If you are deep in debt and behind on your bills, you no doubt receive regular telephone calls from debt collectors. It is important to know your rights and know that a debt collector can and can not legally do or say.
Most professional collectors follow the rules established by the Federal Fair Debt Collection Practices But occasionally, you get a call from a less professionalcollection agency that crosses the line. In fact, the Federal Trade Commission lists the complaints against debt collectors among the main complaints we receive. This sector receives more complaints from all the others put together!
Taking into account the fact that relatively few people make a formal complaint, then you realize the actual number of violations should be very high. In fact, it is a bit 'too high considering the size of the sector and the volume of accounts are in collections. Unfortunately, the situation seems to get worse instead of better.
So what if he is a victim of abuse and illegal tactics collection? First, arm yourself with knowledge. Make sure you know your rights, visit the website of the Federal Trade Commission.
A common threat is illegal and that will take your home or other property from you, but to pay the debt. If> Of the debt is secured, can not take your stuff. Now, if you do not meet your car loan, the car can be recovered. If you do not meet your mortgage, your home may go into foreclosure. However, credit card unsecured debt is not guaranteed. Only recourse they have is to take you to court and obtain a ruling against him. At that time, you may be able to decorate your bank account or wages.
Another threat is that an arrest warrant issued against him ifnot pay the bill. Again, this is beyond the power of a debt. The debt can only go to jail due to an IRS. The non-payment of unsecured debt is not a criminal offense. Is threatening to jail or charged with a crime is against the rules of the FTC.
You can ask them to stop contacting you by phone. You have the right to request that all written communications. If they can not fulfill your request, andcontinue to ask, however, they are violating federal law.
If a collector is never a phrase like: "We know where you live ..." can and should report it immediately. This can be interpreted as a threat of violence, and very, very illegal.
Other things that collectors can not do are:
When discussing your debt with third parties
Interfere with their work to call you at work
Using obscene or profane language or yelling
Noconstant and relentless phone calls
Do not respond to written disputes
Debtor's disclosure
If you feel your rights have been violated by a debt collector, what can you do? We can and must make formal complaints with the Attorney General of your state and the state of the collection agency. We can and must also file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission. All this can be done online. You also may sue acollector harassment, abuse and rights violations.
If you are a victim of abusive collection practices, not just take. You can fight and defend their rights.
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