Paragon Revenue Group is a debt collection agency that has received mixed reviews from consumers, with common complaints involving aggressive collection tactics and questionable account accuracy. It's important to verify any debts before responding or making payments.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not intend to cast any negative light on Paragon Revenue Group or any company mentioned. All information provided should be independently verified and is not intended as legal or financial advice.
Getting a call from Paragon Revenue Group can make your heart skip a beat. You see the name on your caller ID and wonder: "Who are these people, and what do they want from me?" If you're reading this, chances are you've had some contact with this company and need answers fast.
Paragon Revenue Group is a real debt collection agency that has been operating for years. They purchase old debts from original creditors and then try to collect on those debts. But just because they're legitimate doesn't mean dealing with them is easy. Many people have mixed experiences with this company, and the reviews tell a complicated story.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Paragon Revenue Group reviews. Talking about their business practices, and most importantly, how to protect yourself when dealing with them.
By the end, you'll know exactly what to expect and how to handle any situation that comes up.
But first, let's dive into what makes this company so controversial...
What Is Paragon Revenue Group?
Paragon Revenue Group, often called PRG, is a third-party debt collection agency based in the United States. They specialize in purchasing charged-off debts from original creditors like credit card companies, banks, and other financial institutions. Once they buy these debts (usually for pennies on the dollar), they become the new owner and attempt to collect the full amount from consumers.
The company has been in business for several years and operates across multiple states. They focus primarily on consumer debt collection, including credit cards, personal loans, auto loans, and medical bills. Unlike some fly-by-night collection agencies, Paragon Revenue Group is a registered business with proper licensing in the states where they operate.
However, being legitimate doesn't automatically make them easy to deal with. Many consumers report aggressive collection tactics, frequent phone calls, and confusing paperwork. The company uses various methods to contact debtors, including phone calls, letters, and sometimes even legal action.
What sets PRG apart from other collection agencies is their business model of purchasing debt portfolios in bulk. This means they might be collecting on debts that are several years old, and they may not have complete information about your original account.
But here's where things get interesting…
and potentially problematic for consumers...
Is Paragon Revenue Legit?
Yes, Paragon Revenue Group is a legitimate debt collection agency. They are not a scam in the traditional sense - they're a real company with real employees trying to collect real debts. However, "legitimate" doesn't mean their practices are always fair or that every debt they're trying to collect is valid.
The company is licensed to operate as a debt collector in multiple states and must follow federal laws like the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). They're also required to provide certain information when they contact you about a debt, including validation notices and your rights as a consumer.
You can verify their legitimacy by checking with your state's licensing board for collection agencies. Most states require debt collectors to register and maintain active licenses. Paragon Revenue Group typically maintains these licenses where required.
However, being legitimate comes with some important caveats. Just because they're a real company doesn't mean:
- Every debt they're collecting is accurate
- The amount they claim you owe is correct
- You actually owe the debt at all
- Their collection methods are always appropriate
Many consumers have reported issues with Paragon Revenue Group attempting to collect on debts that were already paid, debts that belonged to someone else, or debts that were beyond the statute of limitations. This is unfortunately common in the debt buying industry.
The real question isn't whether they're legitimate, but whether the specific debt they're trying to collect from you is legitimate...
Related Article: What Can You Do If Carson Smithfield Is Appearing on Your Credit Reports
Is Paragon a Good Company?
This question has a complicated answer that depends largely on your perspective and experience. From a business standpoint, Paragon Revenue Group operates like many other debt collection agencies. They purchase portfolios of charged-off debt and attempt to collect on those accounts to generate profit.
From a consumer perspective, reviews are mixed. Some people report professional interactions and reasonable payment arrangements. Others describe aggressive tactics, frequent calls, and disputes over debt validity. The company's rating with the Better Business Bureau fluctuates, and online reviews span the full spectrum from satisfied to extremely frustrated customers.
