What Are My Rights With Collection Agencies?

Debt collectors can be scary. For one, being pursued by a debt collection agency feels a little like getting chased by a police officer. You feel as though you did something so wrong but, in most cases, you’ve simply come across hard times and been unable to pay off your debt. That said, you do have rights as a consumer. Make sure you’re not being harassed by a debt collector.

Your Rights With Debt Collection Agencies

Here are just a few of the rights you have when it comes to debt collection agencies:

1. Debt collectors cannot legally visit or call you at your place of employment. This is important to remember because, should a debt collector call you repeatedly at home and get no answer, many do resort to trying to track you down at work. This is not permitted though.

2. There are certain times of the day when debt collectors are not permitted to call you at home. For instance, they typically cannot call you before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m. If they do, they are breaking the law. Be sure to keep records of the calls you receive from debt collection agencies.

3. Though you’re going to be hard-pressed to find a “nice” debt collector, there is a limit to what they can say to you. In no way should a debt collector verbally abuse you or make you feel uncomfortable during your interaction with them. They should not be calling and threatening you at any time.

4. Though they can contact friends and family about your whereabouts, debt collectors are not allowed to call your friends and family in an attempt to collect your debt. After initially contacting them about your whereabouts, they also cannot contact them again.

What To Do If You Feel You Are Being Harassed By A Collection Agency

If you feel as though your rights have been violated by a collection agency, you should get their name immediately and report them to the Better Business Bureau. You also have the option of taking them to small claims court in most states. Under the Fair Debt Collections Practices Act, debt collectors cannot legally harass you or violate your rights. Know what they are and make sure you’re being treated fairly.

Related posts:

1. What Are My Rights As A Debtor?
2. How Long Can A Debt Collection Agency Seek Payment?
3. If I Owe Money To The IRS, Are My Credit Card Collection Accounts Uncollectible?
4. How To Write A Letter To Debt Collectors To Stop Calling?
5. What Happens If I Dont Pay My Medical Bills?