Business Profile

Collections Agencies

Financial Assistance Inc

This business is NOT BBB Accredited.

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Complaints

Customer Complaints Summary

47 total complaints in the last 3 years.
8 complaints closed in the last 12 months.

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The complaint text that is displayed might not represent all complaints filed with BBB. Some consumers may elect to not publish the details of their complaints, some complaints may not meet BBB's standards for publication, or BBB may display a portion of complaints when a high volume is received for a particular business.

Initial Complaint
Date:04/18/2025
Type:Customer Service Issues
Status:
AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
Resolved:
The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
Unresolved:
The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
Answered:
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
Unanswered:
The business failed to respond to the dispute.
Unpursuable:
BBB is unable to locate the business.
I have never heard or done any business with this company and did not entered into any contracts with them. Therefore, I am not liable for this debt with Financial Assistance. They have not provide any evidence of any kinds showing my obligation to this debt.
Customer Answer
Date: 04/21/2025
1) AUTHORIZATION FOR RELEASE OF INFORMATION TO THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU

I, Jae Hong, expressly authorize Financial Assistance Inc to communicate directly with BBB on all matters relating to the items as specific in the complaint form and including any debts I am alleged to owe.

I have filed a complaint with BBB and authorize BBB to release the complaint form and all supporting documents to Financial Assistance Inc.

I acknowledge without this authorization, Financial Assistance Inc would not be authorized to discuss these matters with BBB and any of its employees or representatives. I expressly waive that restriction for all purposes relating to the complaint I filed with BBB.

Insert Your Name Here: *** Hong Date: 4__/_21_/___2025_

2) Here is the information BBB requested regarding my complaint:
- I requested the verification of the debt from Financial Assistance Inc on _3_/_1_/_2025__ by Select one -> Email, Phone, Mail, or Other (Please specify)_____mail____________
  
  *****
- The reason why I believe the alleged debt is NOT valid is: I did not entered any contracts with this company of any kinds and they have failed to provide any evidence validating alleged debt tied to my name. I would like them to be removed from my Equifax credit report.
  
  *****
- The account number: ******* and *******
  *****
******* Please do NOT click 'Proceed' until you have signed and dated your agreement for release of information in Section 1 and provided the requested information in section 2. *******
Business Response
Date: 04/28/2025
April 28, 2025 BBB Complaint #******** FAI: J290794 & J298717

Financial Assistance****** (***) is a licensed collection agency contracted by ***************************** (****) to collect past due accounts. The accounts that **** places with *** for collection are assigned, not sold to FAI. All accounts remain the property of MACU.

The subject of this complaint is an overdrawn Share (checking/saving) account with an outstanding principal balance of $9491.12 and an unpaid **** credit card account with an unpaid principal balance of ********* accruing interest at a rate of 9.40%. These accounts were assigned for recovery purposes in January of 2024. They were originally credit reported on or about March 16, 2024 and April 16, 2024, respectively.

The consumer states in this complaint that he made a request via mail for validation of these debts on March 1, 2025. *** has received no such letter from this consumer. Upon receipt of this complaint, *** has secured debt validation from our client. Attached validation includes the share account application, the credit card account application, a transaction history demonstrating use and samples of personal deposit checks from this consumer.

*** believes that we are acting in accordance with the governing laws and regulations. *** encourages this consumer to contact our office during Pacific Time Zone business hours to proactively resolve this matter. ************.
Initial Complaint
Date:04/03/2025
Type:Billing Issues
Status:
AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
Resolved:
The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
Unresolved:
The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
Answered:
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
Unanswered:
The business failed to respond to the dispute.
Unpursuable:
BBB is unable to locate the business.
A student loan collection debt that has been paid in full to this agency, a paid in full letter was received 3 years ago, is now reporting again as in default on my student aid portal. I have reason to believe this business is attempting to try and hold me accountable for more monies than was agreed upon (AGAIN). I will provide the paid in full letter but only directly to BBB personnel, not a drop down. Thank you!
Customer Answer
Date: 04/04/2025
1) AUTHORIZATION FOR RELEASE OF INFORMATION TO THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU

I, Chelsea Cook, expressly authorize Financial Assistance Inc to communicate directly with BBB on all matters relating to the items as specific in the complaint form and including any debts I am alleged to owe.

I have filed a complaint with BBB and authorize BBB to release the complaint form and all supporting documents to Financial Assistance Inc.

I acknowledge without this authorization, Financial Assistance Inc would not be authorized to discuss these matters with BBB and any of its employees or representatives. I expressly waive that restriction for all purposes relating to the complaint I filed with BBB.

