakefield and Associates can only contact you by phone, mail, or in person. They cannot harass you or contact you at unreasonable times (before 8:00 AM or after 9:00 PM).
- Validation of Debt: You have the right to request written verification of the debt, including the original creditor, amount owed, and breakdown of charges.
- Dispute Resolution: If you believe the debt is incorrect, you can dispute it with Wakefield and Associates in writing. They are obligated to investigate your claim.
- Payment Options: You have the right to discuss payment options with Wakefield and Associates. These may include a payment plan, settlement, or disputing the debt entirely.
Tips for Dealing with Wakefield and Associates
If you’re contacted by Wakefield and Associates (800-586-0286 or 8005860286), here are some tips for navigating the situation:
- Request Verification: Don’t admit to the debt or make any payments before receiving written verification of the debt.
- Understand Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with your rights under the FDCPA. You can find resources from the Federal Trade Commission (https://www.ftc.gov/)
- Communicate Clearly: If you plan to dispute the debt or negotiate a payment plan, do so in writing. Keep copies of all communication for your records.
- Consider Seeking Help: If you’re overwhelmed by debt collection, consider seeking guidance from a credit counselor or an attorney specializing in debt collection issues.
Beyond Medical Debt: A Note on Wakefield and Associates’ Practices
There have been some reports that Wakefield and Associates may occasionally collect on debts outside the healthcare sector. However, their primary focus appears to be on medical debt collection.
Conclusion
By understanding who Wakefield and Associates collect for and their practices, you can be better prepared to handle any communication you receive from them. Remember, you have rights under the FDCPA, and you should not be pressured into making payments you cannot afford. If you’re unsure of how to proceed, consider seeking professional advice.
Additional Resources:
- Federal Trade Commission – Consumer Information on Debt Collection (https://www.ftc.gov/legal-library/browse/rules/fair-debt-collection-practices-act-text)
- Upsolve – How To Win Against Wakefield AND Associates (https://upsolve.org/learn/how-to-beat-wakefield-and-associates/)
Frequently Asked Questions on Various Online Platforms Like Google, Quora, Reddit and others
Q: What happens if you don’t pay Wakefield and Associates?
A: If you ignore Wakefield and Associates and don’t pay the debt they are attempting to collect, there can be several negative consequences:
The debt amount may increase due to additional interest, fees, and legal costs.
Your credit score could be negatively impacted.
Wakefield and Associates may file a lawsuit against you, which could lead to wage garnishments or property liens if they obtain a judgment.
The debt will not simply go away, and collection efforts can continue for years until the statute of limitations expires, which varies by state.
Q: Is Wakefield and Associates a legit debt collector?
A: Yes, Wakefield and Associates is a legitimate and well-established debt collection agency that has been in operation since 1946. They are headquartered in Aurora, Colorado, and have additional offices in several other states. The company is accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and has a B+ rating, indicating a commitment to ethical business practices.
Q: How do I get rid of Wakefield and Associates?
A: To remove Wakefield and Associates from your credit report, you should take the following steps:
Obtain a copy of your credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion).
Scrutinize the reports for any inaccuracies or errors related to the debt being collected by Wakefield and Associates.
If you find an error, dispute it with the relevant credit bureau, which will investigate and remove inaccurate information from your report.
You can also try negotiating a “pay-for-delete” agreement with Wakefield and Associates, where you pay off the debt in exchange for them removing it from your credit report. However, not all debt collectors agree to this.
Q: How do I find out what company sent me to collections with Wakefield and Associates?
A: When Wakefield and Associates contacts you about a debt, they are legally required to provide you with a debt validation letter within five days. This letter should include information about the original creditor who sent the debt to collections. If you haven’t received this letter, you can send Wakefield and Associates a debt verification letter requesting this information.
Knowing the original creditor can help you understand the source of the debt and potentially dispute it if necessary.