If you've been contacted by an established debt collection agency like the Moorcroft Group, it's important to not panic. We understand that it can be quite a difficult situation to find yourself in, but getting familiar with the powers they have is the first necessary step.

The good news is that debt collection companies typically don't have that much power. Their remit usually only extends as far as your original creditors, although this may differ slightly depending on the form of debt they're collecting. Powers aside, refusing to write off your debt will have an impact on your credit file, so it's still a good idea to try and pay it off in a timely fashion.

If your creditors have sold a debt to Moorcroft, they have the right to contact you in order to try and collect the debt. They may send you a debt collection letter or contact you via phone. In some situations, Moorcroft may come to your home, but they'll usually try and contact you first.

You don't have to pay your debt with Moorcroft if you don't want to - if they arrive at your home, you don't have to let them in. The only situation in which this is slightly different is if your debt is the result of a county court judgement. However, bailiffs will usually be involved in these instances.

Debt collection agencies like Moorcroft Debt Recovery have a code of conduct that they must abide by. 

If a debt collector arrives at your property or sends you a debt collection letter, it can be a very scary prospect. It's quite common for people to associate debt collection agencies like Moorcroft Debt Recovery with bailiffs, but they're completely different entities.

Debt collectors can enter your home, but only if you allow them in. They're not allowed to act aggressively or try to force their way in - if they do attempt this, you should report them. 

They're also not allowed to attend your workplace or contact you at another property other than your home residence. They cannot ask anyone else in your family to pay your debt.

Moorcroft agents are also not allowed to seize goods - they must only request monetary payments.

What Should You Do If the Moorcroft Group Attends Your Property?

If a debt collection company like Moorcroft Debt Recovery does attend your home, it's important to try and stay calm, no matter how worrying the situation may be.

Remember that you don't need to let them in or pay them outright if you don't want to. You can choose to speak to them through the door instead, or ask them to communicate via other means.

If you do decide to deal with them, you should be honest and clear, making them aware of what you can and can't afford. It may be worthwhile creating a realistic payment plan in advance of a visit, so you can go through it with them.

Before deciding to deal with a debt collection agency, you should check that the agent is a legitimate debt collector. Their field agents should carry ID on them at all times, as well as proof that they have been commissioned to collect your debt. If they don't have this, you should refuse to deal with them.

Can Moorcroft Debt Recovery Seize Your Goods?

It's a common misconception that debt collectors have the power to seize your goods. However, this is something that would come under the remit of a bailiff instead.

Debt collection agents can only take payment towards your debt in the form of money. Whilst you may be able to pay in cash, the preferred payment type will usually be via a card transaction or bank transfer. It's preferable to try and use a debit card to pay - by using a credit card, you'll only be transferring the debt elsewhere.

If you do decide to make a payment to Moorcroft, you should ensure you get a receipt with the date and timestamp written on it. 

If Moorcroft's agents do attempt to take your goods or try to act as a bailiff, you should report them as this is illegal.

If you're unable to make the full payment at once, debt collection agencies have a duty to provide debt solutions and give advice on how to write off your debt. If you find that you can’t pay, they may ask to set up a repayment plan. However, there may be extra fees involved if you decide to do this.

If you've been contacted by a member of the Moorcroft Group, there's no need to fear. Our debt consultants are here to help you through your troubles and talk you through the debt solutions available to you.

To find out more about whether an IVA might be right for you, check out our IVA Learning Hub.

And if you think you're ready to get started with your application, fill in our contact form today and we'll get in touch!