If you’ve spotted International Recovery Associates on your credit report, you’re probably wondering who they are—and how to deal with them. Here’s everything you need to know about this collection agency, what they do, and how to protect your credit score.
What Is International Recovery Associates?
International Recovery Associates, Inc. (IRA) is a third-party debt collection agency based in Nesconset, New York. They’re hired by businesses—primarily in the healthcare industry—to collect unpaid debts.
If they show up on your credit report, it usually means a medical bill wasn’t paid, and the original provider turned it over to collections.
Who Do They Collect For?
International Recovery Associates mainly collects debts for healthcare providers, including:
- Hospitals
- Private practices
- Clinics
- Other medical service providers
This can include charges for anything from a basic office visit to a hospital stay or surgery.
Is International Recovery Associates Legit?
Yes, International Recovery Associates is a real company—not a scam. But that doesn’t mean their collection efforts always feel pleasant. Like many agencies, they may contact you frequently by phone, text, or email, which can feel overwhelming or even harassing.
How to Remove International Recovery Associates From Your Credit Report
A collection account can lower your credit score and stay on your report for up to seven years—even after you pay it off. Here are some steps to try and remove it:
- Dispute inaccurate information: Check if the account has errors, like the wrong amount or a debt that’s not yours. If so, file a dispute with the credit bureaus.
- Request debt validation: Send a written request asking International Recovery Associates to prove the debt is accurate and actually yours. They’re required to respond within 30 days.
- Negotiate a pay-for-delete: If the debt is valid, you can try negotiating a deal where you agree to pay in exchange for having the item deleted from your credit report. Get any agreement in writing before you send money.
- Work with a credit repair company: If you’re not comfortable handling this on your own, a professional credit repair service can help dispute or remove collections.
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 International Recovery Associates?
Don’t rush to pay before you verify the debt. Sometimes, accounts are listed in error or have already been paid. And in some cases, making a payment can reset the clock on how long the debt affects your credit.
If the debt is valid and within the statute of limitations, negotiating a settlement or pay-for-delete agreement might be worth considering—but always get everything in writing first.
Can International Recovery Associates Sue or Garnish Wages?
They can—but that doesn’t mean they will. Like other collection agencies, International Recovery Associates has the legal right to sue over unpaid debts. If they win a lawsuit, they may be able to garnish your wages depending on your state’s laws.
However, lawsuits are usually a last resort. Most agencies prefer to settle the debt without going to court.
Common Complaints About International Recovery Associates
This agency has received complaints through the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and Better Business Bureau (BBB). The most common issues include:
- Inaccurate information on credit reports
- Harassing phone calls
- Failure to verify the debt when requested
If you feel your rights are being violated, you can file a complaint with the CFPB or your state attorney general.
Know Your Rights Under Federal Law
You have legal protections when dealing with debt collectors like International Recovery Associates. Two federal laws help you:
- The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA): Prohibits threats, harassment, or deceptive practices.
- The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA): Gives you the right to dispute inaccurate information on your credit reports.
Here’s what International Recovery Associates is not allowed to do:
- Report false or incomplete information about you
- Ignore your request for debt validation
- Use threats, profanity, or harassing behavior
- Misrepresent who they are or why they’re contacting you
- Threaten you with arrest or jail
Contact Information for International Recovery Associates
Address:
International Recovery Associates, Inc.
195 Smithtown Blvd.
Nesconset, NY 11767
Phone: (631) 361-3500
Don’t Let a Collection Account Drag Down Your Score
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you don’t have to go it alone. Credit repair companies can help you dispute inaccurate items, request validation, and even negotiate removals with collection agencies.
For example, Credit Saint has helped thousands of people clean up their credit reports and deal with accounts from companies like International Recovery Associates. You can call them at (855) 281-1510 or visit their website to get started.
