Many people experiencing financial hardship have been victims of debt collection abuse. Debt collection abuse is anything a creditor does to coerce, threaten, or harass someone into paying off a debt. Thankfully there are laws and policies in place to protect people from this unfair and threatening practice.
We have a network of attorneys who are experienced in ending annoying calls from debt collectors. Call (818) 697-4295, and we will connect you with an attorney for a FREE consultation!
Unwanted Phone Calls Can Lead to Harassment
Harassment from debt collectors can come in many forms, but the most common is through unwanted phone calls. If you have fallen behind on your bills, missed a few payments, or completely forgotten to pay your bills altogether, you will most definitely begin to receive phone calls from the companies or financial institutions to whom you owe money.
During these phone conversations, they will be asking you to resolve the unpaid debt immediately through either payment of the money owed in full or setting up payment arrangements. When these unwanted phone calls escalate into harassment, you have the right to put an end to them.
Follow these steps in order to end those unwanted phone calls:
- Collect as much information as you can about the debt in question, such as the person’s name, date of birth, social security number, or address.
- Report these harassing calls from debt collectors to any of the following organizations – the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, the Association of Credit and Collection Professionals, or you may also contact your state Attorney General’s office.
- Record all or as many of these harassing phone calls as you can. This will be helpful, along with collecting the above information, for any future legal decisions.
- Save any letters, notices, or e-mails you receive regarding the debt in question.
- Find an attorney who specializes in suing debt collectors. This does not mean you have to sue, but the attorney can assist you by providing the information you need in order to make the best decision.
Unlawful Practices Prohibited by the FDCPA
How do you know if you are a victim of debt collection abuse? The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) is a federal law that protects consumers from these unfair practices. Below are examples of various FDCPA violations:
- Profane and threatening language
- False statements in order to intimidate you
- Adding fees, charges, or interest that is not a part of the original credit agreement
- Claiming to be someone else, such as an attorney or a law enforcement officer
- Threats to arrest you, garnish your wages, or seize your property
- Claiming you owe more money than you actually do
- Making statements that legal action will be taken against you
An FDCPA attorney can help you discover your rights as a victim of debt harassment calls. As a victim of these harassing phone calls, you do have the right to sue and recover fees for damages incurred. Types of damages include physical, emotional, stress-related, loss of wages from being harassed at work, and any attorney costs and fees.
End Debt Collection Abuse Calls – Speak With an Attorney
Don’t wait to stop calls from debt collectors. The longer you wait, the easier they think it is to call you again.
You will want to find a Fair Debt Collection attorney you trust; someone who truly cares about your situation. Our partnered attorneys will listen to your experience and advise you according to your circumstances.
Call us at (818) 697-4295 to be connected to an FDCPA attorney. The consultation is FREE!