Are there any restrictions on when a debt collector can call me?

Yes, debt collectors in Washington have restrictions on when they can call you. According to Washington’s Collection Agency Act, a debt collector may not call you before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m. Also, they may not call you more than 3 times a week. Furthermore, debt collectors are not allowed to contact third parties like family or friends to find out your contact information or to discuss the debt. They are only allowed to contact such persons to confirm your address or telephone number. If the debt is in dispute, the debt collector must cease any collection activities until the debt is found to be valid. Debt collectors are also not allowed to harass, oppress, or abuse you. If you feel like the collector is violating any of these rules, you can file a complaint with the Washington Department of Financial Institutions. Finally, if you have asked the debt collector to stop contacting you, they must stop, except for certain limited purposes such as informing you that the debt collector is ceasing collection activities or to a subsequent debtor collector. Overall, Washington’s Collection Agency Act provides consumers with protections from illegal or unfair debt collection practices. If you believe your rights are not being respected by the debt collector, you can take action by filing a complaint or by speaking to an attorney.

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Are there any restrictions on when a debt collector can call me?

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