Getting bothered by Debt Collectors? Now is only the beginning…
If you are subscribed to our weekly newsletter, then you must already know that debt collectors are out to retrieve all the debts they couldn’t collect due to the Covid-19 pandemic. You may have already filed an FDCPA complaint due to the constant collection calling, and if you haven’t yet, best believe that debt collectors will break many collection call laws n a desperate attempt to get you to resolve your legitimate and even timed barred debt.
Now that the end of all the chaos is in sight as more Americans continue to receive their Covid-19 vaccine, debt collectors are pressing hard – now more than ever – to ensure that they leave no stone unturned.
That said, we have outlined 7 ways debt collectors plan to coerce payments from you post-covid-19. Most of these practices are FDCPA violations, thus, you may be able to sue the agency and get compensation ranging between $500 – $1500. Call us now at 877-700-5790 to see if you have a valid case.
In this era of stimulus payments and economic recovery, many debt collectors will engage in several illegal debt collection practices, such as:
1. Tell you that they are police or law enforcement officials: Debt collectors calling you might claim to be police or court officials. Not only is this practice unfair, but it also violates the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, and can fetch you compensation of $1000. Call us now.
2. Tell you that the debt you owe could lead to you being arrested or persecuted in court: To infect you with fear and ensure that you act quickly especially on a timed barred debt, many debt collectors may threaten you with arrest and jail time. Note that your debt alone can never land you in jail, and you cannot be summoned to court except the debt collection agency sues you through the correct procedure. Employing deceit and making empty threats are examples of illegal debt collection practices that amount to FDCPA violations.
3. Tell you that you owe a debt that has already been collected or discharged in bankruptcy: Beware of this trick; it could lead you to restart the clock on a time-barred debt. If you get a debt collection letter or a call from an individual who claims to represent a debt collection agency, request that they put their claim in writing. This document should contain all the details of the debt including your full name, address, the name of the original creditor, and the amount you owe. Check your documents to ensure that the debt has not already been paid, settled, or discharged before you even admit to owing it over the phone.
4. Call you repeatedly or at odd hours: Collection call laws state that the time for ethical debt collection is between the hours of 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. Any call placed to your phone outside these hours (except where otherwise stated by you) is a violation of the FDCPA. Additionally, a bill collector is not allowed to call you repeatedly with the intent to harass or annoy you.
5. Threaten to harm you: Any threats of harm or corporal punishment is not only a violation of the FDCPA and debt collection state laws but also a crime that may carry heavy penalties in court.
6. Threaten to shame you by publicizing your debt: Debt collectors are only allowed to share details of your debt with your spouse, co-signor, or parent (if you are a minor). Informing any party outside those listed above is considered to be a violation of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act.
7. Show up at your place of employment: If a debt collector cannot reach you, then they may try to show up at your place of employment. Not only is this embarrassing, but it also constitutes a major FDCPA violation.
You can file an FDCPA complaint, or reach out to us at 877-700-5790 for help and further assistance.
