How do I send a cease-and-desist letter to a debt collector?

Last updated: 2026-07-11 · Educational content; not legal advice.

Short answer

Put it in writing and keep proof of sending. Address it to the lender's official email and registered office (copy the collection agency too), state plainly which of their acts violate SEC Memorandum Circular 18 (2019) — for example contacting your contacts, calling before 6:00 a.m. or after 10:00 p.m., threats, or obscene language — and demand that they (1) stop contacting third parties, (2) communicate only in writing at reasonable hours, and (3) provide an itemized Statement of Account (your right under RA 3765, Truth in Lending Act). A cease-and-desist demand is not an admission that you owe the money and does not waive any of your defenses; it creates the paper trail an SEC or NPC complaint is built on. LabanPH generates the letter for free.

Primary sources

Frequently asked

Does sending it mean I admit the debt or give up on disputing the amount?

No. You can demand they stop harassing you and simultaneously dispute or ask them to prove the balance (see /answer/can-i-demand-that-a-debt-collector-prove-what-i-owe). State that the letter is 'without prejudice' to your defenses.

How do I prove I sent it?

Send by email (keep the sent copy) and, ideally, by registered mail or courier to the registered office, keeping the receipt. Screenshots of the email and delivery proof become evidence for your SEC/NPC filing.

What if they ignore it and keep harassing me?

Continued contact after a written demand strengthens your case. File an administrative complaint with the SEC (lending/financing) or BSP (banks/cards), and the NPC if your data or contacts were misused — no lawyer or filing fee required.