What you'll do
- Spot common reasons a debt may be linked to the wrong person
- Gather the details needed to verify identity and the account
- Compare the claimed debt against your own history
- Raise the matter clearly if the debt is not yours
- Know where to get help if you are unsure
5 min
Why a debt might not be yours
Occasionally a debt is matched to the wrong person — for example, because of a similar name, a shared former address, an old account you do not remember, or, rarely, identity fraud. Checking carefully protects you and helps the collector correct any error.
This is general information, not legal advice. If you suspect fraud or are unsure, please seek free advice using the links below.
Details to gather
To check a debt against your own history, it helps to know:
- The name of the original creditor
- The account number and the date it was opened
- The address the account was registered to
- The amount and what it relates to
Step-by-step
- Ask the collector for the original creditor, the account number, and the registered address.
- Check those details against your own records and memory.
- Look for mismatches — a name spelt differently, an address you never lived at, or an account you never opened.
- If anything does not add up, write to say you do not believe the debt is yours and explain why.
- Ask them to pause collection while they verify your identity against the account.
- Keep a dated copy of everything you send and receive.
For more on this, see how to verify a debt collector is genuine.
If it is not your debt
If you are confident the debt is not yours, say so clearly in writing and ask them to stop contacting you about it. If you think your identity has been misused, seek free advice promptly. You can also reach us through our contact page.
Good to know
- Mistaken identity and old addresses are common, fixable causes of confusion
- Compare the creditor, account number and registered address with your records
- If it is not yours, say so in writing and ask them to verify
- Seek free advice quickly if you suspect identity fraud
FAQ
How do I prove a debt is not mine?
Start by asking for the account details, then point out the mismatches — a wrong address, a name that is not yours, or an account you never opened. Ask the collector to verify your identity against the account.
What if the debt is from an old address?
Old debts can still be yours, but they can also be linked to a previous occupant. Ask for the account details and the dates so you can check whether it relates to you.
What if I think someone used my identity?
Tell the collector in writing and seek free advice promptly. Possible identity fraud should be looked into carefully, and keep records of all contact.
Still not sure? Our team is happy to talk it through.