Collection agents have rules
The phone is ringing; once again, its a collection agency. Do you know the rules that they have to abide by?
Yes, it is true there are laws regulating their actions. Here are what collection agents may not do:
* Call before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m.
* Talk to anyone but you about the debt. They make speak with your attorney if you have one.
* Threaten to sue unless they are actually taking legal action. In some states, third-party collection agencies may not sue.
* Threaten you with arrest or jail.
* Threaten to garnish wages or seize property unless they actually intend to do so. Garnishment is illegal in some states, and in others requires a court order. In many cases, property seizure is not permitted. Check with your state attorney general's office or state consumer protection office to find out what is legal in your state.
* Use obscene language.
* Annoy or harass you with repeated calls.
* Call at work if you have asked them to stop.
* Lie about their identities. They must give their real names and the name of their company. They may not falsely claim to be an attorney, a representative from a credit bureau or a member of law enforcement.
Ideally, a collections call should be no different than the calls you make at work each day.
When a collection agent calls it should be handled like a business call. The above regulations kept in would maintain a business relationship. However, there have been numerous reports of the consumer being made to feel guilty or belittled in some fashion resulting in anger or in some cases tears.
Knowing the rules can help you to stay cool and calm when you are being collected. Maintaining your composure will protect you from getting caught into some trap by promising or making a deal or even being so confused you begin to give vital data that is not necessary for them to have.
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