In the UK, receiving a letter from an unfamiliar address can be unsettling. One such frequently encountered address is PO Box 1399, Bradford, BD5 5GA.
Many people across the country receive official-looking communications from this PO Box and wonder about its origin and legitimacy.
This blog explores who uses this PO Box, what kind of letters are sent, and whether recipients should be concerned. By the end, you’ll know how to respond appropriately and where to go for assistance if needed.
What Is PO Box 1399 Bradford BD5 5GA?
PO Box 1399, Bradford, BD5 5GA is a designated postal box address used for outbound and inbound mail, primarily by legal and debt collection firms.
This address is not linked to a walk-in office or public business location; instead, it is used as a central point for receiving correspondence from individuals across the UK.
The postcode BD5 5GA is situated in Bradford, England, and is specifically assigned to PO Box 1399, which serves a private company for secure and discreet communications.
Key details include:
- It is not linked to residential properties
- Used for managed, secure, and scalable mail handling
- Ideal for organisations that handle sensitive communications
This address supports efficient client communications for organisations handling multiple inbound letters, especially in legal or financial sectors where documentation is critical.
Why PO Box 1399 Bradford Is Commonly Seen on Official Mail?
Seeing PO Box 1399 Bradford BD5 5GA on an envelope often indicates correspondence from a professional or legal firm. It’s not unusual to receive letters from this address if you have an outstanding balance, unresolved financial matter, or were previously contacted by a creditor.
Reasons for common usage:
- Centralised Communication: A PO Box allows the firm to separate consumer mail from their operational offices, maintaining privacy and efficiency.
- Volume Handling: Legal firms like Overdales handle a high volume of communications. A PO Box streamlines the process and ensures nothing is missed.
- Security: PO Boxes provide added security, particularly when handling documents related to financial or legal issues.
- Brand Privacy: Using a PO Box helps avoid disclosing the operational address to the public.
This specific PO Box has become widely recognised due to its association with debt recovery notices. Many people across the UK have received letters citing this address, prompting questions about legitimacy and next steps.
For anyone receiving such communication, it’s essential to understand who is behind the address before reacting.
Who Uses PO Box 1399 Bradford BD5 5GA?
PO Box 1399 Bradford BD5 5GA is exclusively used by Overdales Legal Limited, a UK-based law firm specialising in debt recovery and litigation. This address is part of their structured communication channel and is used to issue letters to individuals regarding unpaid debts on behalf of corporate clients.
Overdales operates under the wider Lowell group, which is one of the UK’s largest credit management companies. They typically send out debt notifications, legal warnings, and account updates through this PO Box.
The company uses this PO Box to handle incoming communications as well. It serves as a central, secure, and traceable point of contact for consumers who are responding to letters or providing information regarding outstanding financial matters.
Who Are They?
Overdales Legal Limited is a regulated debt recovery law firm operating in the UK. Formerly known as Lucas Credit Services, Overdales specialises in litigation and legal communication related to unpaid debts. They work on behalf of financial services companies, telecom providers, and utility companies.
Key facts about them:
- Part of the Lowell Group: They act as a legal arm of this large UK credit management company.
- Regulated Entity: They are authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
- Rebranded: They operated under the name Lucas Credit Services until 2021.
- Communication Tools: The firm uses digital and traditional means to manage debt communications.
Overdales employs software like CollectR™ to manage their debt cases, ensuring a systematic and compliant approach to collection.
Why Are People Receiving Letters from PO Box 1399 Bradford?
Many people receive letters from PO Box 1399 Bradford BD5 5GA unexpectedly. These letters are typically sent because a creditor has transferred or sold an unpaid debt to a third party or instructed Overdales to recover the amount owed.
Legal or Debt Notices
Overdales uses this PO Box to send legal warnings, notices of intended court action, or reminders about unpaid balances. These are usually in connection with old credit card bills, personal loans, telecom bills, or utility arrears.
Transferred Accounts
If a creditor could not recover the debt internally, the case may have been passed on to Overdales for further action. This often includes legal steps, depending on the age and size of the debt.
Debt Portfolio Management
Overdales does not buy debts for themselves but acts on behalf of companies who still legally own the debt. This means if you receive a letter from this PO Box, it’s likely tied to a specific historical account.
Should You Be Worried If You Get a Letter from PO Box 1399?
Receiving a letter from PO Box 1399 Bradford BD5 5GA can cause concern, but it doesn’t always mean you’re in serious trouble. These letters are legal communications about financial matters that the sender believes are outstanding.
It’s important to treat any communication from Overdales seriously, but not with panic. The letter usually outlines the debt in question, the amount owed, and options to resolve it. You are encouraged to verify the contents first before responding.
It could be a genuine error, an old account you forgot about, or a mistake in identity. In either case, you have rights under UK law, including the right to request verification of the debt.
Ignoring these letters can lead to court proceedings, so it’s better to engage early, understand your position, and seek advice if necessary.
What Steps Should You Take After Receiving Such Mail?
If you’ve received a letter from PO Box 1399, don’t panic. Follow a structured approach to handle the situation effectively.
Start with the following steps:
- Read Carefully: Note debt amount, creditor, and deadline.
- Check Accuracy: Verify account number and debt ownership.
- Request Validation: Ask for proof and breakdown of charges.
- Do Not Ignore: Ignoring can make the issue worse.
- Seek Advice: Contact a recognised debt advice service.
- Negotiate: Set up repayment plans or settle if possible.
Taking the right steps quickly can prevent further legal action and help you regain control of your financial situation.
How Can You Contact PO Box 1399 Bradford BD5 5GA?
If you’ve received a letter and need to get in touch with the organisation behind PO Box 1399 Bradford BD5 5GA, direct contact can help resolve your queries faster.
While the PO Box is primarily for postal communication, Overdales also offers digital and phone-based contact methods.
Here are the official contact details:
| Contact Type | Information |
| Phone | 0333 111 0800 |
| General Email | help@overdales.com |
| Complaints Email | complaints@overdales.com |
| Postal Address | PO Box 462, Leeds, LS14 9NW |
| Customer Portal | portal2.overdales.com |
Always include your reference number (if available) when writing or calling. This ensures they can locate your case faster. Communication should remain professional, and you have a right to request information in writing.
Conclusion
Letters from PO Box 1399 Bradford BD5 5GA often relate to legitimate debt matters handled by Overdales Legal Limited. As part of the Lowell Group, they are authorised to contact individuals on behalf of corporate creditors.
Receiving a letter from this address doesn’t mean immediate legal action, but it does require attention. It’s essential to understand your rights, verify the legitimacy, and take the appropriate next steps.
If needed, consult a debt advisor to guide you through the process. Taking early action often prevents larger problems down the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
What legal rights do debt collection agencies like Overdales have in the UK?
They have the right to contact you and take legal action through the courts, but must follow fair debt collection practices.
Can a PO Box address be used in court communications?
Yes, regulated firms are allowed to use PO Box addresses for legal correspondence as long as they are clearly identified.
Is it possible to negotiate a debt repayment with Overdales?
Yes, Overdales may accept repayment plans or settlements depending on your financial situation.
How can I find out if a debt letter I received is genuine?
Contact the firm directly using their official phone or email, and request written verification of the debt.
Are there any government-backed debt solution options in the UK?
Yes, options like Debt Relief Orders, IVAs, and debt management plans are available through recognised providers.
How long do debt collection companies keep personal data?
They retain data as long as necessary under UK data protection law, often up to six years or more.
Can I stop Overdales from contacting me via PO Box 1399?
You can request written-only communication or raise a complaint, but they may still contact you as permitted by law.
