How does one handle getting calls when it's not one's debt?

I used to work for a credit card company as a debt collector. If this isn't your debt - meaning your name is nowhere on his loan, just tell whomever calls you next time and they SHOULD stop calling. You can tell them the details if you want to, but you don't have to. Seeing that you are not the one who owes the money, all they will do is note your son's account. If your son is living with you, that is why they are calling your number. Tell them he moved and to stop calling your number. Just act like you don't know him. haha. I do suggest that your son call them and let his debtor know them know his situation, they may have a way of helping him out as far as payment plans, etc if he is far enough behind on his payments. It's sad, but it seems like the further you get behind on payments (and thus the more messed up your credit gets) the better "deals" they are willing to offer. Hope this helps. :)

Thanks. We have tried to explain to then that this isn't our debt, but they continue to call. I'll try again.

they are never going to stop! TRUST me it will not end they dont care about your story nor will they beleive you when you say it isnt yours. I WAS HARRASSED all day long by GMAC mortgage trying to reach the freaken LOKEYS! I am not a lokey I am a Denroc! This has not been the LOKEYS number for a year!

You will need to write a letter demanding they stop contacting you period. Send it registered mail.

If they contact you after this you can sue them.

even when they say your number is removed they are lieing! FYI.

good luck

Wow, thanks for that info. I wonder if a sample letter is on this site? I'll look around.

Wow, thanks! I wonder if a sample letter for that is on this site? I'll look around.

i will find my sample and post it when i get home my phone is about to die. no worries they are everywhere on the net too

I have had collection calls left on my answering machine for a totally different person, telling me to disconnect if it wasn't them. Naturally, I didn't, and called the number and tore them a new one, telling them about FDCPA and how this other person's rights were violated, because now I know that they have a debt.
The next time this happens, I would also tell them that, saying that now your son is rich, because THEY disclosed his debt!

Here's a sample letter from privacyrights.org:

Date

Your Name
Mailing Address
Your City, State, Zip

Re: Notice to Cease Contact Regarding Debt for ______________________

Name of Collection Agency
Mailing Address
City, State, Zip

VIA CERTIFIED MAIL

I am notifying you in writing that your agency has contacted me regarding a debt for [name of person who collector is contacting you about]. No one by that name lives at my address or phone number.

Therefore, I am requesting that you cease all communication to my phone number regarding this person's debt. If you persist in believing that [name of person] is somehow connected with my address and/or phone number, please provide proof of your claim.

You should direct all future correspondence in writing as outlined in the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) and to cease all communication with me by telephone.

Lastly, I would like to receive confirmation in writing that you have received this letter and will no longer be contacting me about this other person's debt, or I will be forced to seek further legal action.

I look forward to your acknowledgement that you have received this notice by [date that is two weeks from date of letter].


Sincerely,

_______________
(Signature)

Nothing says "stop calling me" better than a collector being sued for $500 per phone call for violating Federal Telephone Consumer Protection Act.