Debt collectors who break the rules can be sued. The FDCPA protects you from harassment, deception, and unfair practices.
Expert information to help you understand your rights and options
Debt collectors cannot call constantly, threaten you, use profanity, or contact you at work after being told to stop. The FDCPA prohibits these and other abusive practices. Learn what constitutes illegal harassment, how to document violations, and options for making collectors pay for misconduct.
You can sue debt collectors for FDCPA violations and recover statutory damages, actual damages, and attorney fees—meaning lawsuits often cost you nothing. Consumer attorneys take these cases on contingency. Learn what violations support lawsuits, damages available, and finding representation.
Written cease communication demands legally require debt collectors to stop contacting you, with limited exceptions. While this does not eliminate the debt, it ends harassing calls and letters. Learn how to write effective cease letters, delivery requirements, and what collectors can still do after receiving one.
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act gives you specific rights collectors must respect—validation notices, cease communication demands, and protection from false statements. Collectors who violate the FDCPA owe you $1,000 plus actual damages. Learn your complete FDCPA rights.