Constant harassment from debt collectors is a top source of anxiety for many Americans. The debt combined with abusive collection practices could even lead to a stress disorder. You may know you have rights but are unsure what you can and cannot do when the harassment...
How can you tell whether a debt collector is operating legitimately?
Facing collection activity is highly unpleasant for any person accused of not paying their financial responsibilities in full. Collection agents often call people at home and work. They may use degrading language or make someone feel threatened. The tactics employed...
Can a debt collector threaten you?
Debt collectors can use various tactics to encourage people to pay. In some cases, they may resort to tactics that are illegal. As most consumers do not know their rights, unscrupulous debt collectors often get away with it. Hence, understanding a little can help you...
4 things to know about debt collector calls
Debt collectors have a difficult job, but they must still follow certain laws when they’re trying to collect money. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act governs what they can do. For example, they can’t threaten you with arrest for not paying your debt. The FDCPA...
Are you facing financial stress because of zombie debt?
Technically, creditors have the right to call you, send you letters or even take you to court in an effort to collect on the debts that you owe. However, after a certain point, it will become much harder for a business to convince an individual to pay a debt....
Outsmarting debt collector hounds
The best way for Minnesota consumers to beat debt collectors at their own game is by knowing their rights. Debt collectors count on fear, ignorance and intimidation tactics to scare you into paying them. Being equipped with the correct information helps you overcome...
Things debt collectors cannot do
Anyone struggling with debt in Minnesota knows how stressful the situation is. Many debt collectors will try to capitalize on that stress by illegally attempting to seize your property, including your vehicles. If a repossessor calls for your vehicle, you must take...
Protecting yourself against debt collectors
Debt collectors are allowed to contact debtors, but there are limitations on frequency and type of contact. They cannot leave intimidating or threatening messages on other people's phones or email accounts. There is a federal law designed to stop debt collectors in...
When can a debt collector contact me or others?
It can be exhausting when a debt collector calls you non-stop about your debts. You have other responsibilities in life, and having a debt collector pursuing you may interrupt your daily activities and affect your work performance. You may owe the money, but that...
Looking back: Abusive debt collection in 2020
Regular readers of our Minnesota Consumer Rights Blog know that we have several times written in the past about the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). Simply put, it’s a law that helps to protect consumers from abusive debt collectors. It’s not uncommon for a...