Stopping the Calls

Whether or not you owe a debt, debt collectors cannot harass you. If your phone is ringing night and day, you may wonder what hours collectors can call and how often.

What do I do when a debt collector won't stop calling or threatening me?

The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act makes it illegal to call you after 9:00 p.m. or before 8:00 a.m. Debt collectors may not harass you, threaten actions they cannot legally take, lie to you, or use unfair and deceptive practices.

Under the law, you can make a debt collector stop contacting you by sending a cease-and-desist letter. Keep in mind, though, that stopping the calls does not make the debt go away.

Get help

If you are being harassed, low-wage workers can call the Heartland Center free of charge.