Debt collectors are increasingly using text messages to contact consumers about unpaid debts. But are they allowed to text you? What rules must they follow? At Consumer Rights Law Firm PLLC, we help consumers understand their rights and take legal action against illegal debt collection practices.
If you’re receiving harassing, misleading, or excessive text messages from a debt collector, you may be protected under federal law—and could even be entitled to financial compensation.
Can a Debt Collector Legally Text You?
Yes, under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) and the ’s (CFPB) regulations, collection agencies can send text messages, but they must follow strict guidelines:
✅ They must identify themselves as a debt collector.
✅ They cannot send misleading, harassing, or threatening messages.
✅ They must provide an opt-out option so you can stop receiving texts.
✅ They cannot text excessively or send messages at inconvenient times (before 8 AM or after 9 PM in your time zone).
🔹 Important: Debt collectors cannot text you if they don’t have your permission or if you’ve told them to stop.
Your Rights When Debt Collectors Text You
Under federal law, debt collectors CANNOT:
❌ Harass you with excessive texts (e.g., sending multiple messages per day).
❌ Threaten or mislead you (e.g., falsely claiming they’ll have you arrested).
❌ Discuss your debt with third parties (e.g., texting about your debt to a family member, friend, or employer).
❌ Text you without providing an option to opt out (They must allow you to stop messages).
🚨 If a debt collector violates any of these rules, you may be able to take legal action against them.
How to Stop Debt Collectors from Texting You
If you’re receiving unwanted or harassing debt collection text messages, you have options:
1. Opt-Out of Texts
✔️ Reply with “STOP” – Debt collectors must honor this request.
2. Send a Written Cease and Desist Letter
✔️ Mail a formal letter requesting that they stop all electronic communication.
✔️ Send via certified mail to have proof of delivery.
3. Keep Records of All Messages
✔️ Save screenshots of text messages for evidence.
✔️ Note the date and time of each text.
4. Check the Statute of Limitations
✔️ If the debt is too old, the collector may not legally be able to sue you.
5. Contact a Consumer Protection Attorney
✔️ If a collector is violating your rights, you may be able to sue them under the FDCPA and TCPA (Telephone Consumer Protection Act).
Can a Debt Collector Serve You a Lawsuit via Text?
No. A debt collector cannot serve you a lawsuit via text message.
If a debt collector texts you a “legal notice” or threatens that they are filing a lawsuit against you via text, they may be violating the FDCPA. Legal notices must be served properly, typically in person or by certified mail.
🚨 If a debt collector tries to serve you legal documents via text, contact an attorney immediately.
What Should You Do If a Debt Collector Sends Illegal Text Messages?
If you believe a debt collector is violating the FDCPA or TCPA, you may be entitled to:
💰 Up to $1,000 in damages under the FDCPA.
💰 Up to $500–$1,500 per illegal text under the TCPA.
💰 Compensation for emotional distress or harassment.
At Consumer Rights Law Firm PLLC, we fight back against illegal debt collection practices.
📞 Call us at 877-700-5790
📧 Email us at help@consumerlawfirmcenter.com
Don’t let debt collectors harass you through text—know your rights and take action today!