If a debt collector has ever contacted you, you know how stressful the experience can feel. Understanding what debt collectors can and can’t do gives you the tools to protect yourself and respond with confidence.
While collectors have the right to pursue payment, they must also adhere to strict rules outlined in the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA).
What Collectors Are Allowed to Do
Debt collectors are legally allowed to contact you about money you owe, whether it’s from credit cards, medical bills, or other debts. They can call, send letters, and even email or text you, as long as they do so within reasonable hours—generally between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m.
Collectors can also report unpaid debts to credit bureaus, which may affect your credit score. In some cases, they can file lawsuits to recover unpaid balances. However, even these actions must follow the law and respect your rights.
The Federal Trade Commission’s debt collection FAQs explain how legitimate collectors must operate and what practices are off-limits.
What Collectors Cannot Do
Collectors are not allowed to harass, threaten, or intimidate you. That means no repeated calls intended to annoy, no use of obscene language, and no threats of violence. They also cannot misrepresent the amount you owe, pretend to be government officials, or claim you’ll be arrested if you don’t pay.
They are also prohibited from discussing your debt with unauthorized third parties, such as neighbors or coworkers. If a collector contacts someone else, it should only be to get your current contact information.
For more practical advice on managing financial disputes, see Collecting Unpaid Invoices Without Court Drama.
How to Protect Yourself
If a collector contacts you, you have the right to request written validation of the debt in accordance with the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. This letter should explain how much you owe, who you owe it to, and your rights to dispute the claim. Always ask for this before making payments.
You can also instruct collectors to stop contacting you, either entirely or only through specific channels, by submitting a written request. While this won’t erase the debt, it will limit how they can communicate with you.
To understand your legal rights in other personal finance situations, see Filing for Bankruptcy Without Losing Everything.
Keep Detailed Records of All Interactions
One of the best defenses against unfair collection practices is thorough documentation. Keep copies of all letters, emails, and text messages, and log the dates and times of phone calls. Note the name of the collector, the agency they represent, and the details of what was discussed.
These records can serve as evidence if you need to file a complaint or take legal action. They also help you stay organized, avoid confusion about payment arrangements, and spot inconsistencies in what a collector may be telling you.
When to Seek Help
Suppose you believe a collector has violated your rights. In that case, you can file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), or your state attorney general’s office. In some cases, you may even be entitled to sue for damages.
Nonprofit credit counseling agencies can also help you create repayment plans or negotiate with creditors directly. Having professional support often eases the pressure and enables you to regain control of your finances.
If you want to know how to respond to financial challenges, see Dealing With Debt Collectors After a Medical Bill.
The Bottom Line
Debt collectors may have the right to contact you, but you have rights too. By understanding what they can and cannot do, you can protect yourself from harassment and misinformation.
With knowledge, documentation, and the right resources, you can handle collection calls with confidence and take control of your financial future instead of being intimidated.
