How to Buy Debt for Pennies on the Dollar

1). Start your own collection agency. All you need to do is to incorporate your company and have access to basic office supplies and amenities. Most debt collection is done by mail and telephone. You should review the Federal Trade Commission's Fair Debt Collection Practices Act before starting into business so that you don't run afoul of the law and expose yourself to potential damages.
2). Contact other collection agencies, banks and companies that specialize in selling distressed debt. It's often sensible to specialize in a particular form of debt to increase your chances of successful collection and build up your personal network with businesses that can provide you with a steady supply of debt at a low cost. For example, collecting on delinquent auto loans is different from collecting on unsecured debts arising from credit cards and personal loans.
3). Make regular contact with delinquent debtors while remaining cognizant of the details of each debt case. If a debt has been delinquent for a number of years, it may be more realistic to offer a settlement that will allow you to turn a profit. If the debt is relatively recent and the individual has a regular income, it may be prudent to work out a more extensive payment plan. Many debts can be purchased for well below 3% of the total outstanding value of the loan, so if you can extract almost any payment, you can turn a profit.