When you receive a letter or phone call from Syncom, you might be wondering who this company is and what they want. Synergetic Communication Inc., commonly known as Syncom or SynCom, is a full-service debt collection agency that has been operating for nearly three decades. Whether you're a business considering their services or a consumer dealing with a collection account, understanding who Syncom is and how they operate can help you navigate the situation effectively.
The Foundation and History of Syncom
Synergetic Communication Inc. was founded in January 1996 and incorporated the following month on February 26, 1996. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, the company has grown from a regional collection agency to a nationwide operation serving clients across all 50 states and Puerto Rico.
Over its 28-plus years of operation, Syncom has established itself as a specialized debt collection agency focusing primarily on large-balance accounts. The company's founders built the business on principles of professional communication and compliance, developing what they call a Positive Consumer Experience (PCE) program designed to handle collections with a more consultative approach than many traditional agencies.
The executive team at Syncom brings over 125 years of combined experience across various sectors of the collection industry, with particular expertise in auto finance and mortgage collections. This depth of experience has allowed the company to expand beyond its original focus areas into serving clients across multiple industries.
Where Syncom Operates
Synergetic Communication maintains its primary headquarters in Houston, Texas, with the main office located at 5450 NW Central Drive, Suite 220, Houston, TX 77092. However, the company's operational reach extends far beyond this single location.
Syncom holds collection licenses and bonds in all 50 states where such licensing is required, allowing them to pursue debt collection nationwide. The company has additional office locations to support their national operations, including a location at 750 2nd Street NE, Suite 104, Hopkins, MN 55343, and an office at 2700 E. Seltice Way, Suite 4, Post Falls, ID 83854.
This multi-state presence allows Syncom to maintain local connections while serving clients throughout the United States and Puerto Rico. The company's licensing in all states demonstrates their commitment to regulatory compliance and their capability to handle collections regardless of where debtors are located.
How to Contact Syncom
If you need to reach Synergetic Communication regarding an account, complaint, or inquiry, several contact methods are available:
Primary Phone Numbers:
Toll-Free: 800-580-8615
Direct Houston Office: 713-460-3114
Quality Team (Concerns): 800-282-3214
Main Office Address:
Synergetic Communication Inc.
5450 NW Central Drive, Suite 220
Houston, TX 77092-2061
Website:
www.syncomcorp.net
Online Contact:
Syncom provides an online contact form through their website for consumers who prefer written communication. The company emphasizes that they strive to handle every communication in the most professional and expedient manner possible.
Business Hours:
Standard business hours apply for phone contact, though specific hours are not publicly listed. Consumers should expect collection calls during permissible hours under federal law, which means no calls before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m. in the consumer's time zone.
It's important to note that Synergetic Communication is a third-party debt collector, and all communications from them constitute an attempt to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for that purpose, as required to be disclosed under federal law.
Services Offered by Syncom
Synergetic Communication provides comprehensive accounts receivable management and debt collection services designed to help businesses recover outstanding balances while maintaining positive customer relationships.
Third-Party Debt Collection
The core of Syncom's business is third-party debt collection, where they work on behalf of creditors to recover unpaid debts. The company specializes in large-balance portfolios, making them particularly attractive to lenders and businesses dealing with significant outstanding amounts.
Syncom's collection process includes initial contact letters and phone calls to debtors, skip tracing services to locate consumers who have moved, credit reporting to the three major bureaus, negotiation of payment arrangements and settlements, and legal action when necessary and authorized by clients.
Industry-Specific Collection Services
Syncom has developed particular expertise in several key industries. Historically, the company focused heavily on auto finance collections, recovering deficiency balances after vehicle repossession. They also handle mortgage collections, including delinquent home loans and post-foreclosure deficiencies.
Beyond these historical strengths, Syncom now serves utility companies collecting on unpaid electric, gas, water, and telecommunications bills, government agencies at federal, state, and local levels, healthcare providers including hospitals and medical practices, retail businesses dealing with unpaid accounts, and financial services companies including banks and credit unions.
The Positive Consumer Experience (PCE) Program
One of Syncom's distinguishing features is their PCE program, which they describe as being built on the principle of "Assume a Positive Intent" in all communications. This approach differs from traditional aggressive collection tactics by taking a more consultative stance.
Through the PCE program, Syncom representatives are trained to analyze each consumer's individual situation, offer realistic payment solutions based on ability to pay, focus on compliance and professional communication, and work toward mutually beneficial resolutions rather than simply demanding immediate payment.
The company states that this approach not only helps maximize recovery rates but also protects and enhances their clients' reputations with customers. For businesses that value long-term customer relationships, this consultative approach can be preferable to more aggressive collection tactics that might permanently damage those relationships.
