Fair Debt Collection Practices Act
Blake, Laramie, & Jordan
Origination- September 30, 1996
Important Elements
FDCPA prohibits collection agencies from using unfair, deceptive or abusive practices . Specific collection practices that are illegal include:
- Harass you or use oppressive practices.
- Make false statements.
- Threaten arrest.
- Give false information.
- Use unfair practices.
- Seize or threaten property.
Suggestions for Businesses & Consumers
- After the dispute letter, the collector cannot contact you.
- If you give a debt collector money to make a specific debt payment, the money must be applied to the debt you instructed.
- A debt collector can't apply your payment to a debt you believe you do not owe.