Here are some positive aspects reported by consumers:
- They sometimes offer reasonable settlement amounts
- Customer service representatives can be professional
- They provide required legal documentation when requested
- They accept payment plans in some cases
However, negative reviews are also common:
- Frequent phone calls, sometimes multiple times per day
- Attempts to collect on invalid or inaccurate debts
- Difficulty reaching supervisors or managers
- Confusing or incomplete documentation
- Pressure tactics to make immediate payments
The company's approach seems to vary significantly depending on the account, the amount owed, and the individual representatives you deal with. Some consumers report smooth resolution processes, while others describe months of back-and-forth disputes.
Related Content: Stop 800-823-2318 Harassment: Your Rights and How to Fight Back
What's particularly important to understand is that your experience may depend heavily on factors beyond the company's control...
Is PRG a Collection Agency?
Yes, PRG (Paragon Revenue Group) is a collection agency. More specifically, they're a debt buying collection agency, which means they purchase debts from original creditors and then collect on those debts for their own profit.
This is different from collection agencies that work on behalf of creditors for a fee or percentage. When Paragon Revenue Group contacts you, they're not calling on behalf of your original creditor - they ARE the creditor because they purchased your debt.
This distinction matters for several reasons:
- Legal Standing: As the debt owner, they have the legal right to collect the debt and can take legal action if necessary.
- Negotiation Power: Since they purchased the debt for less than face value, they often have more flexibility in settlement negotiations.
- Documentation: They should be able to provide proof that they own your debt, including purchase agreements and account information.
- Responsibility: They're responsible for following all debt collection laws and regulations, just like any other collection agency.
As a collection agency, PRG must provide you with certain information within five days of their first contact. This includes the amount of the debt, the name of the original creditor, and a statement of your right to dispute the debt.
They must also respect your rights under federal and state laws, including your right to request debt validation, your right to dispute the debt, and your right to ask them to stop contacting you.
But here's what many consumers don't realize about dealing with collection agencies like PRG...
Who Does Paragon Revenue Group Collector For?
Paragon Revenue Group is definitely a debt collector. Specifically, they're what's known as a third-party debt collector because they collect debts on behalf of others (or debts they've purchased). This designation is important because it determines which laws apply to their collection activities.
As a third-party debt collector, Paragon Revenue Group must follow the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), which provides important protections for consumers. This federal law restricts when and how debt collectors can contact you, what they can say, and what actions they can take.
The company primarily focuses on purchasing charged-off consumer debts, including:
- Credit card debts
- Personal loans
- Auto loan deficiencies
- Medical bills
- Bank overdrafts
- Retail store credit accounts
When they purchase these debts, they become the new creditor and have the right to collect the full amount (even though they likely paid much less for the debt). This business model is completely legal and very common in the debt collection industry.
However, being a legitimate debt collector doesn't give them unlimited power. They must still follow strict rules about how they contact you, what information they must provide, and what collection methods they can use.
Must Read: What To Do With Debt Collectors Threatening To Sue a 10 Year Old Debt
Understanding your rights when dealing with debt collectors is crucial, but there's one more important classification to understand...
But here's what many consumers don't realize about dealing with collection agencies like PRG...
Common Paragon Revenue Group Reviews and Complaints
Online reviews of Paragon Revenue Group paint a picture that's common in the debt collection industry - some satisfied customers mixed with many frustrated ones. Understanding the most common complaints can help you prepare for your own interactions with the company.
Frequent Phone Calls
One of the most common complaints involves excessive phone calls. Many reviewers report receiving multiple calls per day, sometimes from different representatives asking about the same debt. Some consumers say the calls continue even after they've requested written communication only.
Federal law limits when debt collectors can call (generally between 8 AM and 9 PM in your time zone), but it doesn't limit how many times they can call within those hours. This can make the calling frequency feel overwhelming.
Disputes Over Debt Validity
Many reviews mention disputes over whether the debt is actually owed. Common issues include:
- Debts that were already paid to the original creditor
- Incorrect amounts due to added fees or interest
- Debts that belong to someone else with a similar name
- Debts beyond the statute of limitations
These disputes often drag on for months while consumers try to get proper documentation or proof of the debt's validity.
