Debt Collector Harassment: Know Your Rights
Debt collectors are legally barred from harassing you. Here's what counts, how to document it, and how to actually report it.
What Counts as Harassment Under the FDCPA
Repeated calls intended to annoy, abuse, or harass you
Threats of violence or harm
Obscene or profane language
False statements about the amount owed or your legal exposure
How to Document Harassment
Keep a call log with dates and times, save voicemails and text messages, and retain any letters you receive, this record matters if you file a complaint or pursue legal action. For example, a simple note like "3/14, 7:45am, called 4x in one hour, threatened to have me arrested" is exactly the kind of detail that turns a vague complaint into one an agency or attorney can actually act on.
How to Report It
- File a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
- File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
- Contact your state attorney general's consumer protection office
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This information is for general education only and is not legal advice. Debt collection laws vary by state and change over time. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.