What is the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act?

The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) is a federal law enacted in 1977 to protect consumers from unfair and abusive debt collection practices by debt collectors. In Tennessee, the FDCPA prohibits a debt collector from using abusive, deceptive, or otherwise unfair methods when collecting debt. This includes threatening or harassing behavior, profane language, and misrepresenting the debt or the rights of the debtor. The FDCPA also requires that debt collectors provide written notices to debtors of their rights, including the right to dispute debts. For instance, debt collectors must provide debtors with written notice that they have a right to dispute the debt, and if they do, the debt collector cannot pursue the debt until the dispute is resolved. The FDCPA also requires that debt collectors provide debtors with the name and address of the original creditor, in case a dispute needs to be filed to that creditor. Ultimately, the FDCPA ensures that debt collection agencies treat debtors fairly and do not use deceptive or abusive tactics.

Related FAQs

Can a debt collector contact me if I have an attorney representing me?
Can a debt collector ever take money out of my bank account without my permission?
Can a debt collector ever contact my friends, family, or employer?
Can a debt collector ever contact me more than once a week?
Can a debt collector contact me if I’ve offered to settle a debt?
Must a debt collector give me written notice before attempting to collect a debt?
Does the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act apply to all types of debt?
Can a debt collector sue me if I don’t pay my debt?
What happens if I dispute a debt with the debt collector?
Can a debt collector threaten to take legal action against me for a debt?

What is the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act?

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