If Valentine & Kebartas just showed up on your credit report, you’re probably wondering why—and more importantly, how to get rid of it. Here’s what you need to know.
Who Is Valentine & Kebartas?
Valentine & Kebartas, LLC (often abbreviated as V&K) is a third-party debt collection agency based in Lawrence, Massachusetts. If their name appears on your credit report, it means they’re trying to collect a debt that was either placed with them by a creditor or purchased from another collection agency.
What Types of Debts Do They Collect?
Valentine & Kebartas collects debts from a wide mix of industries, including:
- Credit card issuers
- Cable and utility companies
- Government agencies
- Medical providers
- Retailers
- Colleges and universities
- Insurance companies
- Telecom providers
- Commercial lenders
They don’t just focus on one type of account—if you’ve fallen behind in almost any category, they may be the ones calling.
Is Valentine & Kebartas a Scam?
No, Valentine & Kebartas is a legitimate debt collection company. They’re licensed to collect on behalf of creditors and comply with federal and state laws. That said, mistakes do happen. Before paying anything, always confirm that the debt is yours and that the information they’re reporting is accurate.
How to Remove Valentine & Kebartas From Your Credit Report
A collections account can damage your credit score for up to seven years—even if you pay it. That’s why it’s worth trying to remove it. Here are a few ways to do that:
1. Dispute Any Inaccurate Information
Start by checking your credit reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. If the account is reporting incorrect information—like the wrong balance, dates, or even identity errors—you can dispute it with the credit bureaus.
2. Request Debt Validation
Send Valentine & Kebartas a debt validation letter asking them to prove the debt is yours and the amount is correct. They’re required by law to respond within 30 days. If they can’t validate it, they must stop reporting the account.
3. Try a Pay-for-Delete Agreement
If the debt is accurate, and you’re willing to pay, ask them to agree—in writing—to remove the account from your credit report once the payment is made. This isn’t guaranteed to work, but some collectors will agree to it if you ask directly.
4. Work With a Credit Repair Company
If you’d rather not handle the back-and-forth yourself, a reputable credit repair company can take care of the disputes and negotiations for you. They deal with companies like Valentine & Kebartas every day and often know what gets results.
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 Valentine & Kebartas?
Before paying anything, make sure:
- The debt is valid and hasn’t passed your state’s statute of limitations
- The balance and account details are accurate
- You understand the potential impact on your credit
Keep in mind that making a payment can restart the clock on how long the debt stays active in collections or how long you can be sued. If the debt is older, it may make sense to negotiate or wait it out instead of paying right away.
Can Valentine & Kebartas Sue You or Garnish Your Wages?
Yes, like most debt collectors, they have the legal right to sue you. If they win a judgment in court, they may be able to garnish your wages or take money from your bank account, depending on your state’s laws. However, lawsuits are usually a last resort. Collectors typically try to contact you multiple times before heading to court.
What to Do If Valentine & Kebartas Is Harassing You
Valentine & Kebartas has received complaints with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and the Better Business Bureau (BBB), mostly involving inaccurate reporting and aggressive tactics. If you’re experiencing repeated calls, threats, or false information, you have rights.
Know Your Rights Under Federal Law
You’re protected by two major laws:
- Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) – Gives you the right to dispute inaccurate information on your credit report
- Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) – Prohibits harassment, threats, and dishonest practices by debt collectors
Under these laws, Valentine & Kebartas:
- Cannot report false or incomplete information
- Must validate the debt if you request it in writing
- Cannot threaten, harass, or deceive you
- Must clearly identify themselves as a debt collector in all communications
- Cannot threaten arrest or jail for unpaid debts
Contact Information for Valentine & Kebartas
Here’s how to reach them—if you decide to:
Valentine & Kebartas, LLC
15 Union Street, Suite 202
Lawrence, MA 01840
Phone: (978) 975-0799
A Faster Way to Remove Valentine & Kebartas
Dealing with collections can be exhausting—but you don’t have to do it alone. Many people turn to credit repair services for help challenging inaccurate accounts and working toward removal.
Credit Saint is a trusted option with over 15 years of experience. They’ve helped thousands clean up their credit reports and know how to handle agencies like Valentine & Kebartas. Plus, they offer a 90-day money-back guarantee if you’re not satisfied.
Call (855) 281-1510 or visit their website to schedule your free consultation.
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.