First and Third-Party Collections
In addition to traditional third-party collection services where Syncom collects on behalf of clients, the company also offers first-party collection services. This means Syncom can conduct early-stage collection efforts while still appearing to come from the original creditor, preserving the customer relationship during the initial collection phase.
This dual capability allows clients to maintain a seamless collection continuum from the first missed payment through more intensive third-party efforts if needed.
Understanding Syncom's Client Goals
According to the company's stated mission, Synergetic Communication aims to help clients achieve three primary objectives: reduce operating expenses by outsourcing collection efforts, increase cash flow through more effective debt recovery, and improve customer experience through professional, compliant collection practices.
This three-pronged approach recognizes that modern businesses need collection partners who understand that recovered revenue is only valuable if it doesn't come at the cost of regulatory violations or damaged customer relationships. Syncom positions itself as a partner that balances effective recovery with brand protection.
Consumer Rights When Dealing With Syncom
When Synergetic Communication contacts you about a debt, you have significant protections under federal law. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act establishes clear boundaries for what collection agencies can and cannot do during the collection process.
Understanding what debt collectors can and cannot do is essential for protecting yourself. Under the FDCPA, Syncom cannot call before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m. in your time zone, contact you at work if you've informed them your employer prohibits such calls, use threatening, abusive, or obscene language, falsely represent the amount of debt or their authority, discuss your debt with third parties like family members or neighbors, or continue contacting you after you send a written cease communication request.
You have the right to request debt validation within 30 days of first contact, requiring Syncom to provide proof that the debt is legitimate, you actually owe it, and they have legal authority to collect it. You also have the right to dispute the debt if you believe it's incorrect or doesn't belong to you.
The Impact on Your Credit Report
When Syncom reports a collection account to credit bureaus, it can significantly damage your credit score. Collection accounts are major negative marks that signal to lenders you've failed to pay a debt as agreed.
The collection can remain on your credit report for up to seven years from the date of first delinquency with the original creditor, even if you later pay the debt. This is why addressing collection accounts promptly is so important. Understanding what happens when debt goes to collections can help you prepare for the consequences and take appropriate action to minimize long-term damage.
Company Reputation and Consumer Feedback
Synergetic Communication presents a mixed picture when it comes to consumer feedback and ratings. The Better Business Bureau recently accredited Syncom in February 2024 and currently gives the company an A+ rating, suggesting improved business practices and commitment to BBB standards.
However, consumer complaint data tells a different story. The BBB has recorded 126 customer complaints against Synergetic Communication over a three-year period, while the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau lists 170 consumer complaints. Many of these complaints allege that Syncom contacted consumers regarding debts they didn't owe or debts that couldn't be properly validated.
On Google Reviews, Synergetic Communication holds a low rating of 1.3 stars, with numerous consumers reporting negative experiences. Common complaints include allegations that representatives failed to clearly identify themselves as debt collectors, aggressive or harassing communication tactics, difficulty obtaining debt validation, and challenges getting the company to respond to disputes.
From a business client perspective, some companies report positive experiences with Syncom's collection services, praising their recovery rates and professionalism. However, the volume of consumer complaints suggests that experiences vary widely depending on individual circumstances and which collectors handle specific accounts.
Legal Compliance and Regulatory Status
Syncom operates under the requirements of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act and other federal and state consumer protection laws. According to court records, the company has faced at least 11 civil litigation cases, including class action lawsuits alleging FDCPA violations.
One notable case filed in 2016 alleged that Syncom sent non-compliant collection letters that could mislead unsophisticated consumers because they failed to include required disclosures. While such lawsuits don't necessarily prove wrongdoing (they may be settled without admission of liability), they do indicate that Syncom, like many collection agencies, faces ongoing scrutiny regarding compliance with consumer protection laws.
The company's recent BBB accreditation and stated commitment to compliance suggest efforts to improve practices and maintain regulatory standards. However, consumers should remain vigilant about their rights and document all interactions with the agency.
Options for Resolving Debt With Syncom
If Synergetic Communication has contacted you about a debt, you have several options for resolution depending on whether the debt is legitimate and your financial circumstances.
Request Debt Validation
Within 30 days of first contact from Syncom, send a debt validation letter requesting documentation that proves the debt. They must provide details about the original creditor, a breakdown of charges and how the amount was calculated, evidence connecting you to the debt, dates of any previous payments, and the age of the debt.
Syncom must cease collection activities until they provide proper validation. Review all documents carefully for errors or discrepancies.
Negotiate a Settlement
Like most collection agencies, Syncom may be willing to accept a settlement for less than the full amount owed. Settlement negotiations typically involve offering 30 to 50 percent of the total debt as a lump sum payment, though the agency may counter with a higher percentage.
Always get settlement agreements in writing before making payment. The agreement should specify the settlement amount, confirm that payment satisfies the debt in full, and ideally state whether Syncom will remove the collection from your credit report.
