What Can a Debt Collector Do?
Can a debt collector contact me any time or any place?
No. A debt collector may not contact you at inconvenient times or places, such as before 8 in the morning or after 9 at night, unless you agree to it.
How can I stop a debt collector from contacting me?
Tell the collector — in writing — to stop contacting you. To see sample letters to stop debt collectors, click here.
Can a debt collector contact anyone else about my debt?
If an attorney is representing you about the debt, the debt collector must contact the attorney, rather than you. If you don’t have an attorney, a collector may contact other people — but only to find out your address, your home phone number and where you work.
What does the debt collector have to tell me about the debt?
Every collector must send you a written “validation notice” telling you how much money you owe within five days after they first contact you. This notice also must include the name of the creditor to whom you owe the money, and how to proceed if you don’t think you owe the money.
Can a debt collector keep contacting me if I don’t think I owe any money?
No, not if you send a letter within 30 days after you receive the validation notice.
Where do I report a debt collector for an alleged violation?
Report any problems you have with a debt collector to the state attorney general’s office and the Federal Trade Commission (www.ftc.gov). You could be entitled to money for the damages that you have suffered if a debt collector is violating your rights. Don’t be intimidated, contact a fair debt lawyer today for a FREE review of your information to see if you have a case.
