How to Deal with Debt Collectors

Dealing with Debt Collectors

If you are currently being harassed by debt collectors, you do have options. Debt collectors are not allowed to harass you. Also, your lawyer can help you put a stop to the frustrating calls from collection agencies. Here are some common questions of what people want to know regarding debt collection agents.

Is the Debt Collector Breaking the Law?

Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, debt collectors cannot use deceptive or unfair practices when collecting a debt. It does not matter what type of creditor that you owe, you cannot be harassed at any time or place by the debt collection agency.

The collectors cannot call you before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m. The only time that they can break that rule is if you tell them explicitly that they can call at a time that falls into this window. Additionally, they cannot contact you if you are at work. Tell them that you cannot receive calls at work and if they call again, they are violating the FDCPA.

A debt collector can never threaten you, use obscene language or try to annoy you by repeatedly calling your number. He or she has to be completely honest with you about your debt. He or she cannot claim that you could be arrested or that you will suffer any legal action if that’s not true. The collector also cannot lie about being a government representative or an attorney.

Can You Stop a Debt Collector’s Calls?

You can ask the debt collector to stop calling you. The first step is to send a letter to the debt collector. Ask him or her to stop contacting you. You can even ask for a return receipt so that you can confirm when the agency received your letter. You can talk to the collector only once more to confirm that you do not want him or her to talk to you again.

If you contact a lawyer, you can also state that all communication can go through your lawyer. If you choose to file for bankruptcy, then all harassing calls and attempts to collect the debt have to stop automatically.

You do not have to experience abuse, harassment, or threats from debt collectors. They are bound by laws and cannot collect the debt however and whenever they want. If you are looking for a bankruptcy lawyer, then consider discussing these matters with a firm like the Brandy Austin Law Firm, PLLC to determine how to handle your debt collectors.