The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, FDCPA, has strict guidelines about what debt collectors can and cannot do. As a consumer, it’s important that you’re aware of these guidelines, even if you don’t have any accounts that are currently in collections. Debt collectors could try to get you to pay a debt you don’t owe or contact you to find out information about a friend or relative who does owe a debt.
You have the right to take these actions against a debt collector that violates the FDCPA:
- File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission against the collector.
- File a complaint with your state's attorney general.
- File a complaint with the Better Business Bureau.
- File a civil suit in your state or federal court for up to $1,000 including damages.
When you file a complaint or suit against a debt collector, have as much evidence supporting your claim as possible, including dates and times of phone calls, name of the collection agency, name of the person you spoke with, and specific details about the violation.
If you have questions about whether your rights have been violated, see these 15 FDCPA Violations.
