The FDCPA: Collector Rules

The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (1977) restricts what third-party debt collectors may do: no harassment, no lies, calls only between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. your time, and written validation of the debt on request.

Why it matters

Collectors count on you not knowing the rules. The two most powerful sentences in consumer credit are: send me written validation, and communicate with me only in writing. Educational reference only, not legal advice.

Key facts

• The FDCPA covers third-party collectors and debt buyers, generally not original creditors collecting their own debts (though state laws may add coverage).
• Within five days of first contact, a collector must send a written validation notice with the amount and the creditor's name.
• You have 30 days from that notice to dispute in writing; collection must pause until they verify.
• You can demand in writing that a collector stop contacting you; after that, they may only confirm or notify you of specific actions like a lawsuit.
• Violations carry statutory damages, and consumer attorneys often take FDCPA cases with no upfront fee.

In practice

1. Never confirm or pay a collection on a first call; request validation in writing first.
2. Log every call: date, time, company, what was said.
3. If contact is harassing, send a written cease-communication letter by certified mail and keep the receipt.