How to Deal with Rude Debt Collectors
It is a collection agency’s job to contact you when a bill has remained unpaid for a given period. However, it is not permissible for collectors to harass you or make demands that violate your rights as a consumer. If you feel a collector is acting rudely, you do have ample recourse.
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Instructions
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Do not ignore the calls and messages. The longer you wait to answer, the more your stress will build and the greater the problem becomes. It is always best to maintain communication. Perhaps you can work out a payment arrangement that will keep a negative history off your credit report.
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Document rude or unreasonable behavior. Give the caller the benefit of the doubt, assessing whether you are indeed receiving rude treatment. Perhaps the caller did not mean it the way it sounded or you are reacting too swiftly because you are stressed. If, however, you deem the behavior rude, document the entire conversation.
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Note the times you are contacted and the method, whether phone, mail, in person, telegram or fax. By law, a debt collector can only make contact from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Any other time is illegal and you can file a complaint.
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Note the collector’s demands. A debt collector cannot demand any amount over what you owe unless state law permits. If you specify where a payment is to be applied, the collector must apply it only to that amount. You cannot be forced to pay any amounts that are in dispute.
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Note any threats. A debt collector cannot use derogatory, profane or obscene language. Any threats of bodily harm are illegal. Likewise, threats of property seizure or arrest fall into this category.
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Ask to speak to a manager immediately, if you are displeased with how a collector is handling your situation. Document everything. Get the operator or employee number of the debt collector with whom you spoke. If you don't receive the proper attention from a manager, immediately report the creditor and any information surrounding the call to the Federal Trade Commission and to your state attorney general’s office.
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Tips & Warnings
Document, document, document.
Do not ignore your bills. It will only make your problems worse.
References
Resources
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