Illinois residents like you sometimes need financial aid. Sometimes you get into debt and sometimes you need help getting back out of it. There is no shame in this.
Unfortunately, you may feel pressured to act quickly. As soon as you fall into debt, debt collectors and creditors begin to pester you for money. In some cases, this can toe the line and become harassment. But how do you know a creditor crossed the line?
Common tactics of harassers
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau examines harassment by debt collectors. Under law, harassment is any action taken with the intent to harass, annoy or abuse you. This can include making repetitive phone calls without identifying themselves. They may call at inappropriate hours.
More extreme examples of harassment include the use of vulgar or abusive language. Creditors may threaten you with harm or even physical violence. They could hold your home over your head as a threat, saying they will evict you and your family. They may use obscene or profane language while talking to you.
Are you on a “shame list”?
Some debt collectors also keep “shame lists”. They publish these lists on public platforms, often somewhere online. They include personal information about you and other adults in your household. This lists attempt to shame you into repaying your debts.
It often feels impossible to combat this sort of harassment. Fortunately, there are ways you can do it. One of these ways is by filing for bankruptcy. There are other benefits you can find in bankruptcy filing too, but an end to the harassment you face is a big one.