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During our recent Research Assistant Peer Group call, we discussed how to assess the accuracy of information obtained from skip tracing vendors. We realized that when an account warrants extra effort, several steps can be taken to verify the information.
If you need to send important documents containing sensitive information directly to a consumer, ensuring the accuracy of the recipient’s address is crucial. One of the best ways to verify an address is to obtain a confirmed email from the consumer or client. However, this is not always possible, and in some cases, email may not be an option. When mailing documents using an address obtained from a skip trace vendor, additional verification steps can help confirm its accuracy.
Utilize Manual Skip Tracing Searches
If your skip source allows manual searches in addition to batch searches, you can check consumer information using a Social Security number, name, address, or phone number. Performing a reverse address search can reveal past and present residents along with their occupancy dates. If the consumer currently resides at the address, this provides strong verification. If the consumer lived there at the time of the contract or service date but has since moved, you may attempt to contact current residents for location information, as permitted under the FDCPA. Additionally, running a Social Security number search can help identify alternative names the consumer may use, which can be useful in cases of identity theft.
Check County Appraisal Records
Another verification method is consulting county appraisal records. Many counties provide online databases, or you can call the appraiser’s office to confirm property ownership. If the consumer owns the property, the address is likely valid. If someone else owns it, they may be a relative or landlord who can provide location information. You can also check for any properties owned by the consumer under their name, as this information is public record.
Verify with the Postal Service
The local post office may confirm whether an address is a business, residence, vacant lot, etc. They may also inform you if an apartment or lot number is required for proper delivery. If necessary, you can contact the building superintendent or property manager to obtain the correct unit number.
Send a Certified Letter
If the account is worth the extra effort and expense, sending a certified letter with return receipt requested can be an effective verification method. If the consumer signs for it, the address is confirmed. If someone else signs, they may be a point of contact who can provide the consumer’s location information.
Review Past Account Information
Examining past account history can help determine if an address is valid. If an address obtained through a skip trace vendor was previously used and resulted in returned mail, it is likely outdated.
Skip tracing is not just about finding information, it’s about knowing how to use it effectively. Disclosing private information to unauthorized parties poses a risk in any type of collections work. When an account is worth the extra effort, taking additional verification steps helps mitigate risks. However, if the time, cost, or risk outweighs the benefits, it may be best to let the account go. This is an internal decision that should align with your organization’s risk management strategy.
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