Debt Collection Frequently Asked Questions - Part One -

How can I get collection agencies to stop calling me at all hours of the day and night?
It is against federal law for a bill collector who works for a collection agency to call you before 8am or after 9pm in your time zone, other hours maybe illegal as well.

For instance, if you work nights calling you during the daytime at certain hours may be illegal.

The “Fair Debt Collection Practices Act”, (FDCPA), also restricts collectors from calling you at your place of business, using abusive language, harassing you, making misleading or false statement, adding unauthorized charges and many other practices.

Under the FDCPA, you can request in writing that the collection agency stop contacting you, except to inform you that the collection process has ended or to let you know that the creditor or collection agency will sue you.

A local merchant’s collections department is harassing me. What can I do to stop this?
The FDCPA does not apply to the collection department of a creditor, they only apply to separate collection agencies not belonging to that specific creditor.

Many states have their own unique laws regarding debt collection that do indeed cover these types of situations.

You should check with your local state consumer protection agency to see if your state laws apply to in-house collectors and what types of practices are prohibited.

I have been instructed by a bill collector that I must wire the money I owe through Weston Union. Do I have to?
Absolutely not. This can only add more money to your debt if you did do it. Many collection agencies, especially when the bill is more than 90 days overdue, will try to push you into several “urgency payment” options. On the next page you'll find some options that are typically suggested...

Click Here To Read Debt Collection FAQ Part Two