Receiving a call from a debt collector can be stressful, especially if you are tight on money. However, sometimes collection agencies have the wrong contact information or may be trying to collect on a fake debt. Collection agencies may also use aggressive tactics to scare you into paying a debt. Here are some tips from the Better Business Bureau to help you respond to debt collectors correctly.
Your rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act:
- Debt collectors are required by law to provide information in writing. If you are contacted by a debt collector, ask to be provided with an official “validation notice” of the debt.
- You must respond in writing within thirty days of receiving the debt notice to avoid further action by the collector. If you have proof that the debt has been paid, provide that as well.
- A debt collector must prove that you owe the money before they can try to collect if you dispute the debt in writing within 30 days.
- They cannot harass, oppress or abuse you. They are prohibited from swearing at you or calling repeatedly.
- They cannot contact you at work if you tell them not to do so.
- They cannot continue to call if you request, in writing, that they only communicate with you by mail.
- They cannot collect a debt that you do not owe.
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If you are in financial crisis and considering filing for bankruptcy, contact an experienced Miami bankruptcy attorney who can advise you of all your options. As an experienced CPA as well as a proven bankruptcy lawyer, Timothy Kingcade knows how to help clients take full advantage of the bankruptcy laws to protect their assets and get successful results. Since 1996 Kingcade & Garcia, P.A. has been helping people from all walks of life build a better tomorrow. Our attorneys’ help thousands of people every year take advantage of their rights under bankruptcy protection to restart, rebuild and recover. The day you hire our firm, we will contact your creditors to stop the harassment. You can also find useful consumer information on the Kingcade & Garcia website at www.miamibankruptcy.com.
