How do I know if I am being pursued by a legitimate debt collector?
To determine if a debt collector is pursuing you legitimately, you should first check with your local consumer affairs office. They can provide you with information about debt collectors licensed to operate in your area. The debt collector should also provide you with written notification that includes the name of the company they represent, how much you owe, and details of how to dispute the debt. Additionally, they must comply with the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, which prohibits them from using threats, harassment, or deception to collect a debt. You should also check the Texas Collection Defense Law, which provides additional protection for Texans from questionable debt collection activities. This law requires debt collectors to register with the Texas Office of Consumer Credit Commissioner, and to provide information about their practices to the Commission, such as about the debt collection process and any legal action they intend to take. The law also limits the amount of contact a debt collector can have with a debtor, and restricts the hours and methods of communication. If a debt collector is still pursuing you after you’ve checked with the consumer affairs office and the Collection Defense Law, you may want to seek legal advice from an attorney. An attorney can help you protect your rights and make sure that the collection attempts are in compliance with the law.
Related FAQs
What kind of proof do I need to file a collection defense lawsuit?What defenses are available to me in a collection defense law case?
How do I report a debt collector in violation of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA)?
Can I settle a debt collection case in court?
What constitutes harassment under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA)?
What are the consequences of not paying a debt?
What type of debt is not subject to collection?
How do I know if a letter from a debt collector is legitimate?
How do I appeal a court decision in a collection defense case?
What types of evidence should I provide in a collection defense case?
Related Blog Posts
A Beginner's Guide to Collection Defense: What You Need to Know - July 31, 2023What is the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act and How Does It Affect Your Rights? - August 7, 2023
How to Challenge Unfair Collection Tactics - August 14, 2023
Common Collection Defense Strategies that Could Help Your Case - August 21, 2023
Understand Your Rights: What You Need to Know About Collection Defense Law - August 28, 2023