Generally, a debt collector cannot contact your family, neighbors, or other people about your debt unless: The debt collector is doing so to get your location information; A court has given the debt collector permission to do so; You or your attorney agreed in writing that the debt collector may contact other people.

Can a debt collector call your work?

Under the FDCPA, it’s illegal for a debt collector to come to your workplace to collect payment. However, a debt collector, like a credit card company, may call you at work, though they can’t reveal to your co-workers that they are debt collectors. To stop these calls, ask the debt collector not to contact you at work.

Can a collection agency call a friend or relative?

Collection agents often call relatives, friends, employers, or neighbors, posing as a friend or relative. However, federal law limits these types of calls. (To learn more about what collectors can and cannot do, see Illegal Debt Collection Practices .)

What are the laws for a collection agency?

Collection agency laws generally cover the scope of the agencies’ authorities, and what types of practices they can perform when engaging in collections. While these laws may vary by state, collection agencies generally cannot engage in acts that are illegal, deceptive, or fraudulent in order to collect business debts.

How can a collection agency find out where you live?

Collectors use a number of methods to find out where you live. By Margaret Reiter , Attorney Just because a collection agency calls or writes to you, don’t assume that it knows where you live, especially if you’ve moved since you transacted business with the original creditor.

Can a collection agency find my old bank account?

Banks. If you move but leave your old bank account open—even if you don’t still do business with the bank—the bank will probably have your new address and may provide it to a collection agency. Credit bureaus.