Documentation Problems
Several reviewers complain about inadequate documentation from Paragon Revenue Group. When consumers request debt validation (which is their legal right), some report receiving incomplete information that doesn't clearly prove the debt's validity or the company's right to collect it.
Settlement and Payment Issues
Reviews about settlement negotiations are mixed. Some consumers report reasonable settlement offers and flexible payment plans. Others describe high-pressure tactics to accept settlement offers immediately or demands for full payment despite financial hardship.
But the most concerning reviews involve what happens when consumers try to resolve their debts...
How Paragon Revenue Group Operates
Understanding how Paragon Revenue Group operates can help you better navigate any interactions with them. Like most debt buying companies, they follow a fairly predictable business model.
Debt Purchase Process
PRG purchases portfolios of charged-off debts from original creditors. These sales typically happen months or years after the original creditor has given up on collecting the debt internally. The purchase price is usually a small fraction of the debt's face value - sometimes as little as 2-5 cents per dollar.
When they buy these debt portfolios, they receive whatever information the original creditor provides. This might include account numbers, balances, payment history, and contact information. However, the quality and completeness of this information can vary significantly.
Initial Contact Methods
After purchasing debt portfolios, PRG typically begins contacting consumers through multiple channels:
- Phone calls to numbers on file
- Letters sent to last known addresses
- Skip tracing to find updated contact information
- Sometimes email or text messages if they have that information
Their initial contact must include specific information required by law, including the debt amount, original creditor name, and your rights as a consumer.
Collection Strategies
PRG uses various collection strategies depending on the debt amount, age, and consumer response:
- Phone negotiations for immediate payment or settlement
- Payment plan arrangements for consumers who can't pay in full
- Legal action threats for larger debts or unresponsive consumers
- Actual lawsuits in some cases, particularly for higher-value debts
The company's approach often escalates over time if initial collection efforts are unsuccessful.
However, consumers have more power in these situations than they might realize...
Your Rights When Dealing with Paragon Revenue Group
When Paragon Revenue Group contacts you about a debt, you have specific legal rights that are protected by federal and state laws. Understanding these rights is crucial for protecting yourself and ensuring fair treatment.
Right to Debt Validation
Within five days of their first contact, PRG must send you a written notice containing:
- The amount of the debt
- The name of the original creditor
- A statement that you have 30 days to dispute the debt
- Information about requesting debt validation
If you request debt validation within 30 days, they must stop collection activities until they provide adequate proof that you owe the debt and that they have the right to collect it.
Right to Dispute the Debt
You can dispute any debt that you don't believe you owe, regardless of the reason. Common grounds for disputes include:
- You never had an account with the original creditor
- The debt was already paid
- The amount is incorrect
- The debt is beyond the statute of limitations
- Identity theft or fraud
When you dispute a debt in writing, PRG must investigate and provide verification before continuing collection efforts.
Communication Rights
You have the right to control how and when PRG contacts you:
- Request that they only contact you in writing
- Specify times when they cannot call you
- Tell them not to contact you at work
- Ask them to stop calling specific phone numbers
These requests must be made in writing to be legally enforceable.
Right to Stop All Contact
Under federal law, you can tell any debt collector to stop contacting you entirely. This request must be made in writing, and after they receive it, they can only contact you to confirm they're stopping collection efforts or to notify you of specific legal actions. According to Consumer finance, every debt collector has some limitations.
But knowing your rights is only the first step - you also need to know how to use them effectively...
How to Handle Contact from Paragon Revenue Group
If Paragon Revenue Group contacts you about a debt, your response can significantly impact the outcome.
Here's a step-by-step approach to protect yourself and resolve the situation appropriately.
