Being contacted constantly by creditors about a debt you allegedly owe is already stressful, but what can make things even more frustrating is when a debt collector contacts your employer. You may be wondering if it’s even legal for a collector to talk with your employer. According to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), debt collectors are allowed to contact certain third parties, but only to ask for your contact and location information. Third parties can include employers, coworkers, family, and friends.
Though debt collectors are legally permitted to contact third parties, they may not discuss the following with them:
- Their identity as a debt collector
- That they’re collecting a debt from you
Additionally, debt collectors can only contact your employer once, unless your employer has permitted them to call again. If the debt collector has continued calling your employer after they’ve asked them to stop, they are violating the FDCPA and can be held accountable when you hire a lawyer.
What Is the FDCPA?
The FDCPA is a federal law that puts a limit on debt collectors who are attempting to collect debts on behalf of another entity or person. Limits include restrictions on the means and methods by which collectors can contact debtors, as well as the time of day they can call and the number of times they can make contact.
If the creditor has done any of the following, they could be in violation of the FDCPA:
- Called you every day of the week
- Discussed your debt with your friends, coworkers, or employer
- Claimed to be an attorney when they aren’t
- Called before 8 AM or after 9 PM
- Sent letters, emails, or texts to collect a debt
How Can I Stop Contact?
To stop contact from debt collectors, the FDCPA allows debtors to form a written request to halt all communications, also known as a cease and desist letter. After you send the letter, the collector may only contact you to tell you they’re ending communications, or that may sue you to collect the debt. If the debt collector continues to contact you regarding the debt, you have cause for suing them as a violation of the FDCPA. You may be entitled to ask for money damages with the help of an experienced attorney.
Fiercely Protecting Your Consumer Rights
If you’re ready to regain control of your life, our consumer defense attorneys are here to help. It’s important to contact Atlas Consumer Law as soon as possible to prevent your issue from becoming worse. With our years of experience and innovation, we can help you explore your options and inform you on your legal rights so you can make the best decision for your future. Our lawyers are well-versed on the provisions of the Fair Credit Reporting Act, the FDCPA, and other consumer rights laws, and can determine if your rights are being violated. We’re not daunted by going up against at-fault creditors on your behalf.
Being harassed by creditors at work, even after you’ve asked them to stop? Protect your rights today by calling Atlas Consumer Law at (312) 313-1613, or contact us online. Our credit lawyers are passionate about educating clients on their consumer rights and pursuing justice for them.