Seeing First Federal Credit Control (FFCC) on your credit report often means an unpaid account has been sent to collections. This can hurt your credit score, but there are ways to resolve the account—and potentially have it removed.
Who Is First Federal Credit Control?
First Federal Credit Control, also known as FFCC or FFCC Cleveland, is a debt collection agency based in Ohio. They collect overdue debts on behalf of businesses, including retailers, lenders, healthcare providers, and other service industries.
If they appear on your credit report, it means one of your past-due accounts has been turned over to them for collection.
Who Does First Federal Credit Control Collect For?
FFCC works with a variety of industries, including:
- Consumer retailers
- Business-to-business service providers
- Financial institutions
- Healthcare companies and medical offices
If you missed payments to one of these businesses, your account may have ended up with FFCC for collections.
Is First Federal Credit Control Legitimate?
Yes, First Federal Credit Control is a legitimate debt collection agency. They are authorized to collect outstanding balances for their clients. However, mistakes happen, so always verify the debt is valid and accurate before making any payments.
How to Remove First Federal Credit Control From Your Credit Report
Collections can stay on your credit report for up to seven years, but you have options to remove FFCC:
- Dispute Errors: Review your credit reports for incorrect details. If the account information is inaccurate, file a dispute with the credit bureaus. They must investigate and correct any mistakes.
- Request Debt Validation: You have the right to request written proof that the debt belongs to you. Send a debt validation letter to FFCC. If they can’t verify the account, they are required to stop collection efforts and remove the account.
- Negotiate a Pay-for-Delete: Some agencies agree to remove collections if you settle the debt. Always get a pay-for-delete agreement in writing before sending payment.
- Work With a Credit Repair Professional: Credit repair experts handle disputes and negotiations every day. They can assist with removing negative items like FFCC from your credit 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 Contact or Pay First Federal Credit Control?
Before reaching out or paying FFCC, confirm the debt is yours and within your state’s legal collection window. Making payments on old debts can sometimes restart the collection timeline.
If the debt is valid, you may want to negotiate a settlement or arrange for removal as part of a pay-for-delete agreement.
Can First Federal Credit Control Sue You or Garnish Your Wages?
FFCC has the legal right to sue for unpaid debts. If they file a lawsuit and win a judgment, they may be able to:
- Garnish your wages
- Place a lien on your property
- Freeze your bank account
Lawsuits are typically a last resort. Most debt collectors prefer to settle or arrange payment plans before pursuing legal action.
First Federal Credit Control Contact Information
- Address:
First Federal Credit Control, Inc.
24700 Chagrin Blvd, Suite 205
Cleveland, OH 44122 - Phone:
(800) 486-5500
Complaints About First Federal Credit Control
Like many collection agencies, FFCC has received complaints filed with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Common issues include:
- Incorrect reporting to credit bureaus
- Harassment or repeated phone calls
- Failure to properly verify debts
If your rights are being violated, you can file a complaint with:
- CFPB: consumerfinance.gov or call (855) 411-2372
- BBB: bbb.org
Your Rights When Dealing With FFCC
Debt collectors must follow federal and state laws. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) and Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) protect your rights:
- You can dispute inaccurate or incomplete credit report information
- You can request written validation of the debt
- Harassment, threats, and abusive language are prohibited
- Collectors must clearly identify themselves and their purpose
- Threats of arrest or jail for unpaid debts are illegal
If FFCC violates these rules, report them to the appropriate agency.
Remove First Federal Credit Control From Your Credit Report Today
Dealing with FFCC on your credit report? You don’t have to figure it out alone. Credit Saint helps consumers challenge negative accounts like First Federal Credit Control—and they back their services with a 90-day satisfaction guarantee.
Want help improving your credit? Visit their website or call (855) 281-1510 to see how they can assist you.
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.