Step 1: Don't Panic or Ignore Them
While debt collection calls can be stressful, ignoring them rarely makes the problem go away. If the debt is valid, ignoring it could lead to legal action. If it's not valid, you need to dispute it properly to protect your credit and legal standing.
Step 2: Request Information in Writing
If they call you, ask them to send all information about the debt in writing. Don't provide any personal information or confirm any details about the debt during the initial call. Simply say, "Please send me written information about this debt, including validation documents."
Step 3: Verify the Debt
Once you receive written information, carefully review it. Check whether:
- You recognize the original creditor
- The account numbers match your records
- The debt amount seems correct
- The dates align with your memory of the account
Step 4: Decide on Your Response
Based on your review, you have several options:
- If you believe the debt is valid and you can pay it, contact them to arrange payment
- If you can't pay the full amount, negotiate a settlement or payment plan
- If you dispute the debt's validity, send a written dispute letter
- If you don't want them to contact you, send a cease communication letter
Step 5: Document Everything
Keep detailed records of all communications with PRG, including:
- Dates and times of phone calls
- Names of representatives you spoke with
- Copies of all letters sent and received
- Records of any payments made
This documentation will be crucial if disputes arise or if you need to file complaints about their collection practices.
But what if the debt is valid and you need to work out a payment arrangement?...
Negotiating with Paragon Revenue Group
If you determine that the debt is valid and you need to work out a payment arrangement, negotiating with Paragon Revenue Group requires strategy and patience. Since they purchased your debt for a fraction of its face value, they often have room to negotiate.
Settlement Negotiations
PRG frequently accepts settlement offers for less than the full debt amount. Settlement percentages can vary widely based on:
- The age of the debt
- The original debt amount
- Your payment history with the original creditor
- Your current financial situation
- How long they've been trying to collect
Common settlement ranges are anywhere from 25% to 70% of the original debt amount. However, you should never accept the first settlement offer they make. Most collection agencies expect some back-and-forth negotiation.
Payment Plan Options
If you can't afford a lump-sum settlement, PRG sometimes accepts payment plans. When negotiating payment arrangements:
- Be realistic about what you can afford monthly
- Get all payment terms in writing before making any payments
- Understand whether partial payments restart the statute of limitations
- Clarify what happens if you miss a payment
Tax Implications
Any forgiven debt amount over $600 may be reported to the IRS as taxable income. If you settle a debt for less than the full amount, you might receive a 1099-C form at tax time. Plan for this potential tax liability when negotiating settlements.
Getting Agreements in Writing
Never rely on verbal agreements with debt collectors. Any settlement or payment arrangement should be documented in writing before you make any payments. This written agreement should specify:
- The total amount you'll pay
- Payment schedule and due dates
- What happens when you complete the payments
- Whether they'll report the settlement to credit bureaus
However, even successful negotiations can have unexpected consequences...
Impact on Your Credit Report
Dealing with Paragon Revenue Group can affect your credit report in several ways, and understanding these implications is crucial for making informed decisions about how to handle their collection efforts.
Initial Credit Impact
If PRG purchased your debt, it likely means the original creditor already charged it off, which would have significantly impacted your credit score. The debt may appear on your credit report as:
- A charge-off from the original creditor
- A collection account from Paragon Revenue Group
- Both accounts (which is problematic and should be disputed)
Collection Account Reporting
When PRG reports your debt to credit bureaus, it typically appears as a collection account. This can lower your credit score by 50-100 points or more, depending on your overall credit profile. Collection accounts remain on your credit report for seven years from the date of first delinquency with the original creditor.
Settlement Impact
If you settle the debt for less than the full amount, PRG may report it as "settled for less than full balance" or "paid settlement." While this is better than an unpaid collection, it's still negative information that affects your credit score.
Payment in Full Impact
Paying the debt in full should result in the collection account being updated to show a zero balance and "paid" status. However, the collection account itself typically remains on your credit report for the full seven-year period.