Insert Your Name Here: ******* **** Date: 04/04/2024

2) Here is the information BBB requested regarding my complaint:
- I requested the verification of the debt from Financial Assistance Inc on __/__/___ by Select one -> Email, Phone, Mail, or Other (Please specify): The debt is paid off as of 6/30/2022
  
  *****
- The reason why I believe the alleged debt is NOT valid is: it was paid in full and a balance still showing and the student aid website has my loan showing as in default
  
  *****
- The account number: ********** / **** or creditor acct number: *******
  *****
******* Please do NOT click 'Proceed' until you have signed and dated your agreement for release of information in Section 1 and provided the requested information in section 2. *******
Business Response
Date: 04/10/2025
********************************* assigned an account to **********************, **** on October 20, 2014. Account was reduced to judgment on December 4, 2018, Pierce County District Court Case No. 790525. Account paid in full June 30, 2022 and a Satisfaction of Judgment, copy attached, was filed July 21, 2022. We have remitted payment to Saint ******** and removed our report to the credit bureaus. *** does not report credit collections to any other entities and has not done any collection work on this file since June 2022.
Initial Complaint
Date:09/09/2024
Type:Service or Repair Issues
Status:
AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
Resolved:
The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
Unresolved:
The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
Answered:
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
Unanswered:
The business failed to respond to the dispute.
Unpursuable:
BBB is unable to locate the business.
Saturday, 7 September 2024, I received copy of judgement against husband and I, dated 2 July 2015, from this company. It has been 9.5 years and during this time we have never heard of this. It would have appeared we should have known about this or even had a chance to dispute it, in all this long time. We want to see original signed contract for this debt. They have jumped from ******* owing to over ******* owing to them for interest. This is outrageous. It appear there was a reason they waited so long to inform us of this judgement, money. Why did they wait all these years to inform us of this. We do not owe this. Was never on either of our credit reports.
Customer Answer
Date: 09/09/2024
1) AUTHORIZATION FOR RELEASE OF INFORMATION TO THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU

I, Cassandra *******, expressly authorize Financial Assistance Inc to communicate directly with BBB on all matters relating to the items as specific in the complaint form and including any debts I am alleged to owe.

I have filed a complaint with BBB and authorize BBB to release the complaint form and all supporting documents to Financial Assistance Inc.

I acknowledge without this authorization, Financial Assistance Inc would not be authorized to discuss these matters with BBB and any of its employees or representatives. I expressly waive that restriction for all purposes relating to the complaint I filed with BBB.

Insert Your Name Here:___cassandra chisolm________________________________ Date: __09092024/__/____

2) Here is the information BBB requested regarding my complaint:
- I requested the verification of the debt from Financial Assistance Inc on _09092024_/__/___ by Select one -> Email, Phone, Mail, or Other (Please specify)_________________
  
  *****
- The reason why I believe the alleged debt is NOT valid is:___was not given consumer process in disputing. Had no idea about this matter went into judgement. Was sent copt almost 10 years later._______________________________________________________________________________________________
  
  *****
- The account **********************-7________________
  *****
******* Please do NOT click 'Proceed' until you have signed and dated your agreement for release of information in Section 1 and provided the requested information in section 2. *******
Business Response
Date: 09/17/2024
September 17, 2024               BBB Complaint #********                 FAI: H957600

Financial Assistance, **** (***) is a licensed collection agency contracted by ********************* (***) to collect past due accounts. The accounts that *** places with *** for collection are assigned, not sold to FAI. All accounts remain the property of ****
The subject of this complaint is an overdrawn share (checking/saving) account. This account was opened October 22, 1997, with a date of default of October 26, 2011. The account was assigned to *** for recovery efforts on April 29, 2012. *** credit reported this debt on or about July 16, 2012, as a normal course of business.
In this complaint, the consumer claims that she should have known about this and should have had a chance to dispute it.
*** sent our original Notice of Assignment Letter at the time of assignment on April 29, 2012, to the consumers address contained in this complaint. This letter invites the consumer to contact our office to dispute the debt. We specifically wait at least 60 days before credit reporting which is twice the required period. *** then sent five additional letters over the subsequent months on November 7, 2023, January 22, 2014, June 20, 2014, September 17, 2014, and January 15, 2015. All of these letters were sent to the same address contained in this complaint. None of them were returned by the **** as undeliverable.
Due to the lack of response, *** moved to litigation. *** served this consumer on May 12, 2015, and gaining a judgment being interest of 12% on July 2,2015. In ****************, judgments carry a statute of limitations of 10 years and can be renewed for another 10 years.
Since FAI received the judgment, this consumer has made payments on July 29, 2016, September 30, 2016 (which bounced), November 3, 2016, December 2, 2016, and July 5, 2017.
Since that time this consumer has ordered *** to no longer communicate via telephone. Subsequently, *** has sent ************************************** this complaint with the most recent sent on September 3, 2024. Some of these letters included the original, consumer-signed contract and the associated judgment.
*** has made diligent efforts to maintain open communications with this consumer. *** intends to continue to pursue the collection of this account as contracted by our client ACU. *** encourages this consumer to contact our office to resolve this matter at ************ during Pacific business hours.
Customer Answer
Date: 09/17/2024

Complaint: 22260499
Dont you think if i knew about a judgement being entered i **** have responded? We should have known before 9.5 after . Washington law state we are suppose to have been given 30 days to response after judgement entered, an appeal. I never received any paperwork in the 9.5 years giving the opportunity to do this. We would like to see all paperwork, that they are saying they sent to us regarding this matter. I would mainly want to see the letter sent to us, and original copy of judgement that was done and letter immediately sent after telling us of the 30 day appeal. Also we are disabled and on a fixed income. Why you wait 9.5 years later to send us copy of judgement, if not to just let it sit to accumulate interest? I have looked up washington state law on what incomes you can not bother. Once we see all documents we requested, I will see about making some kind of arrangement.
I am rejecting this response because:

Sincerely,

********* *******
Business Response
Date: 09/24/2024
September 24, 2024               BBB Complaint #********                 FAI: H957600

In this rejection, the consumer states that she has never received any paperwork regarding this debt. And that she will see about making some kind of a (payment) arrangement if *** provides the associated proof of debt.

