Dealing with debts can be very stressful especially if you can’t address delinquent accounts immediately. You may be at the point where you worry about the debt collector calling or otherwise trying to get in touch with you. While debt collectors have a right to do their work, they must do so in a respectful and non-harassing manner.
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) was put in place to protect those who are struggling with debt. The act recognizes that people dealing with debt are not doing so intentionally, and they are usually in a less than perfect situation while doing the best that they can.
What types of behavior does the FDCPA limit?
The FDCPA makes it unlawful for debt collectors to call debtors between 9 p.m. and 8 a.m. in their local time zone. They also prohibit any type of harassing behavior, including repeated or persistent calling, threatening behavior or misleading information.
What can I do if I believe a debt collector has broken the rules of the FDCPA?
It is possible for you top take legal action against a debt collector if you believe that they have violated the FDCPA. If you are successful in doing so, you may be able to receive compensation for the damages that the debt collector caused. Unfortunately, the debt will still remain in place even if the law was broken by the debt collector.
As a debtor in the state of Minnesota, it is important that you stand up for your right to fair treatment from debt collectors and that you understand your protections under the FCPDA.