If you have ever dealt with a debt collection agency, then you understand the stress and turmoil that even a single phone call can elicit. Thankfully, you’re protected. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) provides consumer protection against debt collection harassment by collectors and agencies. Should any bill collector violate this federal law when dealing with you, there are steps you may take. For instance, you may sue the debt collector or merely report them to the government.
Typical Violations
There are, unfortunately, hundreds of unique ways for debt collectors to violate the FDCPA. Some of the most common debt collector violations, of which you should absolutely speak with an attorney regarding, include:
- Calling before 8 a.m.
- Calling after 9 p.m.
- Calling while at work more than once
- Calling third parties
- Telling anyone that a collector is trying to collect a debt from you
- Contacting you after you have written and requested they cease contact
- Trying to collect on a debt that is not valid
- Sue or threaten to sue you
- Leave messages on answering machines without clearly stating they are a debt collector
- Threaten to garnish wages
- Use profane or abusive language
- Try to collect the wrong amount
What You Can Do
First and foremost, you want to speak with an attorney. An experienced lawyer will guide you through the entire process of reporting the agency or debt collector. You will want to file reports with the Federal Trade Commission or State Attorney General. Both organizations take complaints very seriously. Chances are, if presented appropriately and within the specific timeframes required, action will be taken against the collector or agency promptly.
Contact Us
To speak with an experienced attorney, contact Lucé Law, PC by calling (972) 632-1300. We will help you handle blatant disrespect from debt collectors, especially those who are in violation of the FDCPA.