Please find attached the original debt validation documents, a letter promising to pay written by ******* ******* dated July 7, 2018, a letter requesting to modify a the payment arrangement written by ********* ******* on June 16, 2018, an email to *** with a promise to pay $50 per month and the associated judgment.

As stated before, *** encourages this consumer to contact our office to resolve this matter at ************ during Pacific business hours.

September 17, 2024               BBB Complaint #********                 FAI: H957600

Financial Assistance, **** (***) is a licensed collection agency contracted by ********************* (***) to collect past due accounts. The accounts that *** places with *** for collection are assigned, not sold to FAI. All accounts remain the property of ****
The subject of this complaint is an overdrawn share (checking/saving) account. This account was opened October 22, 1997, with a date of default of October 26, 2011. The account was assigned to *** for recovery efforts on April 29, 2012. *** credit reported this debt on or about July 16, 2012, as a normal course of business.
In this complaint, the consumer claims that she should have known about this and should have had a chance to dispute it.
*** sent our original Notice of Assignment Letter at the time of assignment on April 29, 2012, to the consumers address contained in this complaint. This letter invites the consumer to contact our office to dispute the debt. We specifically wait at least 60 days before credit reporting which is twice the required period. *** then sent five additional letters over the subsequent months on November 7, 2023, January 22, 2014, June 20, 2014,September 17, 2014, and January 15, 2015. All of these letters were sent to the same address contained in this complaint. None of them were returned by the **** as undeliverable.
Due to the lack of response, *** moved to litigation. *** served this consumer on May 12, 2015, and gaining a judgment being interest of 12% on July 2,2015. In ****************, judgments carry a statute of limitations of 10 years and can be renewed for another 10 years.
Since FAI received the judgment, this consumer has made payments on July 29, 2016, September 30, 2016 (which bounced), November 3, 2016, December 2, 2016, and July 5, 2017.
Since that time this consumer has ordered *** to no longer communicate via telephone. Subsequently, *** has sent ************************************** this complaint with the most recent sent on September 3,2024. Some of these letters included the original, consumer-signed contract and the associated judgment.
*** has made diligent efforts to maintain open communications with this consumer. *** intends to continue to pursue the collection of this account as contracted by our client ACU. *** encourages this consumer to contact our office to resolve this matter at ************ during Pacific business hours.
Initial Complaint
Date:08/09/2024
Type:Order Issues
Status:
AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
Resolved:
The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
Unresolved:
The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
Answered:
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
Unanswered:
The business failed to respond to the dispute.
Unpursuable:
BBB is unable to locate the business.
I am not liable for this debt with First Tech FCU. I do not have a contract with Financial Assistance, they did not provide me with the original contract as requested.
Customer Answer
Date: 08/09/2024
1) AUTHORIZATION FOR RELEASE OF INFORMATION TO THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU

I, Devin *****, expressly authorize Financial Assistance Inc to communicate directly with BBB on all matters relating to the items as specific in the complaint form and including any debts I am alleged to owe.

I have filed a complaint with BBB and authorize BBB to release the complaint form and all supporting documents to Financial Assistance Inc.

I acknowledge without this authorization, Financial Assistance Inc would not be authorized to discuss these matters with BBB and any of its employees or representatives. I expressly waive that restriction for all purposes relating to the complaint I filed with BBB.

Insert Your Name Here:____DEVIN BERRY_______________________________ Date: 08/09/2024
2) Here is the information BBB requested regarding my complaint:
- I requested the verification of the debt from Financial Assistance Inc on 03/05/2024 by Phone)_________________
  
  *****
- The reason why I believe the alleged debt is NOT valid: I do not have a contract with financial assistance
  
  *****
- The account number:_____________________
  *****
******* Please do NOT click 'Proceed' until you have signed and dated your agreement for release of information in Section 1 and provided the requested information in section 2. *******
Business Response
Date: 08/22/2024
August 22, 2024 BBB Complaint #******** FAI: J281049

Financial Assistance, **** (FAI) is a collection agency contracted by ******************************* (FTFCU) to collect past due accounts. The accounts that FTFCU places with FAI for collection are assigned, not sold to FAI. All accounts remain the property of FTFCU.

The subject of this complaint is an unsecured loan with an unpaid principal balance of $500.00 accruing interest at a rate of 18.00%. This account was opened on April 18, 2023. It was assigned for collection on June 3, 2023. This account was credit reported on or about August 16, 2023, as is FAI normal course of business.

