The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) strictly limits how and when debt collectors can contact you.
Limitations on Time and Place
Collectors are only allowed to call you on the phone between 8.00 am and 9.00 pm in your time zone, unless you have told them otherwise. They also aren’t allowed to call you at a time or place that is known to be inconvenient to you. If you advise them that they are calling at an inconvenient time, they are legally bound to honor that.
Collectors are limited to calling no more than seven times a week with one exception. Once a debt collector speaks with you, they cannot call again for at least seven days. In addition, you can ask them to stop calling you and they must comply or risk violating the FDCPA.
Limitations on Invading Your Workplace
Collectors are prohibited from calling you at your job if your employer explicitly prohibits collection calls or personal calls.
Have you Got an Attorney?
If the collector has been informed that you are represented by an attorney regarding the matter, they are prohibited from contacting you directly. In fact, any communication by a debt collector, once you are represented by an attorney, is an automatic violation of the FDCPA.
No Robocalls to Your Cellphone
If you haven’t given collectors express consent to contact you on your cellphone, it is illegal for them to call your cell number using automated dialing systems or prerecorded voice calls.
Are collectors violating the rules stated above?
If so, follow the steps outlined here. Then gather your records and contact an experienced debt collection abuse attorney, because you’ve likely got grounds for a lawsuit.
It’s free to chat with me about your options – you can call or text me at 215.551.7109, or drop me a line.