If A1 Collections just showed up on your credit report, you’re probably wondering who they are and how to get rid of them. Here’s what you need to know—and how to handle it.
Who Is A-1 Collection Agency?
A-1 Collection Agency (also known as A1 Collections) is a third-party debt collector based in Grand Junction, Colorado. They collect on behalf of businesses, mainly in the healthcare sector. So if you’ve missed a payment on a hospital bill or other medical service, there’s a good chance they’re behind the call or letter you just received.
What Kind of Debts Does A1 Collections Handle?
A1 Collections typically collects:
- Medical bills – hospital stays, doctor visits, surgeries, etc.
- Overdue fees – like late payment charges from service providers.
If you’re seeing their name on your credit report, it likely means one of your past-due accounts was sent to them for collection.
Is A1 Collections a Real Company?
Yes, A1 Collections is a legitimate debt collection agency. They’re not a scam, but that doesn’t mean every debt they report is correct. Collection agencies often have outdated or incomplete information, so always verify a debt before paying it.
How to Remove A1 Collections From Your Credit Report
Collections can lower your credit score and stay on your report for up to seven years—but you do have options. Here’s how to remove A1 Collections:
1. Dispute Any Errors
If you believe the collection is inaccurate, file a dispute with the credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion). They’ll investigate the account and remove it if they can’t verify the details.
2. Request Debt Validation
Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), you can ask A1 Collections to validate the debt. Send a written request asking them to prove the debt is yours and the amount is correct. If they can’t, they’re required to stop collection efforts.
3. Try a Pay-for-Delete Agreement
If the debt is valid, you can try negotiating a pay-for-delete. That means you agree to pay the debt (in full or for less) in exchange for the account being removed from your credit report. Get any agreement in writing before sending payment.
4. Work With a Credit Repair Company
If this process feels too stressful or time-consuming, a reputable credit repair service can handle it for you. They can dispute the debt, negotiate on your behalf, and help remove negative items from your report.
Ready to Clean Up Your Credit Report?
Learn how credit repair professionals can assist you in disputing inaccuracies on your credit report.
Should You Pay A1 Collections?
Don’t rush to pay just because they contacted you. First, make sure:
- The debt is valid
- The amount is correct
- It hasn’t passed the statute of limitations in your state
Also, be aware that paying an old debt can reset the clock on it and negatively impact your credit if not handled properly.
Can A1 Collections Sue You or Garnish Your Wages?
Yes, they can—but it’s not their first move. If you ignore their collection attempts long enough, they may decide to sue. If they win in court, they could potentially garnish your wages or freeze your bank account, depending on state laws.
But this is usually a last resort. Most collectors prefer to work out a payment plan or settle the debt before taking legal action.
Complaints Against A1 Collections
Like many debt collectors, A1 Collections has complaints filed with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Most complaints are about:
- Reporting errors
- Harassment
- Failure to verify debts
If you’re experiencing any of these, you can file a complaint and assert your rights.
Your Rights Under Federal Law
Debt collectors must follow strict rules under the FDCPA and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). Here are some of your key protections:
- You can dispute inaccurate information on your credit report.
- You have the right to request debt validation. The collector must prove you owe the debt.
- Collectors cannot harass or threaten you with arrest, lawsuits, or public shame.
- They must tell you who they are and that they’re trying to collect a debt.
If A1 Collections violates any of these rules, you can report them—and potentially sue.
A1 Collections Contact Information
Address:
A-1 Collection Agency
715 Horizon Dr. Ste 401
Grand Junction, CO 81506
Phone: (970) 241-2075
Final Thoughts
Having A1 Collections on your credit report isn’t the end of the world—but ignoring it can make things worse. Whether you dispute the debt, negotiate a pay-for-delete, or get help from a credit repair company, taking action is key.
If you’re feeling stuck, companies like Credit Saint have helped thousands of people remove collections like these. They know the system and how to challenge inaccurate or outdated information.
You can visit their website or call (855) 281-1510 to learn more.