In this complaint, the consumer is claiming that he/she requested validating documents for this debt via phone on March 5, 2024, that FAI never supplied and that no contract exists with FAI.

FAI has never had a conversation with this consumer nor received a phone call from this consumer on March 5, 2024, or any other day. Upon receipt of this complaint, *** secured the attached validation of this debt including the Signature Card, Loan Agreement and Statements demonstrating use.

FAI has also attached the Membership Agreement that specifies FTFCUs agree-to rights to assign the debt for collection and to credit report debt as follows:

Assignment and Delegation: We can assign our interest and responsibilities under this Agreement, delegate our responsibilities under this Agreement, and use independent contractors to perform or assist in the performance of our responsibilities under this Agreement, as we deem appropriate.

Note in the first column of page 13 under Confidentiality:
In order that your privacy may be protected, we will not disclose any information about you or your account to any person, organization, or agency except:
(4) to our employees, auditors, service providers, attorneys or collection agents in the course of their duties; or
(6) to a consumer reporting agency as defined in Chapter 93 of the Massachusetts General Laws;

FAI believes that they are acting in accordance with this agreement and governing laws and regulations. FAI invites this consumer to contact our office during Pacific business hours *************) to discuss this matter and is receptive to any solution or resolution that may be available. FTFCU is currently allowing us to extend extremely favorable settlement solutions to their members.
Initial Complaint
Date:08/05/2024
Type:Service or Repair Issues
Status:
AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
Resolved:
The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
Unresolved:
The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
Answered:
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
Unanswered:
The business failed to respond to the dispute.
Unpursuable:
BBB is unable to locate the business.
I was charged for an account that was for a medical bill, even though the bill was for under 500, dollars I paid it, when I paid the bill I was told that it would be removed from my report if I paid the money asked for. To this day they have not removed it from my credit report! I want this deleted.
Customer Answer
Date: 08/06/2024
1) AUTHORIZATION FOR RELEASE OF INFORMATION TO THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU

I, ***********;Charry, expressly authorize Financial Assistance Inc to communicate directly with BBB on all matters relating to the items as specific in the complaint form and including any debts I am alleged to owe.

I have filed a complaint with BBB and authorize BBB to release the complaint form and all supporting documents to Financial Assistance Inc.

I acknowledge without this authorization, Financial Assistance Inc would not be authorized to discuss these matters with BBB and any of its employees or representatives. I expressly waive that restriction for all purposes relating to the complaint I filed with BBB.

Insert Your Name Here:____sandra charry_______________________________ Date: 8__/_6_/_24___

2) Here is the information BBB requested regarding my complaint:
- I requested the verification of the debt from Financial Assistance Inc on _5_/32__/__24_ by Select one -> Email, Phone, Mail, or Other (Please specify)___letter______________
  
  *****
- The reason why I believe the alleged debt is NOT valid is:___I paid what they told me and I was told it would taken out of collections, off credit report and i would not get more calls, still on credit report and got calls for 2 weeks after_______________________________________________________________________________________________
  
  *****
- The account number: I dont have it___________________
  *****
******* Please do NOT click 'Proceed' until you have signed and dated your agreement for release of information in Section 1 and provided the requested information in section 2. *******
Business Response
Date: 08/14/2024
August 14, 2024 BBB Complaint #******** FAI: J184534

Financial Assistance, **** (FAI) is a licensed collection agency contracted by Mountain ******************** (MACU) to collect past due accounts. The accounts that MACU places with FAI for collection are assigned, not sold to FAI. All accounts remain the property of MACU.

The subject of this complaint is an overdrawn share (checking/saving) account with an original balance of $321.09. This account was assigned to FAI for recovery efforts on October 8, 2018. FAI credit reported this debt on or about December 16, 2018, as a normal course of business. The consumer paid a settlement value of $241.07 on January 22, 2019. FAI has been credit reporting this debt as Paid Settlement since that time.

In this complaint, the consumer claims that she requested debt validation from FAI by letter on May 32 (sic), 2024. She also claims that she was told that if she paid the debt, it would be taken out of collections, removed from the credit bureaus and that she would not receive any more calls. She claims that she received calls for two weeks after making payment.

A review of the collection notes indicate that FAI has not received such a request for debt validation on May 32, 2024 or any other date. The collection notes indicate that FAI received an inbound call from the consumer on January 15, 2019 in which a settlement offer to pay a reduced amount of $241.07 was extended.

A review of FAIs call recording indicates that on this January 15, 2019 call, the consumer specifically asked to have this removed from her credit report with payment. FAIs Account Representative explained that the reporting must remain on the credit bureau and that it would read Paid Settlement with a balance of $0.00. The consumer persisted and asked why it wouldnt be removed and the Account Representative explained that as a valid debt it is required to remain reported. The call was ended with the consumer agreeing to make payment at a later time.

On January 18, 2019, FAIs Account Representative contacted the consumer to resume discussions of the settlement offer. The consumer stated that she had made the payment via the USPS. This was the last call that FAI made to this consumer.

