If you have gotten a bit behind with a few of your bills it's understandable, considering the downward spiral of today's economy. However, although it may be understandable, debt collectors will continue to be relentless and go after their money, possibly leading them to harass you with endless phone calls. But rest assured because Congress has made efforts to protect you from such harassment.
Congress is on your side when it comes to ending those harassing debt collection calls. In order to protect your rights as the debtor, Congress has enacted federal legislation that regulates debt collectors and their attorneys. The act is called the Fair Debt Collection's Practices Act (FDCPA).
According to the Federal Trade commissions website "It is the purpose of this title [FDCPA] to eliminate abusive debt collection practices by debt collectors"..."and to promote consistent State action to protect consumers against debt collection abuses".
Stop the Debt Collection Calls
As a step to protect you, the act supports that in order to stop the calls, all you are required to do is ask the collector to stop. No hoops or obstacles to go through first, just a simple request that the calls be stopped.
Also, be aware that calls from collectors are not allowed before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m. unless you have given permission.
According to BCS Alliance.com, a credit and debt solutions site, "This law requires that debt collectors and attorneys stop phoning you at home and at work once you ask them to stop." The law also specifies that your request should be in writing. So in an effort to stop the calls immediately you should ask calls to stop as soon as you are able and advise the collector to only contact you through mail.
Soon after asking on the phone, make sure to send a certified letter to the company also requesting the calls to stop. As another step to protect yourself, make sure you as for a return receipt and keep any and all documentation that proves you made the request.
Know Your Consumer Rights
Debt collectors are not permitted to mislead you or threaten you into paying. Do not be intimidated, know your rights and if you feel your rights are being violated, contact your attorney general and decide whether or not you need to take legal action by hiring a lawyer. If you do indeed need a lawyer, under the FDCPA, collectors are required to then speak only to the lawyer unless it is otherwise stated.
Knowledge is power, learn as much as you can about your rights as a consumer and the laws set out to protect you.
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