Debt Collection Frequently Asked Questions

A person or company, often third-party, that attempts to collect debts owed to someone else, subject to FDCPA rules. Read more →

A company contracted by your original creditor to collect a debt on their behalf, typically for a percentage of what's recovered. Read more →

A company that purchases delinquent debt outright, often at a steep discount, and then collects for its own benefit. Read more →

The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, the primary federal law setting rules for how third-party collectors can contact and treat consumers. Read more →

The FDCPA limits calls to reasonable hours and bars repeated calls intended to annoy or harass — general framing, since specifics are set by federal guidance. Read more →

A written request asking a collector to prove they have the right to collect a debt and that the amount is accurate, before you pay anything. Read more →

Generally 30 days from a collector's first contact with you. Read more →

A written request telling a collector to stop contacting you — it stops contact but does not erase the debt or stop legal action. Read more →

Repeated calls meant to annoy, threats, obscene language, and false statements about the debt or your legal exposure. Read more →

A time limit for suing to collect a debt — it varies significantly by state and debt type, so no universal figure applies. Read more →

In some states, yes — making a payment or acknowledging the debt can restart the clock, which is one of the most important traps to know about. Read more →

Old, often time-barred debt that resurfaces after being sold to a new debt buyer. Read more →

Debt past the statute of limitations for a lawsuit — still technically owed, but generally no longer suable. Read more →

Generally no, but collectors can usually still contact you and request payment in most states. Read more →

Red flags include threatening arrest, demanding gift cards or wire transfers, and refusing to provide written validation. Read more →

File a complaint with the CFPB, the FTC, or your state attorney general's consumer protection office. Read more →