NCO Europe
Received a letter or call from NCO Europe? This guide explains who they are, who they collect for, your legal rights, and what to do next.
Who Are NCO Europe?
NCO Europe Limited is a debt collection and customer contact company based in Preston, Lancashire. Founded in 1995, NCO Europe is part of the Alorica group and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA reference 662151). They collect debts on behalf of other companies.
Who Do NCO Europe Collect For?
NCO Europe’s best-known client is American Express - many of their letters relate to Amex credit card accounts. They also collect for telecoms providers and utility companies, and sometimes collect debt portfolios they have purchased.
They may contact you because:
- A company has hired them to collect a debt
- Your account has been passed to them for collection
- They have bought your debt from the original creditor
If you do not recognise the debt, NCO Europe must tell you who the original creditor is and provide proof of the debt if you request it. Use the contact details printed on their letter and always quote your reference number.
Your Legal Rights
NCO Europe Must:
- Tell you who the original creditor is
- Provide proof of the debt if requested
- Treat you fairly under FCA regulations
They Cannot:
- Harass you with excessive calls
- Contact you at unreasonable times
- Discuss your debt with others
- Pretend to be bailiffs
How to Respond
- Don’t ignore it - could escalate
- Verify the debt - request proof
- Check if statute barred - 6 years with no payments or written acknowledgment
- Respond based on your situation
Can NCO Europe Send Bailiffs?
No. They cannot enter your property or seize belongings without a court judgment.
Struggling With Multiple Debts?
Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA) - Possible write-off of qualifying debt after completion. Check if you qualify.
Debt Relief Order - A formal option for England and Wales where qualifying debts may be written off after the DRO period if you meet the criteria.
Debt Management Plan - Reduced monthly payments.
Compare your debt options. Use our free IVA calculator.
Sources checked
- NCO Europe for company background.
- FCA Register for consumer credit authorisation checks.
- Companies House for registered company details.
- GOV.UK debt options for formal debt solution context.
Frequently asked questions
Who does NCO Europe collect for?
NCO Europe's best-known client is American Express - many letters relate to Amex accounts. They also collect for telecoms providers and utility companies, and in some cases collect debt portfolios they have purchased.
Who are NCO Europe?
NCO Europe Limited is a debt collection and customer contact company based in Preston, Lancashire, founded in 1995 and now part of the Alorica group. They are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (reference 662151).
Why are NCO Europe contacting me?
Usually because a company you hold or held an account with has instructed them to collect an unpaid balance, or your account has been passed or sold to them. Their letter should name the original creditor - if it does not, request written proof of the debt before paying.
Can NCO Europe send bailiffs?
No. NCO Europe are debt collectors, not bailiffs, and their agents have no legal power to enter your home or seize belongings. Bailiffs only become involved if a creditor obtains a court judgment that goes unpaid.
What if I cannot afford to pay NCO Europe?
Do not ignore the letters. You can propose an affordable payment arrangement, and if you have multiple unaffordable debts, a formal solution such as an IVA, Debt Relief Order or Debt Management Plan may be more suitable.