If Fair Collections and Outsourcing is showing up on your credit report, it means a past-due account was sent to collections. Fair Collections and Outsourcing, Inc. (FCO) is a debt collection agency based in Beltsville, Maryland, known for collecting various types of consumer debts.
Collections accounts can damage your credit score for years, but there are ways to address them—and possibly remove the account from your credit report.
Who Does Fair Collections and Outsourcing Collect For?
Fair Collections and Outsourcing works with a variety of industries, with a particular focus on:
- Student housing accounts
- Military housing accounts
- Senior living and assisted living accounts
- Commercial property collections
- Student loan and education-related accounts
If you’ve fallen behind on payments in any of these areas, your account may have been turned over to FCO for collections.
Is Fair Collections and Outsourcing Legitimate?
Yes, FCO is a legitimate debt collection agency. They are authorized to collect debts on behalf of other businesses. However, always verify the debt is valid and belongs to you before making any payments.
How to Remove Fair Collections and Outsourcing From Your Credit Report
Collections accounts can stay on your credit report for up to seven years, but you have a few options to remove FCO:
- Dispute Inaccurate Information: If the account isn’t yours or the details are wrong, file a dispute with the credit bureaus. They must investigate and correct any errors.
- Negotiate a Pay-for-Delete: Some collection agencies may agree to remove the account if you pay the balance. Get the agreement in writing before sending money.
- Work With a Credit Repair Company: Credit repair professionals help challenge negative marks from companies like FCO every day.
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Should You Contact or Pay Fair Collections and Outsourcing?
Before contacting FCO or sending payment, verify the debt is accurate and still legally collectible. Mistakes happen, and paying an invalid or expired debt can sometimes restart the collection clock.
Many people prefer to work with a trusted credit repair company to avoid common mistakes and ensure the account is handled properly.
Can Fair Collections and Outsourcing Sue You or Garnish Your Wages?
Fair Collections and Outsourcing can sue you to collect unpaid debts. If they win a court judgment, they may be able to:
- Garnish your wages
- Freeze your bank account
- Place a lien on your property
The ability to take these actions depends on your state’s laws. That said, lawsuits and wage garnishments are usually last-resort measures. Most agencies prefer to settle the debt or set up a payment plan first.
Fair Collections and Outsourcing Contact Information
- Address:
Fair Collections and Outsourcing, Inc.
12304 Baltimore Ave, Suite E
Beltsville, MD 20705 - Phone:
(877) 324-7265 or (877) 324-7959
Complaints About Fair Collections and Outsourcing
FCO has received consumer complaints with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Common complaints include:
- Inaccurate information on credit reports
- Harassment or repeated phone calls
- Failure to verify debts
If you experience these issues, you can file a complaint:
- CFPB: Visit consumerfinance.gov or call (855) 411-2372
- BBB: File a complaint at bbb.org
Your Rights When Dealing With Fair Collections and Outsourcing
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) and Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) protect your rights. You have the right to:
- Dispute inaccurate or incomplete information on your credit report
- Request debt validation within 30 days; FCO must prove the debt is yours and accurate
- Be treated fairly; harassment or threats are illegal
- Be clearly informed they are a debt collection agency
- Never be threatened with arrest or jail for unpaid debts
If your rights are violated, report them to the CFPB or seek legal help.
Remove Fair Collections and Outsourcing From Your Credit Report Today
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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.