On January 22, 2019, *** received the mailed settlement payment and applied it to the account.

FAIs review of the claims made by this consumer to all be false. FAI did not receive a request for debt validation on May 23, 2024 for a debt which paid in January 2019. FAI did not promise to remove the credit reporting with payment. While FAI still maintains the data for this paid account in our system, the account is no longer receiving active collection efforts. FAI has not made additional calls to this consumer after being informed that payment was in route on January 18, 2019.
Initial Complaint
Date:08/01/2024
Type:Order Issues
Status:
AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
Resolved:
The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
Unresolved:
The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
Answered:
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
Unanswered:
The business failed to respond to the dispute.
Unpursuable:
BBB is unable to locate the business.
I am not liable for this debt with MOUNTAIN AMERICA CU, I do not have a contract with FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE INC, they did not provide me with the original contract as i requested
Customer Answer
Date: 08/04/2024
1) AUTHORIZATION FOR RELEASE OF INFORMATION TO THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU

I, Alaysha *******, expressly authorize Financial Assistance Inc to communicate directly with BBB on all matters relating to the items as specific in the complaint form and including any debts I am alleged to owe.

I have filed a complaint with BBB and authorize BBB to release the complaint form and all supporting documents to Financial Assistance Inc.

I acknowledge without this authorization, Financial Assistance Inc would not be authorized to discuss these matters with BBB and any of its employees or representatives. I expressly waive that restriction for all purposes relating to the complaint I filed with BBB.

Insert Your Name Here:___________________________________ Date: __/__/____

2) Here is the information BBB requested regarding my complaint:
- I requested the verification of the debt from Financial Assistance Inc on __/__/___ by Select one -> Email, Phone, Mail, or Other (Please specify)_________________
  
  *****
- The reason why I believe the alleged debt is NOT valid is:__________________________________________________________________________________________________
  
  *****
- The account number:_____________________
  *****
******* Please do NOT click 'Proceed' until you have signed and dated your agreement for release of information in Section 1 and provided the requested information in section 2. *******
Business Response
Date: 08/14/2024
August 14, 2024 BBB Complaint #******** FAI: J289998

Financial Assistance, **** (FAI) is a licensed collection agency contracted by Mountain ******************** (MACU) to collect past due accounts. The accounts that MACU places with FAI for collection are assigned, not sold to FAI. All accounts remain the property of MACU.

The subject of this complaint is an overdrawn share (checking/saving) account with an outstanding balance of $736.09. This account was assigned to FAI for recovery efforts on March 11, 2024. FAI credit reported this debt on or about May 16, 2024 as a normal course of business.

In this complaint, the consumer claims that she requested debt validation from FAI by phone on July 1, 2024. A review of the collection notes indicate that we have not received this request. *** has made seven attempts to reach this consumer to discuss this debt yet has never made contact. FAI has left voicemails requesting a return call at both ************ and ************.

Despite the consumers claim, neither FAI nor MACU have received any CFPB documentation or advocacy group letter excusing this debt for any reason. In the absence of such proof, FAI and MACU will continue to treat this debt as valid and owing.

Please find the validating documentation including the application, signature card and statements demonstrating use attached.

FAI encourages this consumer to contact our office to resolve this matter at ************ during Pacific business hours.
Initial Complaint
Date:05/23/2024
Type:Order Issues
Status:
AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
Resolved:
The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
Unresolved:
The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
Answered:
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
Unanswered:
The business failed to respond to the dispute.
Unpursuable:
BBB is unable to locate the business.
I am not liable for this debt with ************************* I do not have a contract with Financial Assistance Inc, , they did not provide me with the original contract as I requested.
Customer Answer
Date: 05/23/2024
I understand & consent to the release of my information to Financial Assistance Inc outlined in the letter from BBB.

Insert Your Name Here:_Pedro ********* ___________ Date: 05/23/2024

Here is the information BBB requested regarding my complaint:
- I requested the verification of the debt from Financial Assistance Inc on 04/10/24 by Select one -> Email, (((Phone))), Mail, or Other (Please specify)Phone
- The reason why I believe the alleged debt is NOT valid is: I never signed a contract with financial assistance inc I am not liable for this debt. This fraudulent and will pursue legal action.
- The account number: I have no idea, I was never provided with any information just placed with a collection on my credit, which I would like deleted and corrected.
******* Please do NOT click 'Proceed' until you have signed and dated your agreement for release of information and provided the requested information above. *******
Business Response
Date: 05/31/2024
May 31, 2023 BBB Complaint #******** FAI: J289512

Financial Assistance, **** (FAI) is a licensed collection agency contracted by ************************ (HCU) to collect past due accounts. The accounts that HCU places with FAI for collection are assigned, not sold to FAI. All accounts remain the property of HCU.

The subject of this complaint is an auto loan for a used 2007 ****** Impreza with an outstanding principal balance of $12,002.36 accruing interest at an APR of 5.24%. This account was assigned to FAI for collection services on March 7, 2024. FAI submitted this debt to the credit bureaus on or about May 16, 2024 as our normal course of business.

