If Credit Collection Services (CCS) has popped up on your credit report, there’s a good chance it’s hurting your credit score. But just because it’s listed doesn’t mean it has to stay there. Here’s what you need to know—and how to get it removed.
What Is Credit Collection Services?
Credit Collection Services, or CCS, is a third-party debt collection agency based in Norwood, Massachusetts. They’re one of the largest collectors in the country, with around 700 employees and millions in annual revenue.
If CCS appears on your credit report, it usually means the original creditor either sold your debt to CCS or hired them to collect on their behalf.
Who Does Credit Collection Services Collect For?
CCS collects for companies in many different industries, including:
- Banks and financial institutions
- Cable and utility companies
- Healthcare providers and insurance companies
- Retailers and e-commerce businesses
- Colleges and loan servicers
- Telecom companies
You might not recognize the name “CCS” because they weren’t the original company you owed.
Is CCS Legitimate or a Scam?
Credit Collection Services is a real company that’s been in business since 1996. They have a “B” rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). But just because they’re legit doesn’t mean the debt is valid.
Always verify the accuracy of any debt before making payments. Credit report errors are more common than you might think.
How to Remove CCS From Your Credit Report
A collection account can stick around for up to seven years, even after it’s paid. That’s why removing it entirely is often the best move. Here’s how to do it:
1. Check for Errors and Dispute Them
Start by pulling your credit reports from all three bureaus. Look for anything that doesn’t seem right—wrong dates, incorrect balances, or accounts that don’t belong to you. If you find any errors, file a dispute with the credit bureaus.
2. Send a Debt Validation Letter
Under federal law, you have the right to ask CCS to prove the debt is yours. You’ll need to send a debt validation letter within 30 days of first being contacted. If they can’t verify the debt, they must stop trying to collect—and it should come off your credit report.
3. Negotiate a Pay-for-Delete Agreement
If the debt is accurate, you can ask CCS to remove the account in exchange for payment. This is called a pay-for-delete. Not all agencies will agree, but it’s worth trying—especially for smaller balances.
Always get the agreement in writing before sending any money.
4. Work With a Credit Repair Professional
If you’d rather not deal with the back-and-forth yourself, a reputable credit repair company can help. They know how to dispute accounts, send the right letters, and push for removal when possible.
Ready to Clean Up Your Credit Report?
Learn how credit repair professionals can assist you in disputing inaccuracies on your credit report.
Other Names CCS May Use
Credit Collection Services may show up on your credit report under different aliases. Watch out for entries like:
- CCS Collections
- CCSNotice.com
- CCS USA
- The CCS Companies
- Credit Collection Svcs
- Credit Control Services
- CCSPay
Regardless of the name, it’s the same agency trying to collect a debt.
Should You Contact or Pay CCS?
Not right away. Before you call or make a payment, confirm that the debt is real and reported accurately. Making a payment can restart the statute of limitations in some states, which may give them more time to sue you.
If the debt is valid, and you’re ready to resolve it, you can try a pay-for-delete or work with a professional to handle the negotiation.
Can CCS Sue You or Garnish Your Wages?
Yes, they can sue you—but only after filing a lawsuit and getting a court judgment. If they win, they might 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 debt collectors will attempt calls and letters for months before going to court.
Complaints Against Credit Collection Services
CCS has received hundreds of complaints with the Better Business Bureau and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Some of the most common issues include:
- Reporting debts that weren’t owed
- Failing to mark a debt as disputed
- Charging more than the agreed amount
- General harassment or aggressive communication
Former employees have also spoken out, calling the company’s practices unethical or overly aggressive.
Your Rights When Dealing With CCS
Debt collectors must follow strict rules under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). You have important rights, including:
- Disputing inaccurate information: CCS cannot report false or incomplete data about you.
- Requesting proof of the debt: You can demand validation of any debt they’re trying to collect.
- Being treated respectfully: Harassment, threats, or abusive language are illegal.
- Receiving proper notice: They must identify themselves as a debt collector and notify you in writing.
- Protection from false threats: They can’t claim you’ll be arrested or jailed for unpaid debt.
Contact Information for Credit Collection Services
Mailing Address:
Credit Collection Services
725 Canton Street
Norwood, MA 02062-2679
Phone Numbers:
(617) 965-2000
(877) 870-1000
Let Credit Saint Help You Remove CCS From Your Credit Report
If you’re tired of seeing CCS collections drag down your credit—or you’re not sure what to do next—Credit Saint can help.
Their team has over 15 years of experience removing inaccurate and outdated items from credit reports, including collection accounts from agencies like Credit Collection Services. They even offer a 90-day money-back guarantee for added peace of mind.
Call (855) 281-1510 or visit their website to get your free consultation and see how they can help you get back on track.
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.
