If a debt collector contacts me, am I required to pay the debt?

In Oregon, the answer to this question is complicated. Debt collection law in Oregon requires debt collectors to follow certain regulations when attempting to collect a debt from an individual or business. However, it is important to remember that debt collectors cannot force you to pay the debt. Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, debt collectors cannot threaten you with legal action, use abusive or obscene language, harass you or your family, or misrepresent information. Furthermore, debt collectors are not allowed to call you before 8:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m., without your permission. If a debt collector contacts you and you do not believe you owe the debt, you may dispute the debt and request verification. If they cannot provide verification, they cannot attempt to collect the debt. Additionally, if you are not able to pay the debt, you may be able to negotiate a payment plan or settlement with the debt collector. If you are being contacted by a debt collector, it is important that you understand your rights and obligations under the law. You should also keep detailed records of your correspondence with the debt collector and contact an attorney if you feel you are being treated unfairly.

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If a debt collector contacts me, am I required to pay the debt?

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