What rights do I have under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA)?

The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) is a federal law that protects consumers from unfair collection practices by debt collection companies. In New York, the FDCPA defines certain rights that consumers have when they are contacted by a debt collector. First, you have the right to be treated in a fair and professional manner. Under the FDCPA, debt collectors cannot threaten, harass, or use abusive language when contacting you about a debt. Debt collectors are also prohibited from calling you at an unreasonable time or place or calling you repeatedly. Second, if you dispute a debt, debt collectors must provide you with verification of the debt. This includes a written statement that the debt is valid, how much is owed, and to whom the debt is owed. Third, the FDCPA protects you from being contacted at your place of employment if you tell the debt collector not to do so. Debt collectors are also prohibited from communicating with your family, neighbors, or friends about the debt or revealing information about the debt to them. Finally, the FDCPA prohibits debt collectors from taking any legal action against you that they are not legally allowed to do. This includes filing a lawsuit or garnishing your wages without the proper authorization. These are just some of your rights according to the FDCPA. If you believe that a debt collector has violated the FDCPA, you should contact a qualified consumer protection lawyer to determine what your legal options are.

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What rights do I have under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA)?

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