There are a lot of myths and misconceptions about what debt collectors can and cannot do. In this blog post, we will dispel the rumors and set the record straight. Debt collectors can do a lot of things to try to get you to pay your debts, but there are also some things that they cannot do. Here are 5 of the most common myths about debt collectors, along with the truth!
Myth #1
Debt collectors can threaten to sue you or take away your possessions if you don’t pay your debt.
Truth #1
Debt collectors cannot make any false or misleading statements when trying to collect a debt from you. This includes threatening to sue you or take away your possessions if you don’t pay the debt. If a debt collector does make any of these threats, it may be considered harassment and you can file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).
Myth #2
If you are behind on your payments, a debt collector can contact anyone about your debt.
Truth #2
A debt collector can only contact people who have information that could help them locate you, such as your family, friends, or employer. A debt collector cannot contact anyone else about your debt, such as your neighbors or co-workers.
Myth #3
A debt collector can call you anytime they want, day or night.
Truth #3
Debt collectors can only call you between the hours of and hey also cannot call you at unreasonable time or places, such as early in the morning or late at night. If a debt collector does call you outside of these hours, it may be considered harassment and you can file a complaint with the CFPB.
Myth #4
If you are behind on your payments, a debt collector can take money out of your bank account.
Truth #4
If you owe a debt and are behind on your payments, a debt collector may be able to take money out of your bank account to pay the debt. However, the debt collector must first send you a “notice of intent to Levy” at least days before they take any money out of your account. If you need help, reach out to Chang & Diamond Bankruptcy Lawyer Group of San Diego. This notice will tell you how much money the debt collector intends to take from your account and where the money will come from.
Myth #5
A debt collector can garnish your wages if you don’t pay your debts.
Truth #5
If you owe a debt and are behind on your payments, a creditor may be able to garnish your wages in order to collect the debt. However, the creditor must first obtain a court order before they can garnish your wages. If you are being threatened with wage garnishment, you should seek legal assistance at law offices of mark l. miller to help protect your rights.
Hopefully this blog post has helped to clear up some of the myths and misconceptions about debt collectors! Remember, if you are being harassed by a debt collector, you can always file a complaint with the CFPB.