What rights do consumers have when dealing with debt collectors?

In Washington, consumers have a wide range of rights when it comes to dealing with debt collectors. The federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act and the Washington Consumer Protection Act are two pieces of legislation that protect consumers from unfair debt collection practices. Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, debt collectors are prohibited from engaging in excessive or harassing contact with consumers, such as calling before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m., using profane and abusive language, and making threats of violence or harm. Debt collectors also are prohibited from collecting interest or fees on top of the original debt amount, and they must provide consumers with written notice of the amount of the debt being collected. Consumers also have the right to request that debt collectors stop contact. If the consumer requests this, the debt collector must stop contact aside from legal proceeding notifications. Consumers also have the right to dispute a debt and demand validation from the debt collector. If the debt collector cannot provide sufficient evidence, then the debt must be considered invalid. Lastly, debt collectors are prohibited from contacting third parties, such as employers, friends, or family, other than to attempt to locate the consumer. If the debt collector violates any of these laws, the consumer may be able to sue the debt collector for damages and costs. In Washington, a consumer may also be entitled to civil penalties and attorney’s fees.

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What rights do consumers have when dealing with debt collectors?

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