Portfolio Recovery Associates — Who They Are and What They Can (and Cannot) Do
Portfolio Recovery Associates (PRA) is one of the largest debt buyers in the United States. Unlike original creditors, PRA purchases defaulted debt portfolios — often for pennies on the dollar — and then attempts to collect the full balance from consumers.
If you are receiving calls from 855-267-1173, 800-695-7444, or 303-255-5354, these numbers may be associated with Portfolio Recovery Associates or an agency working on their behalf.
As a debt collector, PRA is fully subject to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA).
Phone Numbers Linked to Portfolio Recovery Associates
- (855) 267-1173 / 855-267-1173
- (800) 695-7444
- (303) 255-5354
Why Portfolio Recovery Associates Calls Can Feel Like Harassment
PRA has been the subject of numerous consumer complaints and regulatory actions, including a 2015 enforcement action by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) resulting in a significant settlement. Common issues include:
- Collecting on debts past the statute of limitations without disclosing this
- Filing lawsuits on time-barred debts
- Calling repeatedly or at inconvenient times
- Failing to properly validate debts
- Re-aging debts on credit reports
Key Rights When Dealing With Portfolio Recovery Associates
1. Debt Validation
When PRA first contacts you, they must send a written validation notice within 5 days. You then have 30 days to dispute the debt or request verification. During this period, they must cease collection activity until they provide validation.
2. Statute of Limitations
Because PRA often collects on old debts, the debt may be "time-barred" — meaning they cannot legally sue you to collect. Making any payment or acknowledging the debt in writing could potentially restart the clock in some states. Consult a licensed attorney before taking action on an old debt.
3. Cease Communication
You have the right to send a written cease and desist letter demanding that PRA stop all contact. Once received, they can only contact you to confirm receipt, inform you of specific legal action, or invoke a specified remedy.
4. FDCPA Remedies
If Portfolio Recovery Associates violates the FDCPA, you may be entitled to:
- Up to $1,000 in statutory damages per lawsuit
- Actual damages (financial harm you suffered)
- Attorney's fees and court costs
Steps to Protect Yourself
- 1. Never confirm or pay a debt without first receiving written validation.
- 2. Check the statute of limitations in your state for the type of debt.
- 3. Keep records of every call — date, time, number, name, and what was said.
- 4. Send all correspondence via certified mail with return receipt requested.
- 5. File a complaint with the CFPB at consumerfinance.gov/complaint if violations occur.
- 6. Speak with a consumer protection attorney — FDCPA cases often involve no out-of-pocket cost to the consumer.
Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. StopDebtCallsNow.com is not a law firm. Phone number associations are based on consumer reports and may change. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.