At times, credit card debt can get out of hand. If you are behind on your credit payments and a collection agency purchases your debt, you will likely receive calls to settle your debt. The federal government and Maryland do protect citizens against harassment from debt collectors. However, many still choose to consumers would still consider debt collection agencies to be near predatory in their tactics. When debt collectors begin to call, there are options that a consumer can take.
Nerd Wallet warns that you should not pay upon the collector’s first contact. While a debt collector cannot take you to court if the statute of limitations runs up on the debt, the clock will reset as soon as you make a payment. Likewise, to make a payment is to agree to the debt. You may ask questions about your debt but do not make any promises or try to settle the debt right away.
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act does shield you from predatory strategies. If a collection agency harasses you, you have the right to communicate when it is appropriate to contact you. Debt collectors should never sound threatening and should never use profane or vulgar language against you. In addition, the debt collection agency has to remain honest. When you hear from a debt collection agency, you do have the right to dispute the debt. If you choose this, then the collector cannot ask for payment until you resolve the dispute.
The above information is for educational purposes on collection agencies. It is not legal advice.