Debt collectors may not be your best friends, but they don't have to be your worst enemies either. Avoid undue struggle with collection agencies. Here are some tips.

1) Understand what they can and can't do. They can't threaten, lie or invade your privacy. They must follow specific rules. You can report an agency that you think is out of line to the Federal Trade Commission and your state attorney general.

2) If you don't owe it, or if it's more than you owe, dispute it in writing. Within five days of first contacting you, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act requires a debt collector to notify you of your right to validate the debt. You should request verification within 30 days of receiving your first notice. Send your request by certified mail.

3) Save everything, including all correspondence and payment records.

4) Talk to them when you're ready. If you're not prepared, ask them to call you back.

Source: Bills.com.