How To Deal With DCM Services Debt Collection Attempts
DCM Services specializes in collecting debts from deceased people's estates by contacting relatives and personal representatives. You are not automatically responsible for a loved one's debt unless you are a co-signer, joint account holder, personal representative, or spouse in certain states. Always validate the debt first and consider getting legal help, as estate debt laws vary significantly by state and debt type.
Answer Your LawsuitDCM Services is a third-party debt collection agency based in Bloomington, Minnesota. They focus on estate debt collection.
The company contacts relatives of deceased people to collect unpaid bills. They primarily buy debt from healthcare companies, retailers, telecommunications firms, and auto loan lenders.
Sued by DCM Services? Get Help Responding Now
If DCM Services filed a lawsuit against you, you must respond to the summons. Our partner Solo has helped over 320,000 people draft winning answers to debt collection lawsuits.
Draft Your AnswerDCM Services uses technology called Probate Finder OnDemand. The tool helps them locate probated estates and dates of death. They use this data to identify personal representatives of estates.
Why Is DCM Services Contacting You?
You likely had a family member pass away recently. DCM Services reaches out initially to find the estate’s personal representative.
According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), certain rules apply. If you are not the surviving spouse, parent of a deceased minor, or personal representative, DCM Services may only contact you once. They can only ask about a personal representative. They cannot legally mention the debt.
You do not have to give them any information.
If you are the surviving spouse, parent of a deceased minor, or personal representative, they may mention the debt. You are not necessarily obligated to pay it from your own money.
Many people get legal advice in these situations. Speaking with a bankruptcy attorney for free can help you understand your options.
Is DCM Services a Legitimate Company?
Yes, DCM Services is legitimate. They have been operating since 2006.
They are accredited with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). They currently hold an A+ rating. Consumers have filed 29 BBB complaints against them in the last three years.
Common Consumer Complaints About DCM Services
BBB reviews describe these tactics from DCM Services:
- Repeatedly calling and sending multiple letters
- Trying to collect on debts that do not exist
- Trying to collect on debts already paid by insurance
The Fair Debt Collections Practices Act (FDCPA) protects you from abusive behavior. If you receive repeated calls, ask them to stop calling. Request all communication via mail instead.
Make copies of every letter you send. You have the right to report bad behavior to the CFPB.
Scammers may use DCM Services’ name to steal money. If something feels wrong, ask for more details before sharing information.
Do You Have To Pay DCM Services?
You should not assume you have to pay. You might be responsible for paying your loved one’s debts only in certain situations:
- You are a co-signer on a loan with outstanding debt
- You are a joint account holder on a credit card
- You are the personal representative of the estate
- You are the spouse of the deceased (this varies by state)
If you are the surviving spouse or oversee the estate, DCM Services cannot suggest you pay from your own money. That would be illegal.
If you are the personal representative, you may need to settle the debt. You should do so using estate assets only. Make payments to survivors first.
State laws vary on this process. Seek legal guidance to navigate properly.
Validate the Debt First
Before doing anything else, validate the debt. Validating helps you figure out:
- If you actually owe the debt on behalf of your loved one
- That DCM Services owns the debt
- The amount is correct
If they prove the debt is your responsibility, you must decide what to do next.
How To Send a Debt Verification Letter
Get the details of DCM’s claim in writing. Ideally, DCM Services already sent you a debt validation letter.
The document offers details about the debt you owe. They must send one before contacting you or within five days of contact.
If you have not received one, send your own letter to verify the debt details.
Once you receive a validation letter, you get a 30-day window. During that time, you can dispute the debt. The debt collector may not contact you or continue collection actions.
If they cannot verify the debt within that period, you should not have to pay it.
If DCM Services verifies the debt, you have the right to dispute it. At this point, bring in legal help.
Check Your Credit Report
Check your credit report when any debt collection agency contacts you. Make sure everything looks accurate and report any errors.
Details of debts are often incorrect on credit reports. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) gives you the right to dispute errors. You can do so with a credit dispute letter.
What Happens If You Ignore DCM Services?
If you are related to the deceased but not the spouse, personal representative, or joint account holder, you can safely ignore them. You can also request in writing that they stop contacting you.
If you are the spouse, personal representative, or joint account holder, ignoring them is risky. Being contacted during grief feels like extra stress. Ignoring them is tempting.
Addressing the situation is usually in your best interest.
Negative Consequences of Ignoring DCM Services
If you ignore them but are liable for the debt, negative consequences could include:
- Hurting your credit score
- Owing more money due to interest and fees
- Possibly being sued
- Living with stress from unresolved financial issues
Dealing with debt collectors while grieving is hard. Depending on circumstances and your state, it might be unavoidable. Get the debt details, do your research, and ask for legal guidance if you feel stuck.
Can DCM Services Sue You?
DCM Services could sue you. However, it is less likely compared to other debt collection agencies.
Estate debt is a legally gray area. Laws regarding repayment vary by state and debt type. Medical bills and car loans follow different rules.
If you get sued, you will receive official court papers. You will get a summons and complaint. These are often served in person or left with someone at your home.
If you receive a lawsuit, you must respond. Our partner Solo can help you draft an answer letter. They have helped over 320,000 people respond to debt lawsuits.
Your Rights When Dealing With Estate Debt
You have important rights when debt collectors contact you about estate debt. Know these protections:
- DCM Services can only contact non-representatives once
- They cannot pressure you to pay from your own money
- You have 30 days to dispute after receiving validation
- You can request all communication in writing
- You can report FDCPA violations to the CFPB
Estate debts can be complex. State laws differ significantly. Professional legal help can protect your rights and financial future.