Debt Collector Crossing the Legal Lines?

Aug 3, 2016 | Bankruptcy, Budget Counseling, Debt Amortization, Debt Consolidation, Debt Relief

stormcloudsIf you are behind on payments, or a credit agency incorrectly has you listed as such, you may have debt collectors trying to contact you. According to ACA International, (the Association of Credit and Collection Professionals), most are honest legitimate businesses, who treat consumers with respect; but there are also those unscrupulous businesses who have absolutely no intention of complying with the law.

How to tell when a debt collection agent is crossing the line? This excerpt from a recent article in Money Talk News lists some things to watch for:

Know your rights
Your rights are spelled out in the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), which also lists practices that are off-limits for debt collectors. You should report these abusive tactics, say the FTC, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and other agencies:

  • Calling before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m. unless you have agreed to accept early or late calls.
  • Lying about the amount you owe.
  • Using foul language.
  • Making threats.
  • Calling repeatedly to annoy you.
  • Calling you at work after you’ve told them verbally or in writing that your employer doesn’t allow you to get such calls in the workplace.
  • Publishing a list of individuals with outstanding debts.
  • Posting your debt on your social media accounts such as Facebook, Twitter or Tumblr, where it can instantly be viewed by others.
  • Falsely claiming to be a lawyer, process-server or someone who works for a government agency.
  • Discussing your debt with anyone other than you, your spouse and your attorney.
  • Claiming you have committed a crime or will be arrested.
  • Calling your boss or friends to get information about you. (Exception: They can ask for contact information; they cannot say you owe money.)

~Money Talk News July, 2016

If you have experienced any of the above listed illegal actions from a debt collection agency, let them know that you will file a complaint, and that you are aware of your rights. Next, call ESSERLAW at 414.461.7000, www.esserlaw.com for a free consultation. Our Team of qualified, experienced professionals will review your unique situation and present options enabling you to be…debt free.
ESSERLAW LLC

we want you to be…debt free

Article Source: http://www.moneytalksnews.com/what-debt-collectors-come-calling/