FAI sent our initial Notice of Assignment Letter to the last known address provided by HCU of ************************************************** on March 7, 2024. This letter has yet to be returned by the **** as undeliverable. FAI has updated our records to the address presented in this complaint.

FAI has not been requested to provide validation of debt by this consumer via telephone on April 10, 2024 as indicated in this complaint. *** has made four unsuccessful attempts to reach this consumer on March 8, 2024, March 11, 2024, April 8, 2024 and May 24, 2024. FAI has not yet connected with this consumer.

Please find attached the consumer-signed Retail Installment Sale Contract from ******************, the Vehicle Order, a copy of the consumers Kansas Drivers License, the Dealer Track documents and the complete ledger showing over three years of payments.

FAI encourages this consumer to contact our office to proactively resolve this matter. ************.
Customer Answer
Date: 06/07/2024

Complaint: 21750166

I am rejecting this response because: Car was sold at auction and I was never shown any proof, I never agreed or signed any contract with this entity, Financial Assistance and will keep disputing this until it is dropped.

Sincerely,

*****************************
Initial Complaint
Date:04/25/2024
Type:Billing Issues
Status:
AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
Resolved:
The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
Unresolved:
The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
Answered:
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
Unanswered:
The business failed to respond to the dispute.
Unpursuable:
BBB is unable to locate the business.
These accounts were never given my permissible purpose to furnish the accounts, furthermore they infringed on my rights to privacy in pursuant to 15 usc 1681(a)(4) these corporations have caused damage to me mentally and ?nancially. In pursuant to 15 usc 1681a(2)(I) any transaction or experience should be excluded from my consumer report. Also there is another account that I did not have room for which is FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE J2490, which also violates the beforehand mention codes, and violates many more not mentioned.Account # ************************** Date opened 09/01/2022 Balance 710$
Customer Answer
Date: 04/25/2024
I understand & consent to the release of my information to Financial Assistance Inc outlined in the letter from BBB.

Insert Your Name Here:_______Evan Tulensa____________________________ Date: 04__/25__/_2024___

Here is the information BBB requested regarding my complaint:
- I requested the verification of the debt from Financial Assistance Inc on _4_/_25_/2024____ by Select one -> Email, Phone, Mail, or Other (Please specify)_mail________________
- The reason why I believe the alleged debt is NOT valid is: was not in possesion __________________________________________________________________________________________________
- The account number:_____________________
******* Please do NOT click 'Proceed' until you have signed and dated your agreement for release of information and provided the requested information above. *******
Business Response
Date: 04/29/2024
April 29, 2024                          BBB Complaint #*********               FAI: J249054 & J249193

FAI has addressed this same complaint with supporting documentation via the **** complaints referenced below. FAI has not received any request for verification by mail regarding this debt as stated in this complaint. As stated before, FAI invites this consumer to contact our office to proactively resolve this matter. ************.

April 9, 2024                          **** Complaint #******-13822661             FAI: J249054
                                                **** Complaint #******-13850159             FAI: J249193

Financial Assistance, **** (FAI) is a licensed collection agency contracted by **************** (ECU) to collect past due accounts. The accounts that ECU places with FAI for collection are assigned, not sold to FAI. All accounts remain the property of ECU.

The subjects of theses disputes are two share (checking/saving) accounts with outstanding principal balances of $709.99 and $304.63. These accounts were assigned to FAI for collection services on April 17,2022 and June 26, 2022 respectively. They were credit reported on or about July 16, 2022, and September 16,2022 as is FAIs normal course of business.

FAI has received numerous disputes for both of these accounts from this consumer via the credit bureaus disputing channels. FAI responded with supporting documentation as is required on March 22,2023 for both accounts. Please find attached the consumer signature card, application and transaction histories for both accounts (S00 and S10).

FAI encourages this consumer to contact our office during Pacific business hours to proactively resolve this matter. FAI will continue to attempt to collect these debts while respecting the cease-and-desist order.
Initial Complaint
Date:04/24/2024
Type:Order Issues
Status:
AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
Resolved:
The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
Unresolved:
The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
Answered:
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
Unanswered:
The business failed to respond to the dispute.
Unpursuable:
BBB is unable to locate the business.
I am not liable for this debt with (insert original creditor), I do not have a contract with (insert the ******************** they did not provide me with the original contract as i requested
Customer Answer
Date: 04/25/2024
I understand & consent to the release of my information to Financial Assistance Inc outlined in the letter from BBB.

Insert Your Name Here: ***********************
Date: 04/25/2024

Here is the information BBB requested regarding my complaint:
- I requested the verification of the debt from Financial Assistance Inc on 04/09/2024 by CERTIFIED USPS MAIL
- The reason why I believe the alleged debt is: I am not liable for this debt with Financial Assistance Inc., I do not have a contract with The Original Creditor, they did not provide me with the original contract as i requested. Continuing to report this debt is a prohibited practice.
- According to my attorney, this debt was paid by a car accident settlement and a bill including payment was forwarded to me. Otherwise, I have no contract or account with this debtor.
- The account number: never presented to me. It only shows as the information that I provided in the document attached to this original complaint. See attached for the info I have received. As stated above, I have no contract here, therefore, an account number will not be available to me.
- I am electronically signing this document. ************************* 04/25/2024 D.S.
******* Please do NOT click 'Proceed' until you have signed and dated your agreement for release of information and provided the requested information above. *******
Business Response
Date: 05/03/2024
May 3, 2024                            BBB ********                         FAI: J257714

Financial Assistance, **** (FAI) is a collection agency contracted by Mutual of ****************** ***** to collect past due accounts. The accounts that *** places with FAI for collection are assigned, not sold to FAI. All accounts remain the property of ***.

