Debt Collector Harassment:
Know Your Rights

Debt Collector Harassment: Know Your Rights
If you’re dealing with debt collector calls, you should be aware of your rights and know when a collector has crossed the line. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) has made it clear what collectors are allowed and not allowed to say or do when it comes to you and your debt. Read some of these guidelines to identify whether or not you’ve been a victim of debt collector harassment.

What Debt Collectors Can Do
According to the FDCA, whether you like it or not, debt collectors are allowed to contact you between the hours of 8am to 9pm, as long as it’s in your time zone. But keep in mind, if you make it clear that they are calling at an inconvenient time for you, they must cease calling you at that same time.

Collectors can reach you by any of the following methods: telephone, telegram, mail or fax. They can contact your family and neighbors to find you, but only if they don’t know where to find you or believe you have given them incorrect information. They can also call you at work or at home, unless you have an employer that objects to this and puts a stop to it.

What Debt Collectors Can’t Do
According to the FDCA, whether they like it or not, debt collectors are not allowed to harass you. They cannot threaten you, which includes threats of violence, damage to your property, or your reputation. They can’t tell you you’ve committed a crime, because you haven’t. They can’t tell you you’ll be arrested or have you arrested. They aren’t allowed to pretend they are attorneys if they’re not really attorneys. They are not allowed to use foul language. They can’t make you accept their calls or mail. They can’t deposit a post-dated check you’ve sent, prior to the date stated on the check. And something that most people may not know is that they cannot send you postcards that can be read by others, including mailmen or anyone that might catch a glimpse.  Those are all unacceptable debt collector harassment methods.  

What You Can Do
If you’ve been harassed by debt collectors in the past or currently, it’s important to know that it’s not necessary and may be unlawful. Use these FDCPA regulations to your advantage. If you think you’ve been a victim of debt collector harassment it is within your rights to hire a lawyer and file a lawsuit. You can also report the harasser to the FTC.

Also, remember that seeking help from debt professionals is always at your discretion as well. Debt professionals understand the FDCPA rules better than most and could take a lot of the heat from you if the situation gets too overwhelming. You are not without options if you feel the situation has gotten out of hand.
For more information on how we can help you deal with debt collectors, please visit www.fcsdebt.com.

Disclaimer: The materials available at this web site are for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice.  You should contact an attorney with respect to a legal issue or problem.