The media has reported an overwhelming amount of harassing debt collectors terrorizing customers. Initially, consumers reported debt collectors calling multiple times per day, interrupting dinner and even awaking consumers out of their sleep. However, this has now escalated as recorded conversations reveal foul language, racial slurs, and even threats from collectors directed to consumers. Not only can this cause stress, but it can also increase friction among members of the household. In either event, with debt collects increasingly harassing tactics and inappropriate behavior, it may seem impossible to keep debt collectors at bay. Below we will discuss a few ways to get some relief from debt collector harassment.

Debt collectors usually begin calling when accounts are 30 days delinquent. If you are behind in your payments do not delay in contacting the company first. By the time that you start to receive harassing phone calls, it may be too late. Therefore, do not wait to be contacted. The original creditor\’s goal is to keep your business. If your account is in good standing or if it is on the brinks of becoming delinquent, the original creditor wants to keep your business since they will ultimately make money from your continued use of their services.

After your account is 90 days past due, the original debtor may bring in a third party debt collection agency in an attempt to collect the money. If you are not able to catch up on your payments before your account is forwarded to a collection agency, brace yourself for some harsh treatment. Know your rights before doing anything. If you are behind in your payments or if any collection company contacts, you, always ask for documentation of the debt that is owed. Ask for formal verification of the amount that you owe before discussing repayment of any debt.

Whether your account has reached collections or not, always attempt to resolve the matter using a payment plan. Outline the amount in which you are able to pay each month and see if the collector can accommodate your proposed amount. In either event, be extremely cautious in giving any financial information in regards to your earnings and your banking information. Once you release this information, you will have little power thereafter to stop any collection attempts by way of garnishments or monetary recovery from your bank account.

If a debt collector insults you or threatens you, do not become intimidated. Ask to speak with a supervisor. Be sure to collect the collector\’s full name and associate identification number. If the collector threatens to involve legal action, acquire a lawyer first. After you acquire a lawyer, they must stop contacting you and any information or legal action will be forwarded directly your attorney. If in fact you have extreme cases of harassment on behalf of a third party debt collector, obtain the collection company\’s information including mailing address and send a written letter to stop the phone calls. Under the federal debt collection act, collectors must stop calling with a written request.

Author Bio: If debt collectors\’ harassment is persistent, the best way may be to hire a debt settlement attorney or use one of the debt management companies through debt consolidation programs to represent you.

Category: Finances
Keywords: debt collectors, debt collection, debt collection agency, debt collector harassment