You know it's valid simply by remembering taking out a loan from the company the bill collector discuss with you ,additionally they usually will have the information you provided when you took out the loan such as social security # personal references you provided and much more including the bank you used to secure the loan.Usually you don't have the money there when you promised and the lender ends up not getting there money back and owing a bounced check fee as well. This is why they are calling you to refresh your memory and mabee setup a payment plan to keep you honest.I had done some business with them and I think they are nice people and are professional as well. I was having hard times and Richard Ross helped me out and even sent me a thank you letter in the mail.