Credit Repair Considerations
After resolving the debt, you may want to consider credit repair strategies:
- Disputing inaccurate information on your credit reports
- Requesting pay-for-delete agreements (though PRG may not agree to this)
- Working to improve other aspects of your credit profile
- Monitoring your credit reports to ensure accurate reporting
But what happens if you believe PRG is violating debt collection laws?...
What to Do If You're Being Harassed
If Paragon Revenue Group's collection practices cross the line into harassment or violate debt collection laws, you have several options for recourse. Recognizing improper behavior and knowing how to respond is essential for protecting yourself.
Signs of Harassment or Illegal Practices
Debt collection harassment can include:
- Calling before 8 AM or after 9 PM in your time zone
- Calling repeatedly with intent to annoy or harass
- Using obscene or profane language
- Threatening violence or illegal actions
- Misrepresenting the amount or legal status of the debt
- Contacting you at work after being told your employer prohibits such calls
- Discussing your debt with unauthorized third parties
- Continuing to contact you after receiving a written cease communication request
Documenting Violations
If you believe PRG is violating debt collection laws:
- Keep detailed records of all inappropriate contacts
- Record phone calls if legal in your state
- Save all voicemails and written communications
- Note dates, times, and names of representatives
- Document any threats or misleading statements
Filing Complaints
You can file complaints about improper debt collection practices with:
- The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
- Your state attorney general's office
- The Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
- Your state's licensing board for collection agencies
These complaints can result in investigations and penalties against the collection agency.
Legal Action Options
In cases of serious violations, you may be able to sue PRG under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Successful FDCPA lawsuits can result in:
- Damages up to $1,000 per violation
- Actual damages for any harm caused
- Attorney fees paid by the collection agency
- Injunctive relief to stop improper practices
However, you should consult with a consumer attorney who specializes in debt collection cases to evaluate your situation.
But sometimes the best defense is a good offense - let's talk about proactive strategies...
Preventing Future Issues with Debt Collectors
While dealing with Paragon Revenue Group can be stressful, you can take steps to prevent similar situations in the future and better manage any debt collection issues that arise.
Stay Informed About Your Debts
- Regularly check your credit reports from all three major bureaus
- Keep records of all debts, payments, and account closures
- Monitor accounts even after they're closed or paid off
- Set up credit monitoring alerts for new collection accounts
Communicate with Original Creditors
If you're having trouble paying bills:
- Contact creditors before accounts become delinquent
- Explore hardship programs or payment modifications
- Get any payment arrangements in writing
- Don't ignore collection notices from original creditors
Understand Statute of Limitations
Each state has a statute of limitations for collecting different types of debts. After this period expires, creditors and collectors cannot successfully sue you for the debt (though they can still attempt to collect). However, making payments or acknowledging the debt in writing can restart this time period.
Know When to Seek Professional Help
Consider consulting with professionals when:
- You're overwhelmed by multiple collection accounts
- You're facing potential lawsuits from creditors
- You're considering bankruptcy as an option
- You need help disputing inaccurate information on credit reports
Professional help might include credit counselors, consumer attorneys, or debt settlement companies (though be careful with debt settlement companies, as many are scams).
Now, let's address some frequently asked questions about Paragon Revenue Group...
Frequently Asked Questions About Paragon Revenue Group
Can Paragon Revenue Group Sue Me?
Yes, as the owner of your debt, PRG can file a lawsuit against you if you don't pay. However, they must follow proper legal procedures, including serving you with court documents and proving they own the debt. Not all collection agencies pursue lawsuits, as legal action is expensive and time-consuming.
How Long Can Paragon Revenue Group Collect on a Debt?
The statute of limitations for debt collection varies by state and debt type, typically ranging from 3-6 years. However, this doesn't mean they have to stop trying to collect - it just means they can't successfully sue you after the statute expires. The debt can remain on your credit report for seven years regardless of the statute of limitations.
Will Paying Paragon Revenue Group Remove the Collection from My Credit Report?
