Navigating Debt Recovery with Intrum: Your Rights and Strategies in 2026
Receiving a communication from a debt recovery company like Intrum can be unsettling. Yet, understanding your rights and available strategies is crucial. While Intrum aims to recover outstanding debts, the law provides significant protections for debtors. This article explores your options when facing Intrum’s demands, focusing on the legal framework and practical steps you can take.
Understanding Intrum’s Role
Intrum specializes in acquiring debts from original creditors – banks, telecom companies, energy providers, and others. They then pursue the recovery of these debts, often adding their own fees. It’s important to remember that Intrum doesn’t create the debt; they purchase it. This distinction is key to understanding your rights.
Do You Have to Pay Immediately?
No. You are not legally obligated to pay Intrum simply because they send a demand letter. The debt must first be legally proven. Many individuals pay out of fear, even if the debt is questionable, prescribed, or contains inaccurate charges. The law protects you from such situations.
Key Strategies for Dealing with Intrum
1. Verify the Debt and Request Proof
Demand detailed documentation of the debt. This includes a copy of the original contract, proof of the debt’s transfer to Intrum (cession de créance), and a clear breakdown of all charges. Without this documentation, Intrum’s claim is weakened.
2. Check for Prescription
Debts have a statute of limitations. For consumer credit and service invoices, this period is typically two years. If the debt is older than this, We see legally considered prescribed, and you are no longer obligated to pay. However, be aware that making a partial payment or acknowledging the debt can restart the prescription clock.
3. Dispute Added Fees
In the initial stages of debt recovery, you are generally only liable for the principal debt amount. Intrum may add fees for their services, but these are often contestable. Focus on paying only the original amount owed.
4. Communicate in Writing
Avoid phone conversations with Intrum. Maintain a written record of all communication. Leverage registered mail with acknowledgment of receipt (RAR) to ensure proof of delivery. This documentation is vital if legal action becomes necessary.
5. Understand Intrum’s Limitations
Without a court judgment, Intrum cannot seize your assets or garnish your wages. Their letters are simply requests for payment and do not carry legal weight. They cannot legally compel you to pay without pursuing legal action, and even then, they must prove the debt’s validity in court.
Negotiating with Intrum
While you are not obligated to pay immediately, negotiating a payment plan can be a sensible approach, especially if you acknowledge the debt and wish to avoid potential legal proceedings. Consider proposing an affordable installment plan that fits your budget.
What Happens if You Ignore Intrum?
Ignoring Intrum’s demands doesn’t make the debt disappear. They may eventually pursue legal action. However, if the debt is prescribed or lacks proper documentation, their case is likely to fail. Ignoring them *without* taking the steps to verify and contest the debt is risky.
The Role of the DGCCRF
The French General Directorate for Competition, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control (DGCCRF) has previously sanctioned Intrum Justitia for abusive practices, including harassing phone calls and excessive fees. This demonstrates a regulatory awareness of potential issues with debt recovery tactics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can Intrum send debt collectors to my home?
A: While they can send letters, Intrum cannot legally enter your property without a court order.
Q: What is the FICP?
A: The FICP (Fichier des Incidents de remboursement des Crédits aux Particuliers) is a credit bureau that lists individuals with payment difficulties. Non-payment to Intrum could lead to inclusion in this file, potentially impacting your ability to obtain credit in the future.
Q: Should I seek legal advice?
A: If you are unsure about your rights or facing legal action, consulting with a legal professional is highly recommended.
Q: What if I believe the debt isn’t mine?
A: Immediately request full documentation and dispute the debt in writing. Provide any evidence you have to support your claim.
Did you know? You have the right to request Intrum cease all communication with you in writing.
Pro Tip: Keep all correspondence with Intrum organized in a dedicated file, both physical and digital.
Facing debt recovery can be stressful, but knowledge is power. By understanding your rights and taking proactive steps, you can navigate the process effectively and protect your financial well-being. Explore additional resources on consumer rights and debt management to further empower yourself.
