When a debt is passed to a DCA, one of two things has happened: the account has been assigned (sold outright to the DCA) or placed for collection (still owned by the original creditor). The letter should tell you which, and it changes who you can complain to.
DCAs must follow FCA rules on debt collection: no misleading letters, no excessive contact, and taking vulnerability into account. If a DCA has broken those rules, you can complain to them and escalate to the Financial Ombudsman.
DCAs will often accept less than the full balance to close a debt (a 'full and final settlement'), especially where the debt is old, disputed or has been discounted when purchased. Free debt help can negotiate on your behalf without any fee.
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