What is the FDCPA?

The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) is legislation designed to protect the consumer from unfair and illegal debt collection methods. Since 1978, this law has outlined the regulations and standards that all debt collection agencies should abide by. The act limits where and when a person can receive collection calls, as well as prohibiting illegal and harassing behaviors such as:

• Using threatening, profane or abusive language
• Making continuous collection calls to annoy the debtor
• Providing misleading or false information
• Calling any time before 8:00am or after 9:00pm

How Does it Protect Consumers?

Not only is the FDCPA meant to protect the consumer, it is also used as a measure to protect reputable collection agencies. The language in the act holds debt collectors accountable for their actions and restricts the use of dishonest collection practices such as:

• Collecting any amount other than the specified debt
• Depositing postdated checks and payments before they are marked to be collected
• Threatening to take possession of property without the intention or right to do so

To find out more about the FDCPA and read the act in detail, please visit the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

FDCPA Violations

If you believe that a collection agency has violated one of the rules mentioned above, be aware that there are other ways to stop debt collectors and report them for dishonest practices before you retain the services of an attorney. Taking direct legal action against a debt collector can be both time-consuming and expensive. Additionally, if the court finds that the case was filed in bad faith, you may be held liable for the debt collection agency's legal fees.

Learn More

Are you being contacted by a debt collections agency? View our FAQS to learn more about the debt collections process and common concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

At Convergent Outsourcing we not only uphold the standards addressed in the FDCPA, we seek to exceed them by providing exceptional customer service and support. To contact a representative with questions about your debt or to make a payment. Please give us a call at 1-800-444-8485. We also offer a simple online contact form where you can ask a question, make a complaint or request to be added to our Do Not Call List.