Debt Collectors & Collection Agencies

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If your debt goes to collection, for the most part the debt collector can employ all of the collection methods available to the original creditor. But some bill collectors and collection agencies can be quite aggressive. It's important to know what debt collectors and collection agencies can and cannot do, and what to do if a bill collector violates the law.

Overview Articles

Dealing With Collection Agencies FAQ
Answers to common questions about debt collection agencies.
What to Do If a Bill Collector Crosses the Line
Here's what to do if a bill collector uses abusive tactics.
Time-Barred Debts: When Collectors Cannot Sue You for Unpaid Debts
After a period of time, creditors lose the right to sue you for unpaid debts.
Debt Scavengers and Zombie Debt
Learn how to avoid the horror story of debt collection harassment over old "zombie" debt.
The New Bill Collector Tactic: Jail Time
In some states, debt collectors use tactics that might land you in jail if you don't appear for court hearings for debtor's examinations.

Illegal Debt Collection Practices

Illegal Debt Collection Practices
Learn what collectors can and cannot do under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act.
More on Illegal Debt Collection Practices Under the FDCPA
Find articles and Q&As on the FDCPA, who it applies to, and what collectors cannot do when collecting debts.

State Laws Regulating Debt Collection MORE ARTICLES

State Fair Debt Collection Laws
Visit this topic area to find state laws regulating debt collectors and creditors.

What to Expect When Your Debt Goes to Collection

What to Expect When Your Debt Goes to Collection
Learn how debt collection agencies operate.
How Collection Agencies Find You
Debt collectors use a number of methods to find out where you live.
Debt Validation
You can request that a collection agency verify the amount and validity of a debt. But you must act quickly.

Negotiating With a Debt Collection Agency

Negotiating With Collectors on Unsecured Debts
Here are some options when negotiating settlement of an unsecured debt with a collection agency.
Getting Debt Collectors to Remove Negative Information From Your Credit Report
You can negotiate with debt collection agencies to remove negative information from your credit report.
A collection agency has my debt. Can I negotiate with the original creditor?