What types of collection practices are illegal?

Collection defense law in Washington outlines what types of collection practices are illegal. Creditors must obey the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) when attempting to collect on a debt. Under the FDCPA, a creditor must not contact the debtor in an annoying, oppressive, or abusive way. This includes calling before 8am or after 9pm, not informing the debtor of their legal rights, making threats, or using profanity. It is also illegal for creditors to attempt to collect a debt the debtor does not owe. Creditors must validate the debt and provide written verification that the debt is authentic. If the debt is inaccurate, the debtor can dispute and request documentation of the debt. Additionally, creditors cannot make false claims or threaten legal action for nonpayment. Creditors must explain the steps necessary for the debtor to resolve the debt. Creditors are also not able to collect fees, interest, or other charges unless agreed to in the original agreement or permitted by law. Finally, creditors must not contact the debtor’s family, friends, or employers to collect the debt. Creditors are only allowed to contact these people to obtain contact information. If a creditor is found violating these laws, they can face civil action, fines, and other penalties.

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What types of collection practices are illegal?

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