If you’ve spotted Brown & Joseph on your credit report, it usually means a business is trying to collect an unpaid debt through this agency. Here’s what to know about them and how to potentially get that collection removed.
Who Is Brown & Joseph?
Brown & Joseph, LLC is a debt collection agency based in Itasca, Illinois. They help businesses recover unpaid debts by providing services like pre-collection, third-party collections, and even international debt recovery.
If you see them listed on your credit report, it likely means a company has hired them to collect an outstanding balance tied to your account.
Who Does Brown & Joseph Collect For?
Brown & Joseph specializes in business-to-business (B2B) collections. They recover debts for companies across multiple industries, including:
- Insurance providers
- Logistics companies
- Telecommunications businesses
- Financial services
- Other commercial enterprises
If you owe money to a business, Brown & Joseph may be the agency tasked with collecting that debt.
Is Brown & Joseph Legitimate?
Yes, Brown & Joseph is a legitimate debt collection company. They are authorized to collect debts on behalf of their clients. That said, always verify the debt before paying. You have the right to confirm the details and ensure the account is accurate.
How to Remove Brown & Joseph From Your Credit Report
Collection accounts can damage your credit score and stay on your credit report for up to seven years. But you have options to address the situation:
- Dispute the Account: If the account is incorrect or incomplete, file a dispute with the credit bureaus. They must investigate and fix any errors.
- Negotiate a Pay-for-Delete: Some agencies may agree to remove the account from your credit report if you pay. This is not guaranteed, so always get the agreement in writing.
- Use a Credit Repair Service: Credit repair experts can help challenge negative items and work to have them removed.
Ready to Clean Up Your Credit Report?
Learn how credit repair professionals can assist you in disputing inaccuracies on your credit report.
Should You Contact or Pay Brown & Joseph?
Before contacting Brown & Joseph or making a payment, verify the debt. Credit reports often contain errors or outdated information. Also, paying a debt can restart the statute of limitations in some states, affecting how long legal action can be taken.
Many people choose to work with a credit repair professional to avoid common mistakes and handle collections effectively.
Can Brown & Joseph Sue You or Garnish Your Wages?
Brown & Joseph does have the legal right to sue you for unpaid debt. If they take you to court and win, they may be able to garnish your wages or levy your bank account, depending on your state’s laws.
Lawsuits are usually a last resort if other collection efforts fail.
Complaints About Brown & Joseph
Like many debt collection agencies, Brown & Joseph has complaints filed with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Common complaints include:
- Inaccurate or outdated information on credit reports
- Harassing or excessive phone calls
- Failure to properly verify debts
If you believe your rights are being violated, you can file a complaint with the CFPB or BBB.
Your Rights When Dealing With Brown & Joseph
You are protected by federal laws like the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). These laws ensure you are treated fairly and protect against abusive collection practices.
Here are your rights:
- Debt Validation: You can request written proof that the debt belongs to you and that the amount is correct. Send a debt validation letter within 30 days of their first contact.
- Accurate Reporting: Brown & Joseph cannot report false, incomplete, or outdated information about you.
- No Harassment: They cannot use threatening language, call excessively, or try to publicly shame you.
- Transparency: They must clearly identify themselves as a debt collector and explain why they are contacting you.
- No False Threats: They cannot threaten arrest or legal action they don’t intend to take.
Brown & Joseph Contact Information
Address:
Brown & Joseph, LLC
One Pierce Place, Ste 700W
Itasca, IL 60143
Phone Number:
(847) 758-3000
Remove Brown & Joseph From Your Credit Report
If a Brown & Joseph collection account is damaging your credit, you don’t have to face it alone. Credit Saint helps people dispute negative items and work to clean up their credit reports.
They even offer a 90-day money-back guarantee, giving you extra confidence as you get started.
Visit their website or call (855) 281-1510 today to learn more.
Brooke Banks is a personal finance writer specializing in credit, debt, and smart money management. She helps readers understand their rights, build better credit, and make confident financial decisions with clear, practical advice.