The subject of this complaint is an unpaid insurance premium for a home and auto policy for of September 2, 2022 to December 7, 2022. A $10.00 fee has been applied to the defaulted account with a balance pending at FAI of $539.01 accruing interest at the Washington Statutory Default Rate of 9.00%.

FAI is not in receipt of a certified letter mailed on April 9, 2024 as stated by the consumer.

All associated documents are attached with this response.

We encourage the consumer to contact our office to proactive resolve this matter. ************
Customer Answer
Date: 05/09/2024

Complaint: 21621537

I am rejecting this response because:
See attached.

Sincerely,

***********************
Business Response
Date: 05/21/2024
May 21, 2024                         BBB ********                         FAI: J257714

While FAI believes that this debt is valid, FAI has closed and returned it to our client *** for internal resolution. FAI has removed our credit reporting.

May 3, 2024                            BBB ********                         FAI: J257714

Financial Assistance, **** (FAI) is a collection agency contracted by Mutual of ****************** (***) to collect past due accounts. The accounts that *** places with FAI for collection are assigned, not sold to FAI. All accounts remain the property of ***.

The subject of this complaint is an unpaid insurance premium for a home and auto policy for of September 2, 2022 to December 7, 2022. A $10.00 fee has been applied to the defaulted account with a balance pending at FAI of $539.01 accruing interest at the Washington Statutory Default Rate of 9.00%.

FAI is not in receipt of a certified letter mailed on April 9, 2024 as stated by the consumer.

All associated documents are attached with this response.

We encourage the consumer to contact our office to proactive resolve this matter. ************
Initial Complaint
Date:04/17/2024
Type:Billing Issues
Status:
AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
Resolved:
The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
Unresolved:
The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
Answered:
The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
Unanswered:
The business failed to respond to the dispute.
Unpursuable:
BBB is unable to locate the business.
On April 12, 2024, I sent Financial Assistance, **** a NOTICE AND DEMAND to CEASE AND DESIST in accordance with 15 USC 1692c(c). This request includes stopping all collection attempts and refraining from reporting this account #********* to any CONSUMER REPORTING AGENCY.15 USC 1692c(c) Ceasing communication If a consumer notifies a debt collector in writing that the consumer refuses to pay a debt or that the consumer wishes the debt collector to cease further communication with the consumer, the debt collector shall not communicate further with the consumer with respect to such debt, except(1)to advise the consumer that the debt collectors further efforts are being terminated;(2)to notify the consumer that the debt collector or creditor may invoke specified remedies which are ordinarily invoked by such debt collector or creditor; or (3)where applicable, to notify the consumer that the debt collector or creditor intends to invoke a specified remedy.If such notice from the consumer is made by mail, notification shall be complete upon receipt.According to 15 USC 1692c(c) Ceasing communication, if a consumer informs a debt collector in writing that they refuse to pay a debt or wish to cease further communication, the debt collector must comply. Nevertheless, Financial Assistance, **** is intentionally disregarding compliance by persisting in furnishing information to my consumer credit reports as of April 17th, 2024, despite having received my Cease and desist notice on April 12, 2024.
Customer Answer
Date: 04/21/2024
I understand & consent to the release of my information to Financial Assistance Inc outlined in the letter from BBB.

Insert Your Name Here:__Donnie ******* Date: 04/20_/2024

Here is the information BBB requested regarding my complaint:
- I requested the verification of the debt from Financial Assistance Inc on 04/08/2024 by Select one -> Email, Phone, Mail, or Other (Please specify) Certified mail
- The reason why I believe the alleged debt is not valid: I sent a notice via mail and submitted a complaint to the **** on September 22, 2023, addressing debt reporting practices that contravene federal regulations and the **** membership account agreement. **********************, ***** have infringed upon my consumer rights as outlined in the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) 15 USC 1692(g)b regarding the validation of debts, as well as the **** membership account agreement.
- 15 USC 1692c(c) Ceasing communication
  If a consumer notifies a debt collector in writing that the consumer refuses to pay a debt or that the consumer wishes the debt collector to cease further communication with the consumer, the debt collector shall not communicate further with the consumer with respect to such debt, except
  (1)
  to advise the consumer that the debt collectors further efforts are being terminated;
  (2)
  to notify the consumer that the debt collector or creditor may invoke specified remedies which are ordinarily invoked by such debt collector or creditor; or
  (3)
  where applicable, to notify the consumer that the debt collector or creditor intends to invoke a specified remedy.
  If such notice from the consumer is made by mail, notification shall be complete upon receipt.
- The account number: *******
******* Please do NOT click 'Proceed' until you have signed and dated your agreement for release of information and provided the requested information above. *******
Business Response
Date: 04/29/2024
April 29, 2024 BBB Complaint 21590466 ***: J274955

Financial Assistance, **** (***) is a licensed collection agency contracted by First Tech ******************** (*****) to collect past due accounts. The accounts that ***** places with *** for collection are assigned, not sold to ***. All accounts remain the property of *****.

