Due to the unexpected challenges of the past few years, many Americans have fallen on hard times, and as a result, are having trouble paying off their debt. To make matters worse, some people are facing additional stress due to harassment and abuse from creditors demanding payment. The Federal Debt Collection Practices Act is intended to protect you from this behavior.
What is considered harassment under the FDCPA?
Creditors sometimes act as though they have the right to do whatever it takes to make sure consumers pay off their debts. However, the FDCPA places limits on debt collection practices in several ways to keep creditors in line. For example, creditors are prohibited from harassing behaviors such as:
- Making early-morning and late-night calls (calls only allowed between 8am and 9pm).
- Using profane or vulgar language.
- Threatening violence or destruction of property.
- Repeatedly calling or texting.
- Sharing your information publicly.
You do not deserve to be disrespected just because you have not paid off your debt. If a creditor has continued to harass you after you told them to stop, you may consider filing a claim with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). Make sure to keep a detailed record of all communications, including voicemails and texts, and consider speaking to an attorney as soon as possible. Your attorney can advise you on next steps and help you file a claim for creditor harassment, if necessary.