How to Deal with Debt Collectors

The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) regulates how third-party debt collectors can contact you and what they can do.

Your rights under the FDCPA:

Written notice — Within 5 days of first contact, the collector must send a written validation notice with the amount owed, the creditor's name, and your right to dispute.

Dispute the debt — You have 30 days to dispute the debt in writing. The collector must then verify the debt before continuing collection.

Stop contact — You can send a written cease-and-desist letter demanding the collector stop contacting you. They must comply except to confirm they will stop or to notify you of legal action.

What collectors CANNOT do:

Call before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m.

Call your workplace if told not to

Contact you directly if you have an attorney

Use threats of violence or harm

Use obscene language

Make false statements about the debt

Claim to be law enforcement

Threaten actions they cannot or will not take

Discuss your debt with third parties (except your spouse, attorney, or co-signers)

Add unauthorized fees or interest

Steps to take:

Request written verification of the debt.

Check the statute of limitations — old debts may be uncollectible.

Keep records of all communications.

Negotiate a settlement or payment plan if the debt is valid.

File complaints with the CFPB and FTC if the collector violates the law.

Remedies. You can sue for statutory damages ($1,000 per lawsuit), actual damages, and attorney's fees.

This is legal information, not legal advice.