The subject of this complaint is a share (checking/saving) account with an unpaid balance of $407.00. This account was opened on October 21, 2019. It was assigned for collection on July 11,2023. This account was credit reported to the bureaus on or about September 18, 2023, as is ***s normal course of business.

In this complaint, the consumer takes issue with *** continuing to credit report the $407.00 debt despite presenting *** with a cease-and-desist notice. *** acknowledges that we received the consumers cease-and-desist notice on April 12, 2024. *** has noted the file accordingly and taken precautions to prohibit any outbound collection activities on this account. No further contact with the consumer has been, nor will be made. However, the presence of a cease-and-desist notice does not preclude ***s continued credit reporting of this $407.00 debt.

*** has received and responded to previous CFPB and BBB complaints on September 28, 2023 and November 9, 2023,respectively. In each of those responses,*** has provided validation of this $407.00 debt. Additionally, in each of those responses *** has provided the ***** Membership Agreement which states that ***** *** assign its duties and that they (and the parties to which they assign) *** credit report the debt.

Since *** is barred from reaching out to help this consumer to resolve this matter, any further progress will require that the consumer contact the *** office during Pacific business hours for further assistance in proactively resolving this matter. ************
Customer Answer
Date: 05/03/2024

Complaint: 21590466

I am rejecting this response because:

While I appreciate FAI acknowledgment of receiving the cease-and-desist notice on April 12, 2024, I must express my strong disagreement with their assertion that they have the legal right to continue reporting my non-personal information to non-affiliated third-party agencies.

Firstly, I would like to point out that FAI decision to continue reporting the alleged debt violates 15 USC 1692c(c) regarding ceasing communication. This statute clearly states If a consumer notifies a debt collector in writing that the consumer refuses to pay a debt or that the consumer wishes the debt collector to cease further communication with the consumer, the debt collector shall not communicate further with the consumer with respect to such debt, except
(1)
to advise the consumer that the debt collectors further efforts are being terminated;
(2)
to notify the consumer that the debt collector or creditor *** invoke specified remedies which are ordinarily invoked by such debt collector or creditor; or
(3)
where applicable, to notify the consumer that the debt collector or creditor intends to invoke a specified remedy.
If such notice from the consumer is made by mail, notification shall be complete upon receipt.

Therefore, *** continued credit reporting of this alleged debt constitutes a violation of this law. Reporting is a form of communication not allowed by the law mentioned above.

Secondly, I have thoroughly reviewed the signed account agreement disclosure from October 21, 2019, and have found no language indicating that I have agreed to allow the reporting of my non-personal information to consumer reporting agencies at any time. Without explicit consent from me, FAI actions of reporting this information are unjustified and unlawful according to the ***** And also violate FTCU account terms and agreements.

Thirdly, the agreed-upon terms of the (see attachment) Membership Agreement states: Assignment and Delegation: We can assign our interest and responsibilities under this Agreement, delegate our responsibilities under this Agreement, and use independent contractors to perform or assist in the performance of our responsibilities under this Agreement, as we deem appropriate.
FAI mentioned in their BBB response the following: FAI has provided the ***** Membership Agreement which states that ***** *** assign its duties and that they (and the parties to which they assign) *** credit report the debt. The agreement does not contain any provisions permitting the reporting of my non-public personal information to consumer reporting agencies.

In light of these points, I urge FAI to reconsider their stance and immediately cease the credit reporting of the $407.00 debt in question. I also request that FAI provide me with confirmation of the cessation of these reporting activities and take necessary steps to rectify any negative impact on my credit caused by their continued reporting.

I trust that FAI will take prompt action to address this matter and ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

Sincerely,

***************************
Customer Answer
Date: 05/04/2024
I believe its important to notate that
FAI acknowledges that they have received the my cease-and-desist notice on April 12, 2024. FAI has noted their file accordingly and taken precautions to prohibit any outbound collection activities on this account. They also would acknowledge that No further contact with the consumer has been, nor will be made. However, *** believes presence of a cease-and-desist notice does not preclude FAIs continued credit reporting of this $407.00 debt.
Federal law defines communication as: The term communication means the conveying of information regarding a debt directly or indirectly to any person through any medium. This statement defines "communication" as the act of sharing information about a debt, whether it's done directly or indirectly, using any means or method to convey that information to any person.
Hence, FAI's belief that a cease notice does not prevent FAI from continuing to report this $407.00 alleged debt to nonaffiliated third party companies stems from a misinterpretation of the law.

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Financial Assistance Inc is NOT a BBB Accredited Business.