Have Debt? That doesn't mean you deserve abuse.
Nov. 12, 2014
Feeling stressed over money issues? Behind on your bills? None of that means that you deserve to be subjected to abuse. Debt collectors must abide by certain rules and regulations when attempting to collect money. However, not all play fair, and it helps to know your rights. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, known as FDCPA, controls the behavior of debt collectors. You can read more about that act here. Summed up, debt collectors cannot use abusive, unfair or deceptive practices when attempting to collect money from you.
Here are some examples of what is not allowed, under the FDCPA. A debt collector cannot contact you at inconvenient times or places. They cannot contact you at your place of work if you have told them not to. If you have an attorney representing you, a debt collector must contact the attorney rather than you. Debt collectors cannot discuss your debt with others. Debt collectors must honor a 30 period of no contact if you have asked for validation notice of debts owed. No harassment of any kind is allowed. What falls under the classification of harassment? Threats of violence or harm and profane language are examples of harassment. *All specific information can be obtained from here.
So what happens if a debt collector has violated the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act? You have rights, and it is important to know them so that you can exercise them. You can sue a collector within one year of the violation. You can gain damages for any losses you suffered. An attorney can help you with assessing your case. Many states have their own laws aside from the FDCPA.
If you are in need of assistance with debt or dealing with debt collection issues, contact Wolfe Law Office for a free consultation at 304-245-9097.
Source:
https://www.consumeradvocates.org/issues/debt-collection-abuse
DISCLAIMER: Because of the generality of this update, the information provided herein may not be applicable in all situations and should not be acted upon without specific legal advice based on particular situations.