Debt Collectors and Collection Practices
Being contacted from a debt collector may pose some questions and concerns that should be reviewed before making payment. Sometimes consumers are unsure about certain actions debt collectors are allowed and not allowed to do, which can give debt collectors a more likely chance to take advantage of someone not familiar with their rights.
The following questions may help outline concerns related to debt collection practices:
Are debt collectors allowed to contact someone else regarding my debt?
Unless you have a legal representative, a debt collector shouldn’t be discussing information related to your debt with others. They may contact someone you know regarding where you live or work but not about monies owed.
What is a debt collector required to tell me about my debt when they contact me?
Debt collectors should submit a written notice after the initial contact regarding debt owed. This should be detailed information regarding the creditor, the amount and any action that you can take if you feel you don’t owe.
If I feel I don’t owe, can they still continue contacting me?
If you send a letter to them claiming you don’t owe within 30 days, they shouldn’t continue contacting you unless they submit information or proof that the debt is yours, such as a copy of a bill.
What collection practice is prohibited?
Debt collectors should not harass, oppress, or abuse debtors. They shouldn’t make false threats that they don’t intend to act on such as filing a lawsuit or claim you’ve committed a crime. They also shouldn’t falsely claim they are legal representatives.
Being sued for unpaid debt is a possibility but debt collectors found to be in violation of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act may face legal consequences. Stop debt collection abuse today by contacting us.