Collection Harassment Is A Big Concern For Me!

Many individuals in the world struggling to manage their debt have had the unfortunate pleasure of having to deal with collection telephone calls and sometimes collection harassment.

What many individuals don't realize is there presently exist federal debt laws in place to safeguard their rights and that collection companies are required to follow these laws or risk the possibility of being sued.

Possible Violations for the Fair Debt and Collections Practices Act:

1. Calling the customer's job after the debt collector knows the consumer's employer prohibits calls or the individual asks the debt collector not to call where they work anymore.
2. Threatening that nonpayment will result in imprisonment, garnishment, and/or liens if the debt collector is not an attorney
3. Phoning the consumer's neighbors, friends, family members, etc. when the debt collector already understands how to contact the client. (they're only allowed to make contact with third parties to obtain the consumer's contact information.)
4. Disclosing to friends, family members, etc. that this consumer owes a debt.
5. Harassing, oppressing, insulting or verbally abusing the client(this is VERY broad.)
6. Threatening to sue when the debt collector is not an attorney/law firm.

In truth if you are falling behind on your debt you are going to receive phone calls. There is no debt settlement company that can stop that. Knowing your rights is the first step in fighting those calls.

Suggestions you can do if you are dealing with Creditor Phone Calls

1. Don't answer the phone. Pre screen your phone calls and if it's a number you do not recognize, let them leave a message.
2. If you are still current you can get a device such as the "Magic Jack" which will give you a virtual phone number and voice mail. Go on your creditor's websites and change your contact number to the magic jack number and never plug a phone into it.
3. Change your phone number. Tell your friends and family that you are receiving numerous unsolicited phone calls and you are fed up and decided to change the number. Ensure the new number is private and unlisted.
4. Lastly you can send them written notice that you do not intend to pay them and to stop calling you. This is not always the best option as it can cause those creditors to be more aggressive in their collection efforts and could possibly spur law suits.

If you are going past due on your bills and are receiving calls from the creditors, I'd suggest talking with someone to find out what your credit card debt help options are.

To talk to someone about it