Not necessarily. Paying the debt will update the account to show a zero balance, but the collection account typically remains on your credit report for seven years. Some collectors agree to "pay for delete" arrangements, but this isn't guaranteed and PRG may not offer this option.
What If I Don't Remember This Debt?
If you don't remember the debt, request debt validation from PRG. They must provide proof that you owe the debt and that they have the right to collect it. Don't assume the debt is invalid just because you don't remember it - some debts are very old or may have been sold multiple times.
Can I Negotiate with Paragon Revenue Group?
Yes, most debt collectors, including PRG, are willing to negotiate settlement amounts or payment plans. Since they purchased the debt for less than face value, they often have flexibility in negotiations. Always get any agreement in writing before making payments.
But there's one more crucial aspect we need to cover...
Red Flags and Scam Prevention
While Paragon Revenue Group is a legitimate collection agency, the debt collection industry attracts scammers who impersonate real companies. Here's how to protect yourself from debt collection scams and verify you're dealing with the real PRG.
Common Debt Collection Scams
Scammers often:
- Demand immediate payment by wire transfer, prepaid cards, or cryptocurrency
- Threaten immediate arrest or legal action
- Refuse to provide written information about the debt
- Ask for personal information like Social Security numbers or bank account details
- Use high-pressure tactics to force immediate payment
- Claim you'll be arrested if you don't pay immediately
Verifying Paragon Revenue Group's Legitimacy
To verify you're dealing with the real PRG:
- Ask for their mailing address and look it up online
- Request written validation of the debt
- Check if they're licensed in your state
- Verify their contact information matches official records
- Don't provide personal information until you've verified their legitimacy
Protecting Yourself from Scams
- Never give personal or financial information to unsolicited callers
- Don't make payments until you've verified the debt's validity
- Be suspicious of high-pressure tactics or threats
- Take time to research the company before responding
- When in doubt, hang up and call back using a number you've independently verified
Reporting Suspected Scams
If you suspect someone is impersonating PRG or running a debt collection scam:
- Report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
- File a complaint with your state attorney general
- Report it to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
- Contact local law enforcement if threats were made
The consequences of falling for debt collection scams can be severe, including identity theft and financial loss.
Final Verdict: Is Paragon Revenue Group Legit?
After examining all available information, Paragon Revenue Group appears to be a legitimate debt collection agency operating within the bounds of federal and state laws. They are licensed where required, follow basic debt collection procedures, and provide the documentation required by law.
However, "legitimate" doesn't mean "perfect" or "easy to deal with." Like many debt collection agencies, PRG has received mixed reviews from consumers. Some people report professional interactions and reasonable resolutions, while others describe aggressive tactics and disputes over debt validity.
The key takeaways about Paragon Revenue Group are:
- They Are Legitimate: PRG is a real debt collection agency, not a scam operation. They purchase and collect on legitimate consumer debts.
- Your Experience May Vary: Reviews suggest that interactions with PRG can range from professional to frustrating, depending on various factors including the specific debt, representatives involved, and your approach to handling the situation.
- You Have Rights: Regardless of whether you owe the debt, you have legal rights that PRG must respect. Understanding and exercising these rights is crucial for protecting yourself.
- Documentation Is Key: Whether you're disputing a debt, negotiating a settlement, or filing a complaint, maintaining detailed records of all interactions is essential.
- Professional Help May Be Needed: If you're dealing with multiple collection accounts, facing potential lawsuits, or feeling overwhelmed by the process, consulting with a consumer attorney or credit counselor can be valuable.
The most important advice for anyone dealing with Paragon Revenue Group is to stay informed, document everything, and never ignore collection attempts. Whether the debt is valid or not, ignoring the situation rarely makes it go away and can make resolution more difficult.
If you're currently dealing with PRG or any other debt collector, remember that you have options and rights. Take the time to understand your situation, verify any debts they claim you owe, and respond appropriately based on your circumstances and financial situation.
The debt collection industry can be intimidating, but with the right knowledge and approach, you can navigate these challenges and work toward a resolution that protects your financial future.