How to Stop Debt Collectors from Calling

Debt collectors may be trying to use the economic situation against consumers. After all, good credit scores and reports are becoming more and more important. However, some of them are crossing the line and taking illegal measures to take your money. Know your rights to prevent debt collector abuse.

Instructions

1. If you are not sure the debt is yours, demand the debt collector validate it. Ask them in writing for validation. They have five days to provide you with the original creditor and the amount of the debt. If they fail to validate the debt, they have violated your rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practice Act.

2. Debt collectors cannot call you at unreasonable hours. According to the FDCPA, this means they cannot call prior to 8 a.m or after 9 p.m. If they make calls outside these hours, remind them that they are violating your rights and demand they stop.

3. Debt collectors cannot call your place of work. Again, if they do, remind them that they are violating your rights and demand they stop.

4. Debt collectors may make all sorts of harassing statements and threats; if they do, demand that they stop calling you. You may need to send a certified letter (return receipt) demanding them to stop contacting you. If asked, they are required to stop, however, that does not mean you are freed of the debt.

5. If you have legal counsel, notify the collector of your counsel and have all communication sent to him. If you inform a debt collector that you have obtained a lawyer, she is required to send all future communications to that lawyer.

6. Document all instances where a debt collector has harassed and threatened you, or have violated your rights as a consumer in any way. If they repeatedly violate your rights and have blatantly disregarded the FDCPA, you may be able to file a suit against them.

References

• Bankrate.com: Telling Debt Collectors 'I Don't Have Your Money'