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The recession means more people are falling behind on their bills. The last person you want to hear from is a debt collector.
Some debt collectors are just doing their job, but others cross the line.
Fox 29 Consumer Reporter Michelle Buckman explains how to stop debt collector harassment and maybe even collect some money from them:
Read the story on MyFoxPhilly.com here: Real Deal: No Harassing Debt Collectors
Consumer credit laws are being created in many states that will force debt collection agencies to prove that the debt they purchased for pennies on the dollar exists and the consumer legitimately owes the money. North Carolina recently passed a law this month that requires debt buyers who file a lawsuit to provide documentation proving that they own the debt. In Indiana, there is the Indiana Deceptive Consumer Sales Act prohibits debt collectors from intentionally overstating the amount of the debt they are trying to recover.
National consumer credit laws such as the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act already prohibit collection agencies from harassing, deceptive or unfair practices such as telling neighbors or relatives about what is owed, or calling before 8 a.m. or late at night.
Since the recession started, at least a half-dozen states have adopted additional limits, like imposing statutes of limitations on collections and adding opportunities to punish abusive practices in court. Other states may soon follow suit.
Read the full story here: States adding limits, forcing agencies to prove debt exists.
There is nothing more bothersome or stressful than having debt collectors call and threaten you. Pay up or we will alert your neighbors. Pay up or we will contact your family. Pay up or we will garnish your wages. The threats get more and more vindictive with each call, and often these collectors act in such a heartless way, using obscene language and making such terrible threats, that you feel you are trapped. The good news is that you are not trapped. You do have rights and you should not be afraid to use them.
The purpose of our credit law blog is to educate you on your rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). This law is designed to stop collectors from being abusive and unprofessional. Even if you owe money and the debt is really yours (you will be amazed at how many folks are called for another person’s debt), the collector must still treat you fairly and respectfully.
If you have been the victim of abusive or deceptive debt collection practices, please drop us a note or call us at 1-800-NOT FAIR (1-800-668-3247) and discuss your situation with us. If we can help, it’s completely cost-free to you.