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Are debt collectors harassing you? Are they calling or texting you at all hours? Are they using threatening language? Aggressive debt collectors use a variety of tactics to get people to make payments on their debt. They are often persistent and resort to bullying or threatening you. Don’t be intimidated by this behavior. Know that you have rights as a consumer and that an experienced attorney could help.
If you are facing illegal harassment from rude debt collectors, Loan Lawyers could help you stop this unwanted and possibly illegal behavior. Contact us for more advice on how to deal with rude debt collectors.
Tips on How to Deal with Aggressive Debt Collectors
Responding to debt collectors can feel overwhelming, so here are some tips to help:
- Know your rights – The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) and the Florida Consumer Collections Practices Act protect consumers from unauthorized communication from debt collectors. These laws specify how debt collectors may obtain your information, how they can contact you, and when they can contact you. False and misleading representations, harassment, and other unfair practices are prohibited.
- Keep records – Make detailed notes about any calls you receive and what you discuss. You should also keep your financial records organized. You can dispute the debt if their requests do not match your records.
- Don’t make a payment – Making a small payment of $5 or $10 may seem like a good idea. However, it could restart the statute of limitations. This could lead to a lawsuit or wage garnishment. Don’t make promises such as “I can start paying next month” for the same reasons.
- Request that they stop calling – You can send a letter to the collection agency requesting they stop calling. You can also block their number on your phone.
- Stay calm – If your case goes to court, you don’t want evidence that you became angry or used vulgar language when dealing with the collection agency. You may also unintentionally share damaging information if you’re mad or upset.
- Consult with an attorney – Once you hire an attorney, the FDCPA requires that the debt collector speak directly with your lawyer. This can end unwanted calls, and you won’t need to worry about accidentally sharing information that could jeopardize your case.
You may also report abusive debt collectors to the Federal Trade Commission and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
Common Actions Performed by Aggressive Debt Collectors
Signs you are speaking with an aggressive debt collector include:
- Speaks disrespectfully, including using vulgar language
- Communicates in an aggressive or angry tone
- Displays a lack of sensitivity for your finances or personal concerns
- Uses threats or scare tactics
Many of these and other related behaviors are prohibited by law.
Talk to Our Skilled Debt Collector Harassment Attorneys in Fort Lauderdale, FL Today
Living under a cloud of debt can leave you feeling frustrated and hopeless. Aggressive debt collectors only add to that stress.
At Loan Lawyers, we have helped over 7,000 Florida clients get out of debt. We’ve also recovered over $25 million on behalf of our clients as compensation for negligence or fraud by debt collectors, credit card companies, and banks. We are here to protect you from their abuse. Contact us today for a free consultation.
- About the Author
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Matis Abarbanel is the founding partner and senior attorney at Loan Lawyers in South Florida. He focuses his practice on consumer rights, helping homeowners navigate issues such as foreclosure and financial hardship. Matis also brings a wealth of experience from his previous work in personal injury law. As a devout Chasidic Jew, he is committed to making a positive impact in his community and dedicates his efforts to charitable initiatives through his non-profit organization, The Center, which aids at-risk Jewish youth. Matis actively serves clients across South Florida and is passionate about empowering individuals to secure their rights and achieve a better future.
