What Collectors Can’t Do to You
August 29, 2010 by Annabelle Rowan · Leave a Comment
According to the Fair Trade Commission, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act lists what rights consumers have when dealing with debt collectors, including:
* A debt collector can’t contact you at unreasonable hours, defined by the act as between 9 p.m. to 8 a.m., unless you give permission.
* You can tell a collector — by a letter or by voice — not to call you at work; the collector must abide.
* A collector can call your family and friends, but only to find out your contact information. They are not allowed to discuss the debt with anyone but you unless you have an attorney. * A collector has to provide written information on the debt within five days of contacting you. The letter has to tell you the creditor’s name and what to do if you don’t think you owe the debt.
* A collector can’t harass you, which includes threatening you with harm, cursing at you or publishing your name as someone who owes money.
* A collector can’t lie, including claiming she is an attorney, saying you have committed a crime or any other lie about the actual debt, such as the amount.
* Someone’s wages can’t be garnisheed without a judge’s consent.
If you think your rights have been violated, contact a debt help lawyer today for a FREE consultation.
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