Arrange a Payment Plan
If you cannot pay the full amount or a settlement lump sum, Syncom may offer payment arrangements. Make sure any payment plan is documented in writing with clear terms including the payment amount and schedule, total amount to be paid, and consequences for missed payments.
Never give collection agencies direct access to your bank account for automatic withdrawals, as this can create problems if disputes arise later.
Respond to Lawsuits Promptly
If Syncom has filed a lawsuit against you, time is critical. In many jurisdictions, you have as little as two weeks to respond. Failing to respond can result in a default judgment in Syncom's favor, potentially allowing wage garnishment, bank account levies, or property liens.
Consult with a consumer protection attorney if you've been sued. Many attorneys offer free consultations for debt collection cases.
How Syncom Compares to Other Collection Agencies
Synergetic Communication's focus on large-balance accounts and their consultative PCE approach distinguishes them somewhat from general collection agencies. While companies like Advanced Collection Bureau also provide professional debt collection services across multiple industries, they may offer more specialized approaches for specific sectors like residential property management, medical collections, or commercial debt.
The advantage of Syncom's large-balance specialization is their experience dealing with complex accounts involving significant amounts. However, businesses with smaller average balances or those seeking more specialized industry expertise might find better fits with agencies that focus specifically on their sector.
For businesses seeking collection services, it's important to evaluate not just recovery rates but also compliance records, customer service quality, industry-specific expertise, and whether the agency's approach aligns with your company's values and customer service philosophy.
Best Practices When Contacted by Syncom
If Synergetic Communication reaches out to you about a debt, taking the right steps can protect your rights and lead to better outcomes. Do not ignore their communications, as avoiding the situation will not make it disappear and may lead to lawsuits or continued credit damage.
Request all communications in writing to create a documented record of your interactions. Verify the debt by requesting validation and reviewing all documentation thoroughly. Know your rights under federal law and be prepared to assert them if Syncom violates the FDCPA. Keep detailed records of every phone call, letter, and payment related to the account.
Consider consulting with a consumer protection attorney if you believe Syncom has violated your rights or if you're facing legal action. Many FDCPA attorneys work on contingency, meaning you pay nothing unless they recover money on your behalf.
The Role of Professional Debt Collection
Understanding why businesses use collection agencies like Syncom helps provide context for their role in the economy. When consumers or businesses fail to pay debts, these unpaid balances represent real losses to creditors. Collection agencies provide professional recovery services that allow businesses to recover these losses without dedicating internal staff and resources to lengthy collection efforts.
For businesses considering collection services, specialized agencies offer expertise in skip tracing and debtor location, understanding of state-specific collection laws, established credit reporting relationships, proven strategies for maximizing recovery rates, and the ability to pursue legal remedies when necessary.
Companies like Advanced Collection Bureau offer transparent practices, compliance-focused operations, and personalized service tailored to specific industries including residential property management, medical debt recovery, and commercial collections.
Moving Forward: The Future of Syncom
As the debt collection industry continues to evolve with changing regulations, technology, and consumer expectations, agencies like Synergetic Communication must adapt to remain competitive. The company's emphasis on their PCE program and consultative approach suggests recognition that modern collection requires more sophisticated tactics than traditional aggressive methods.
Recent regulatory developments, including enhanced CFPB oversight and state-level consumer protection initiatives, mean collection agencies face increasing scrutiny. Syncom's recent BBB accreditation may reflect efforts to improve compliance and business practices in response to this changing landscape.
For consumers, these regulatory pressures provide additional protections and accountability mechanisms. For businesses using collection services, they underscore the importance of partnering with agencies that prioritize compliance alongside recovery.
The Bottom Line
Synergetic Communication Inc., operating as Syncom, has established itself as a full-service debt collection agency over nearly three decades in business. Founded in 1996 and headquartered in Houston, Texas, the company specializes in large-balance accounts and serves clients across all 50 states and Puerto Rico.
For consumers, receiving contact from Syncom means a creditor has placed your unpaid debt with them for recovery. Understanding your rights under federal law and taking appropriate action can help you resolve the situation while protecting your finances and credit. Remember that you have the right to validation, the right to dispute inaccurate debts, protection from harassment and abuse, and options for settlement or payment arrangements.
For businesses, Syncom offers nationwide collection services with particular expertise in auto finance, mortgages, and large-balance accounts. However, as with any service provider, it's important to evaluate compliance records, customer feedback, and whether their approach aligns with your business values.
Whether you're a consumer dealing with a Syncom account or a business considering their services, understanding who Synergetic Communication is and how they operate is essential for making informed decisions about your next steps.
For more information about Synergetic Communication, visit their website at www.syncomcorp.net or call their toll-free number at 800-580-8615. For concerns about how your account has been handled, contact their Quality Team at 800-282-3214.
