What consumer rights do I have when dealing with debt settlement companies?

Residents of Hawaii have the right to protection from unscrupulous debt settlement companies. The federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), as well as Hawaii’s own consumer protection laws, give consumers the right to dispute any debt that they know or believe is inaccurate, and provides them with certain protections when dealing with debt collectors. When dealing with debt settlement companies, consumers have the right to accurate and honest information. This includes information about any applicable fees, as well as a clear understanding of the terms of any settlement offered. Consumers also have the right to receive an itemized list of any fees or commissions charged by the company before agreeing to any debt settlement plan. Additionally, debt settlement companies are prohibited from attempting to collect payments on debts that are past the statute of limitations or are not legally enforceable. They must also avoid any unfair or deceptive practices, such as falsely claiming the ability to remove negative items from credit reports. Under FDCPA law, debt settlement companies must also not call individuals before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m., or contact a consumer’s place of employment if the consumer has requested otherwise. They must also stop contacting a consumer if the consumer has requested them to cease communication. In Hawaii, consumers have the right to seek compensation for damages through the Attorney General’s Consumer Rights Division if they feel that a debt settlement company has violated their rights.

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What consumer rights do I have when dealing with debt settlement companies?

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