Seeing Harvard Collection Services on your credit report can be frustrating and confusing. This guide explains who they are, what they do, and how to protect your credit from further damage.
What Is Harvard Collection Services?
Harvard Collection Services, Inc. is a debt collection agency based in Chicago, Illinois. They work with companies across different industries to collect unpaid debts. If you have an old or unpaid bill, and it was sent to this agency, you might see them listed as a collection account on your credit report.
Who Do They Collect For?
Harvard Collection Services collects debts on behalf of clients in several sectors, including:
- Healthcare
- Government agencies
- Education and student loans
- Financial services
- Telecommunications
- Utilities
- Compliance and training providers
They may be trying to collect on things like unpaid medical bills, overdue student loans, credit card debt, government fines, or unpaid phone and utility bills.
Is Harvard Collection Services a Legitimate Company?
Yes, Harvard Collection Services is a legitimate debt collector. They’re authorized to pursue unpaid accounts for their clients. However, that doesn’t mean every debt they report is accurate—mistakes do happen. Always confirm that any debt they claim you owe is real and reported correctly before making any payment.
How to Remove Harvard Collection Services From Your Credit Report
A collection account can drop your credit score and stay on your report for up to seven years. Here’s how you might be able to get it removed:
- Check for errors: Look for inaccurate details like the wrong balance, wrong dates, or even a debt that isn’t yours. If you find anything wrong, dispute it with the credit bureaus.
- Request debt validation: Ask Harvard Collection Services to verify the debt in writing. They must respond within 30 days and provide proof that the debt belongs to you.
- Negotiate a pay-for-delete: If the debt is valid, you can offer to pay in exchange for them removing the account from your credit report. This isn’t guaranteed, but it’s worth trying—and always get the agreement in writing.
- Get professional help: A credit repair company can help you through the process, especially if you’re dealing with multiple collections or unsure where to start.
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 Harvard Collection Services?
Before you reach out or make a payment, take these steps:
- Confirm the debt is yours and accurate
- Check whether it’s still within the statute of limitations
- Understand that paying may restart the reporting clock
If you decide to settle the account, try negotiating a pay-for-delete or partial settlement. Always get any agreement in writing before sending money.
Can Harvard Collection Services Sue You or Garnish Your Wages?
Yes, they can take legal action to collect a debt. If they sue and win a judgment, they may be able to garnish your wages or freeze your bank account, depending on your state’s laws.
That said, lawsuits are usually a last resort. Most collection agencies prefer to resolve debts through payment plans or settlements.
Complaints About Harvard Collection Services
Like many collectors, Harvard Collection Services has received complaints with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Common issues include:
- Reporting inaccurate information
- Harassment or repeated calls
- Failing to verify debts when asked
If you’re dealing with these problems, you can file a complaint with the CFPB or your state attorney general’s office.
Your Rights When Dealing With Harvard Collection Services
You’re protected under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). These federal laws give you important rights, including:
- The right to dispute errors on your credit report
- The right to request debt validation from a collector
- Protection from harassment, threats, or deception
Here’s what Harvard Collection Services is not allowed to do:
- Report false or incomplete information
- Refuse to validate a debt if you request it in writing
- Call you repeatedly or use abusive language
- Misrepresent who they are or what they can do
- Threaten jail time over unpaid debts
If they break any of these rules, you have the right to take action—and possibly get the debt removed altogether.
Contact Information for Harvard Collection Services
Address:
Harvard Collection Services
4839 N Elston Ave
Chicago, IL 60630
Phone Numbers:
(855) 945-4800
(844) 886-3705
Want to Remove Harvard Collection Services From Your Credit?
If dealing with debt collectors feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. A reputable credit repair service can help you dispute inaccurate information, request debt validation, and work to get collections removed from your report.
For example, Credit Saint has helped thousands of people clean up their credit by handling accounts from agencies like Harvard Collection Services. To learn more, visit their website or call (855) 281-1510.
